Discusses history and culture of First Nations groups including the Coast Salish, Nlaka’pamux, Ts'ilhqot'in Secwepemc, Okanagan, Stl’atl’imx, Wet’Suwet’en, Sekani, and Dakelh First Nations.
International Journal of Circumpolar Health, vol. 65, no. 4, 2006, pp. 347-356
Description
Argues that federal institutions have created systemic sociocultural problems and there is a need for community-based intervention strategies to promote cultural healing.
File contains an individual presentation by Ann Bayne that first provides a history of the Kaska First Nations and the Liard Indian Band. Bayne describes her Band's struggle with a referendum addressing a hereditary system or elected system in determining the position of Chief. She believes that residents should have a choice in determining their leadership. Bayne also discusses abolishing the Indian Act, the need for personal development programs and calls for more treatment centres for substance abuse. Following the presentation is a discussion with Commissioner Allan Blakeney.
File contains a presentation by Francois Paulette. He discusses his background as a Dene Chief and residential school student, his work with addictions, and his ideas on Treaty 11 and what it means for the Dene people in terms of rights and responsibilities. Paulette also discusses the federal government's extinguishment policy and his interpretation of it. Following the presentation Paulette discusses some of the issues raised with the assembled Commissioners.
File contains a presentation by Charlie Thompson, President of hte Port Alberni Friendship Centre. Thompson tells the history of his people, the problems caused by colonialism and the government's approach, his personal experience with residential schools, some issues of self-governance, and the story of his particular Friendship Centre. Following the presentation is a discussion between Thompson and Commissioners Erasmus and Robinson on the challenges facing urban Aboriginals.