File contains a presentation by Chief Councillor, Francis Frank, Tla-O-Qui-Aht First Nations Financial Relations between Governments. Chief Frank's presentation discusses relations between Federal and Provincial governments and First Nations, and what he thinks the is need for governments to adjust their attitude in dealing with each other. Frank discusses housing issues, and the need for governments to demonstrate trust and faith in their relationship with First Nations.

File contains a presentation by Chief Councillor, Kelly Dennis, Ohiaht Child Protection. Kelly discusses the traditional cultural approach of the Nuu-Chah-Nulth people to childcare, the breakdown of the traditional process during colonization, the impact of the residential school system, the need for self-governance, social programs in place and who administers them, and what can be improved in Mr. Dennis' view.

File contains a presentation by Chief Darrell Boissoneau that focuses on treaty violations and particularly on the Indian Act. He calls on the Commission to help begin the healing and to ensure funding for the essential programs that are necessary to help Aboriginal people reclaim their culture. Following the presentation is a question-and-answer session with the Commissioners.

File contains a presentation by Chief Edmond Metatawabin describing the arrival of missionaries in the James Bay and the missions and residential schools that were constructed. He describes the St. Anne's Residential School Reunion and Conference in August 1992 as the beginning of healing for those former students in attendance. He urges the Commission to look at the findings of the Conference and to help address the healing of the survivors in his community and throughout Canada. A question-and-answer session with the Commissioners follows the presentation.

File contains a presentation by Chief Edmund Metatawabin focusing on Aboriginal self-government. He states that local First Nations government must be empowered first to oversee health and family services, education, public works and security, police protection, housing, and other issues relating to First Nations on a local level. Once that structure is in place can Aboriginal leaders call for self-government on a national level. Cecilia Scott, youth representative, speaks briefly about the importance of education for Aboriginal youth.

File contains a presentation by Chief Eli Mandamin relating to the treaty relationship between Anishinabe First Nations and the federal government.

This file contains a presentation given by Chief Fred Fraser stating that "the Bill C-31 citizens of the Tsuu T'ina Nation are a direct result of discriminatory legislation and creates a special consideration for the federal government to give official recognition of the Tsuu T'ina Bill C-31 Band as equal and distinct.

File contains a presentation by Chief Fred Holmes. Holmes discusses his views on the situation in Upper Nicola and the "environment vs the environmentalist." Holmes discusses the importance of self-education and recognition of key issues including education, land claims, political organizations, and immigration. Following the presentation Commissioners Dussault and Chartrand thank Holmes for his thoughts.

File contains a presentation by Gilbert Anderson that describes the people of his First Nations as being "a little island by outselves." Anderson describes the events leading to the formation of the reserve and 1958, its surrender. Anderson states that descendants of the original Michel Band still select leaders and maintain social ties, and the Band's goal now is to secure a land base. A question-and-answer session with the Commissioners follows the presentation.

File contains a presentation by Chief Gordon Auger relating to a land claim which the Bigstone First Nation had to the Office of Native Claims in 1989, and was revised and resubmitted in August 1991. Auger calls on the Commission to help get the land claim settled. Following the presentation is a question-and-answer session with the Commissioners.

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 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.

File contains a presentation by Chief James Henderson and Steve Fobister relating to the negative effects of the Rainy Lake dam in Ontario, built between 1905 and 1909. Their First Nations fishing and hunting grounds were destroyed by flooding and they believe that proper compensation has never been given to their First Nations. The presenters also address the complete absence of telephone service on their First Nations, and call on the Commission to assist in negotiations with Bell Canada. Following the presentation is a brief question-and-answer session with the Commissioners.

This file contains a presentation by Chief Jean-Charles Pietacho and Sylvie Basile titled "Learning to Sail in Troubled Waters." It touches on youth suicide, the forced relocation in the 1960s of the Montagnais community of Saint-Augustin (Pakuashipi) to the Lower North Shore, and the despair and hopelessness that Aboriginal people experience "with the marginalization that their cultures and lifestyles have suffered for decades." A question-and-answer session with the Commissioners follows the presentation.

