Land Claims

This file consists of a presentation by Chief Gordon Peters focusing primarily on the land claims process and negotiating with the Ontario provincial government, and the Charlottetown Accord. Peters also discusses the negative effects of residential schools upon Aboriginal people and the efforts being made to assist abuse survivors. A question-and-answer session with the Commissioners follows the presentation.

File contains a presentation by Chief Hammond Dick relating to land claims and self-government for the Kaska Nation. He states that the Kaskas would agree only to an offer that provides exclusive control over lands selected for use by their people. The Kaskas also want to play a significant role in the management of renewable and non-renewable resources on their traditional lands. Following the presentation is a question-and-answer session with the Commissioners.

File contains a presentation by Chief Harold Turner discussing seven issues that affect First Nations people: self-government, treaties, natural resources and Aboriginal title to land, economic development, taxation, education and First Nations government financial concerns. Following the presentation is a discussion with the Commissioners.

The file contains a presentation by Chief James Firth of the Inuvik Gwi'chin Council. Chief Firth delivers a presentation on the history of Inuvik including the relocation of people by the government from nearby Aklavik to Inuvik; alcoholism and related social and health problems; the need to prepare for future resource development; the need for cross-cultural co-operation and mutual respect; some of the goals of the Council; the relation of self-esteem to quality of life; and the need for a "renewed political arrangement with the Government of Canada."

File contains a presentation by Chief James Ross of the Gwich'in people. Chief Ross delivers some remarks on the Gwich'in Final Agreement (a land claim) and introduces Diane Petersen and George Nurysoo who will present after him.

File contains a presentation by Chief Joe Nicholas of the Columbia Lake Indian Band. Nicholas highlights some of his concerns notably in the land management and economic sphere, and argues that First Nations governments must be given direct control over their particular spheres in order for economic and social progress to take place.

File contains a presentation by Chief Josephine Shottana of the Tobacco Plains Indian Band. Shottana discusses self-governance issues including education, health, and justice in a brief presentation entitled "Rebuilding Relationships."

File contains a presentation by Chief Ray Harris expressing concern with the distinct society status that Quebec enjoys and questions why Aboriginal peoples do not have the same recognition. Harris believes that "our Indian constitution needs to be entrenched" but says that a basic form of self-government with informal constitutions has worked in many small First Nations in British Columbia for years. He calls upon the Canadian government to also limit provincial jurisdiction relating to wildlife, conservation and forestry, among other areas.

File contains a presentation by Chief Robert Charlie and Edward John focusing on substandard housing, land claims and the role of Elders, all relating to their First Nations. Following the presentation is a question-and-answer session with the Commissioners.

File contains a presentation by Chief Robert Pasco of the Nlaka'pamux Tribal Council. Pasco, Chief of the Oregon Jack Creek Indian Band, discusses the history of his Nlaka'pamux Nation and its efforts to create a strong centralized government in the 1870s, as well as the suppression of this movement by the federal government. Pasco goes on to relate the desire of his people to have a written Constitution based on their traditions and to engage in a government to government relationship with the federal government. Pasco also discusses ongoing land claims and fisheries disputes.

File contains a presentation by Chief Roger Augustine of the Union of New Brunswick Indians. Augustine delivers a presentation on the history of his people, Constitutional issues, Treaties, self-governance, land claims, and related issues. Following this he discusses land claims and justice models with Commissioner Erasmus.

File contains a presentation by Chief Roger Kaye that touches on a number of subjects, including education and youth, housing, justice, land claims and a proposed museum in Old Crow. A question-and-answer session with the Commissioners follows the presentation.

File contains a presentation by Clara Schinkel and Peter Sidney, Tagish Governance Society. Schinkel describes the history of the Tagish people and their community (including the seizure of their reserve lands by the government), and makes specific requests to the Commission in terms of assistance, self-governance, education, and land claims. Sidney and Schinkel discuss some of the issues raised with the assembled Commissioners.

File contains a presentation by Cliff Wright. Following an introduction by facilitator Murray Hamilton, an employee of the Gabriel Dumont Institute, Wright discusses his role as Treaty Commissioner in Saskatchewan and what that entails. Wright also discusses land allocation practices in in the province.

File contains a presentation by Counsellor Cy Standing of the Wahpeton First Nation. After some introductory remarks in Dakota (not provided), Standing gives a brief summary of his personal history.

File contains a presentation by Councillor Wayne Nicholas, of the Tobique First Nation. Nicholas discusses the history of his people and offers his opinion that self-government and self-determination are essential goals today. Following his presentation is a discussion between Nicholas and Commissioner Erasmus on the Tobique land claim.

File contains a presentation by Dave Barron of the Pacific Metis Federation. Barron discusses the story of his people, their neglect by government, his views on Bill C-31 and how the government has divided Aboriginal peoples starting at the family level. Barron concludes by recommending that "some form of legislation be enacted within the near future to release our people from the bonds of Bill C-31, if they should desire." Following the presentation is a discussion between Barron and Commissioner Erasmus on the ideas raised in the presentation.

