File contains a presentation by Dawna LeBlanc expressing concern for the acceleratred rate at which Aboriginal languages are becoming extinct. The death of community elders plays a large part in the elimination of languages today. She states that "language has a direct bearing on how we see ourselves as a people and our role in self-government, on land claims and our claim to a distinct society." Following the presentation is a question-and-answer session with the Commissioners.
File contains a presentation by John Turner. Turner presents on behalf of the Mushkegowuk Traditional Harvesters. Turner outlines three reasons why it is becoming increasingly difficult to make a living off the land: the activities of animal rights groups who oppose trapping, the activities of sport hunting groups who oppose subsistence rights to hunt, and the development of hydroelectric projects which negatively impact habitat. Turner then goes on to discuss how Aboriginal people have increasingly adopted European values and look with disdain upon trapping as a career choice.
File contains a presentation by Paul Hogan. Hogan discusses his personal views on a variety of issues facing Aboriginal people. These include education, urban issues, self-governance, governmental relations, land rights, language concerns, and the Indian Act. Following Hogan's presentation Commissioners Erasmus and Chartrand discuss some of the issues raised with him.
File contains a presentation by Ron Swain of the Southern Ontario Metis and Aboriginal Association focusing on Metis self-government. He provides a brief history of the Metis in Canada. Swain states that the Metis are recognized as Aboriginal people in the Canadian Constitution, but do not have any negotiated rights. He introduces the next speaker, Sheilagh Chief.
File contains a presentation by Ted Harlson. Harlson discusses individual rights and why he thinks they must be absolute for a successful application of self-governance to Aboriginal peoples. Harlson presents a philosophical paper outlining why individual rights are important, and what he views as the dangers of collectivism. Following the presentation are comments by Commissioners Chartrand and Dussault.
File contains a presentation by Vern Cheechoo. Cheechoo discusses the diversity of people in the Moose Factory area (both in terms of Aboriginal groups, and non-Aboriginals) making various distinctions, and stating that the inherent right to self-government comes from a relationship with the territory itself. Cheechoo also discusses the need to acknowledge diversities and begin to "cherish and begin to give honour to each other because of our distinctiveness."
File contains a presentation by Jerome Kennedy and Tara Johnson of the Urban Native Parents Association. Kennedy discusses the historical background of Aboriginal-Non-Aboriginal relations in Canada and related educational concerns. Johnson discusses the importance of Aboriginal language rights and education. Following the presentations Commissioners Chartrand and Erasmus discuss some of the issues raised with the two presenters.
File contains opening remarks by Ruth Skead of Raw Portage, Ontario. Skead relates how the way of life for her First Nation has changed over her life time, and the importance of learning about her culture as a way to survive.
American Indian Culture and Research Journal, vol. 30, no. 2, 2006, pp. 63-84
Description
Analysis of the inititiatives by the Tutelo of the Six Nations Reserve at Grand River, Ontario to protect their identity and culture amid the Great League of the Iroquois Nations in 1934-35.