File contains a presentation by Chief Jim Badger focusing on negotiations with the Natural Sources Conservation Board, training and employment programs, business support programs and disability programs. Following the presentation is a question-and-answer session with the Commissioners.

File contains a presentation by Chief Kowaintco Shackelly, Nooaitch Indian Band. Shackelly discusses the Charlottetown Accord, its package dealing with Aboriginal issues, its defeat by referendum, self-governance, language concerns, women's issues (including Bill C-31), and a variety of health concerns especially the need for more Aboriginal health practitioners and participation in the system. Following her presentation Commissioners Dussault, Chartrand and Chief Don Moses, engage Shackelly in a conversation about some of the issues highlighted.

File contains a presentation by Chief Lindsay Cyr and Felix Musqua addressing the failure of the Charlottetown Accord and the position that their organization will still pursue; "the inherent right to nationhood, self-government, jurisdiction, systems of laws, resource rights, distinct languages, cultures and values." Cyr then states that his organization will table its documentation later in the year. Following the presentation is a question-and-answer session with the Commissioners.

File contains a presentation by Chief Lorne Waditaka of the Wahpeton Dakota First Nation. Waditka discusses the history of his people and its contacts with other Dakota, Lakota, and Nakoda groups. He discusses the First Nations participation in both local organizations like the Prince Albert Tribal Council alongside the Cree, and in larger organizations of Dakota people on a province wide, and international basis. Wakitawa also discusses some of the distinctions between "Sioux" peoples and future aspirations for unity.

File contains a presentation by Chief Norm Wesley of the Moose Cree First Nation provides a brief history of the Moose Factory area, mentioning in particular the fur trade and the Hudson's Bay Company. Wesley states that Aboriginal peoples can't go back to their original way of life and calls upon the Elders in the community to keep the traditional ways alive by sharing their knowledge with the youth.

File contains a presentation by Chief Pascal Bighetty and Darryl Linkletter, Junior Chief, representing the Missinipi people of the Churchill River area. Bighetty describes systems of indigenous self-government in other countries and the limits put on band councils by the Canadian government. He states that if South Africa can "invite the First Nations of Africa to sit side by side in the Parliament," then Canada should have Aboriginal Members of Parliament in the near future. Following the presentation is a discussion with the Commissioners.

File contains a presentation by Chief Paul Sam, Shuswap Indian Band. Sam discusses the struggle for Aboriginal self-governance in Canada and his thoughts on the recently defeated Charlottetown Accord, as well as the problems he sees as being inherent in the system.

File contains a presentation by Chief Peter Quaw focusing on economic development, employment, and self-government that has been taking place on that First Nations since the 1980s. He calls on the Commission to ensure that funding continues so that conditions on his First Nations will improve.

File contains a presentation by Chief Robert Michell, spokesman for the elders of Stellat'en First Nation, focusing on the diminishing role of elders in his community. He states this is due to the government programs and policies that are in place. The Elders wish to be involved in the community again and Michell requests a meeting between the Elders and Commissioners.

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.

This file contains a presentation given by Chief Strator Crowfoot relating to Aboriginal self-government and the Alternative Funding Arrangement Agreement. Crowfoot asks the Commission to look at different ways of approaching how government deals with First Nations and how they can bring together the resources on a global basis to work with Aboriginal groups. Crowfoot introduces the next speaker, Fred Breaker, Councillor, Siksika Nation.

File contains a presentation by Chris Axworthy relating to his constituency that encompasses a large Aboriginal population made up of status Indians living off-reserve, as well as non-status Indians and Metis people. He is aware of the feeling of disfranchisement of urban Aboriginal people, the need for self-government, and for more funding for Aboriginal post-secondary education. Following the presentation is a question-and-answer session with the Commissioners.