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 includes a presentation by Dennis Perron, MNA for Duplessis, and Opposition (Parti Quebecois) Critic on Aboriginal Affairs. Perron delivers an address on the relationship of the province of Quebec, and particularly past PQ governments to the Aboriginal peoples of the province. Perron stresses the importance of good relations, and claims that Quebec has the best record in Canada with regard to the treatment of Aboriginal peoples. Perron also discusses land rights and cultural questions.

The file contains a presentation by Dick Hill who discusses the administrative, economic, and demographic composition of Inuvik, Northwest Territories. Hill discusses its' ethnic composition (1/3 First Nations, 1/3 Inuit, 1/3 other), its' administrative and institutional apparatus, and related issues in response to questioning from Commissioners Rene Dussault, Allan Blakeney, Grace Blake, and Mary Sillett. Land claims and economic development are also discussed.

File contains a presentation by Chief Tim Restoule of the Dokis First Nation. Chief Restoule discusses land rights, hunting and fishing, economic development, education and health concerns. Following the presentation the assembled Commissioners discuss some of the issues raised with Chief Restoule.

File contains a presentation by Don Ryan focusing on Aboriginal rights and title. He gives the Commission documents that his organization wants recorded in the official record for the purposes of the Commission. He introduces Herb George, speaking for the Wet'suwet'en people.

This file contains a transcript of a part of a portion of a sitting of the Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples at Prince George, British Columbia. This part includes a presentation by Donald Thompson regarding treatment of Metis with hunting and land laws. Questions from the assembled commissioners are also included with the answers that were provided.

This file contains a presentation by Doug Maracle and William Tooshkewig relating to the Constitutional Process of 1980-1981 that eventually saw Section 35 entrenched in the Canadian Constitution. The presenters feel that Aboriginal people "will no longer accept more broken treaties and will not accept the continuation of the status quo." A question-and-answer session with the Commissioners follows the presentation.

File contains a presentation by Ed Bianchi from Friends of the Lubicon. Bianchi discusses the situation facing the Lubicon Cree in Alberta, and their struggle for land and resource rights. Following the presentation Commissioners Wilson, Sillet, and Blakeney discuss the issues raised with Bianchi.

This file contains a presentation by Edward J. Cross whose group's mandate is to preserve, maintain and promote Kanien'kehaka language, culture and tradition and to provide the community with the tools for its survival as a people. After federal government funding for the committee was frozen and eventually cut back over the last five years, Cross calls on the Commission to help establish a renewed relationship with Aboriginal peoples and the federal government, based on mutual respect and a willingness to solve funding concerns.

File contains a presentation by Elder Moses Smith of the Nuu-Chah-Nulth people. Smith discusses his people historical and traditional society from a standpoint of governance and the family. Commissioner Erasmus asks Smith if there are any special concerns he has and Smith replies by discussing the importance of having an economic land base to his people.

File contains a presentation by Elmer Herman. Herman discusses his work for the Metis Nation in Alberta as an advising counsellor, his views on Bill C-31, and the need for a Metis landbase. Following his presentation Commissioners Blakeney and Chartrand discuss the issues raised therein with Herman and previous presenter Betsy Brooks.

File contains a presentation by Emile Trip-de-Roche. Trip-de-Roche discusses the mandate of the Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples and her personal views on it. Trip-de-Roche advances a critical view of the Commission's mandate discussing such issues as natural resources, parks, burial grounds, and land claims. Following the presentation is a discussion between Commissioners Chartrand and Blakeney with Trip-de-Roche regarding the Commission and its mandate, followed by an adjournment of the days proceedings.

File contains a presentation by Eric Morris describing the negative effects on his community of generations-old social issues and states that his community is now mainly alcohol- and drug-free. He states that the traditional Clan system of government and the tribal justice system in place at Teslin has been working effectively with non-Aboriginal government and justice systems and feels this co-operative effort could be duplicated on every First Nation in Canada. A question-and-answer session with the Commissioners follows the presentation.

File contains a presentation by Erminio Pucci of the City of Prince Rupert. Pucci, presenting on behalf of the Mayor and City Council, discusses British Columbia land claims negotiations and the city's stance on them. Following the presentation Commissioners Paul Chartrand and Bertha Wilson discuss land claims negotiations in British Columbia with Pucci.

File contains a presentation by Ethel Blondin, MP, who briefly discusses a multitude of concerns relating to Aboriginal, Metis and Dene peoples. She calls for a national youth conference on issues such as AIDS education, substance abuse and single parent families. Following the presentation is a discussion with the Commissioners.

This file contains a presentation by four members of the Lubicon Settlement Commission of Review. The Commission of Review was organized in [1992] and launched by Ray Martin, Leader of the Opposition, Government of Alberta. Their mandate was to investigate, compare, assess and report on the presentation of the Lubicons to the two levels of government and to report to the three parties and to the public. The Commission of Review in March 1993 tabled their report before the public with the Lubicons present. Both levels of government were not present despite repeated invitations.

This file contains a presentation by Fenton Scott that first states: "The Prospectors of Canada and their predecessors have lived in harmony and mutual respect with Canadians of native ancestry for nearly 400 years.

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 brief presentation by Frank Saligo, Mayor, Teslin, Yukon. He provides hand-out materials for the Commission and briefly mentions the need for agreements relating to community needs and infrastructure, and for continued talks relating to land claims and self-government. Following the presentation is a question-and-answer swith the Commissioners and Chief David Keenan.

This file contains a presentation given by Fred Breaker discussing a number of subjects, including building a high school on Siksika First Nation, land claims and self-governemnt. Breaker and Chief Strator Crowfoot answer questions from the Commissioners after the presentation.

File contains a presentation by Gabe Hardisty, Councillor, Wrigley Dene Band. He speaks of life in the North pre-contact and states that "we had our own government in the past...if we didn't have our own government, we wouldn't be here today." Hardisty hopes that this Commission will listen to Aboriginal people and act on its recommendations. He then introduces his uncle, Mr. Antoch, who was alive at the time of the signing of Treaty 11 in 1921. Mr. Antoch's father, Eli Antonche, was involved in the treaty negotiations. Following the presentation is a discussion with the Commissioners.

File contains a presentation by Garfield Warren suggesting that "justice demands the recognition and preservation of the integrity of the Aboriginal nations." Warren seeks middle ground between the Canadian government and Aboriginal leaders relating to land claims and self-government and hopes the Commission can influence this issue. Following the presentation is a discussion with the Commission members.

File contains an a presentation by Chief George Desjarlais of the West Moberly First Nation. He discusses the history of his people and their entrance into Treaty Eight. Desjarlais states that the government has not lived up to its end of the Treaty, which was intended to provide for peaceful co-existence and shared land management by the two peoples. Following the presentation Commissioner Erasmus discusses some of the points raised with Desjarlais.

File contains a presentation by George Saddleman. Saddleman welcomes the Commission on behalf of the Nicola Valley Tribal Council, then proceeds to give an organizational breakdown of the organization and discuss its institutional history. Saddleman discusses issues facing the Tribal Council's members such as water rights, fishing and hunting rights, and land claims. Following the presentation Commissioners Dussault and Chartrand thank Saddleman for his presentation.

File contains a presentation by Gerald Morin, MIchele Harding and Clem Chartier covering a wide range of topics, including the aftermath of the Charlottetown Accord, the Metis Nation Accord, land claims and self-government. Harding also represents the Education and Employment Women's Working Agenda group. Her brief presentation discusses adult basic education and the high dropout rate of Aboriginal and Metis youth in high school. Following the presentation is a question-and-answer session with the Commissioners.

This file contains a presentation by Gerry Pascal and Charlotte Debbane discussing Aboriginal history, culture and spirituality; the Two-Row Wampum, treaties and sovreignty. Debbane's remarks focus on violence against women and she states that women need to be at the forefront to end the violence against women. A question-and-answer session with the Commissioners follows the presentation.

File contains a presentation by Gertrude Partridge. Partridge suggests that two important sites (a beach on Panmeer Island where the Micmac people harvested shellfish traditionally, and an area at Gaspereau of significance to the Sark family) be purchased by the provincial government and given to the Prince Edward Island Native Council. Following her comments Commissioner Georges Erasmus makes some closing remarks, and a closing prayer by John Joe Sark concludes the days' sitting of the Royal Commission.

File contains a presentation by Gilbert Cheechoo focusing on the loss of Aboriginal culture. He is frustrated that his years of service with numerous Aboriginal organizations have done little to help. Cheechoo feels the Canadian Government needs to abandon the broken system it has in place and settle the land claims and self-government issues. Following the presentation is a lengthy question-and-answer session with the Commissioners.

File contains a presentation by Gordon Ahenakew representing the treaty Aboriginal veterans of Saskatchewan. He recalls stories of Aboriginal veterans returning to Saskatchewan and not receiving financial, educational or agricultural benefits that were given to non-Aboriginals. Following the presentation is a question-and-answer session with the Commissioners.

File contains a presentation by Gordon Peters, Regional Chief, Chiefs of Ontario. Peters discusses his organization and its goals in representing the First Nations of Ontario including self-governance, the need to administer their own social services programs, land claims in terms of reclamation of what was lost, and problems with intergovernmental relations. Following the presentation are questions and comments by Comissioners Erasmus, Robinson, Blakeney, and Wilson which Peters addresses.

File contains a presentation by Graham Tuplin, Tom Conners and Brenda Leslie focusing on Aboriginal treatment in the criminal justice system and on-going land claims negotiations with the Canadian government. A question-and-answer session with the Commissioners follows the presentation.

File contains a presentation by Harold Joe. He discusses land claims in the area and his own familiy's participation in the land rights struggle. Joe also refers to a legal paper he has given to the Commissioners. Commissioners Chief Percy Joe and Dussault thank Harold Joe for his contribution.

File contains a presentation by Harry Baikie focusing on economic development in the Happy Valley-Goose Bay region. He discusses the Trans-Labrador Highway, the industry of pilot training, the resolution of land claims in Labrador, and development of a forestry industry and hydro power. Following the discussion is a question-and-answer session with the Commissioners.