File contains a presentation by Christine Gibson, Co-ordinator fo the Mi'kmaq Child Development Project. Gibson discusses the general child care situation in Canada, in Nova Scotia, and amongst Aboriginal Canadians. Gibson then discusses the specific operation of her project and makes a variety of recommendations for its enhancement. Following the presentation Commissioners Erasmus and Robinson discuss the project and related child care issues with Gibson.

File contains a presentation by Clarence Apsassin, Blueberry River Reserve. He relates a brief history of Aboriginal people in North America from before 1492 down to the present day. Following this he discusses some of the history of Treaty 8 people, and his own work with various Aboriginal organizations. Apsassin makes a series of recommendations that Aboriginal governments be given more jurisdiction over their own affairs, and control over their own land and resources.

This file contains a presentation by Clarence Daniels relating to the achievement of bilateral arrangements with the federal government that would recognize health as a treaty and Aboriginal right, resulting in the elimination of provincial responsibility in Aboriginal health care. Daniels feels his idea is a "visionary type of concept." Daniels then introduces Morris Merick, director, Dakota Ojibway Child and Family Services.

File contains a presentation by Claude Petit expressing frustration with the ability of his organization to offer services and organize events for Aboriginal veterans without funding. Following the presentation is a question-and-answer session with the Commissioners.

File contains a presentation by Claudine Louie relating to Aboriginal post-secondary education in Canada. Samson Cree First Nation falls under the government's Post-Secondary Student Support Program, and Louie questions the fairness of the program regarding Aboriginal students. Following the presentation is a brief question-and-answer session with the Commissioners.

File contains a presentation by Clifton (Francis) Simon, resident of Big Cove, New Brunswick. Simon touches on a number of areas of concern for him: self-government, economic development, discrimination against Aboriginal women, justice and education. Following the presentation is a discussion with the Commissioners.

File contains a presentation by Colin Wasacase and Josephine Sandy relating to the work of their organization in providing culturally sensitive support for Anishinabe families in need. A list of recommendations includes the recognition of the federal government of rights and responsibility to provide support to families in accordance with Anishinabe custom, and recognition of the government's trust responsibility to provide adequate financial resources for the presenters' organization to undertake this work. Following the presentation is a question-and-answer session with the Commissioners.

File contains a presentation by Colleen Wassegijig and Simon Paul. Wassegijig discusses the history of Aboriginal peoples in Canada with respect to formal education systems, and some of the problems that has created which now must be overcome. Simon Paul, a Dene man originally from Northern Saskatchewan, discusses Aboriginal education programs in Scarborough, Ontario for First Nations and Métis residents.

This file contains a presentation by Colleen Wilkinson, Simon Brown and Mike Dufresne relating to the Ranglin Project, an undeveloped nickel area 60 km west of the village of Cangatsujouat, Quebec. Approximately 20% of the Ranglin site workforce is Inuit and Falconbridge seeks to increase those numbers. Difficulties were encountered with the Inuit in terms of entering a work culture vs. continuing with their traditional lifestyle and being away from their families.

This file contains a presentation by Connie Laurin-Bowie and Bob Walker focusing on programs and services for Aboriginal disabled persons in Canada living on- and off-reserve. They cite research that Aboriginals living on reserves are almost twice as likely as the average Canadian to have a disability. People who have a disability are economically disadvantaged and vulnerable, and the presenters call upon the Commission to ensure that funding continues for programs to help both disadvantaged Aboriginals and non-Aboriginals.

File contains a presentation by Wayne Etches, Joe Scout, and Tom Dixon, Creditors of Kainai Industries. The presenters discuss unemployment in the Kainai (Blood) Nation, Kainai Industries organizational history as a constructor of modular housing, its' failure as a business, and the need for its' resurrection. Following the presentation Commissioner Georges Erasmus discusses some of the issues raised with the presenters, after which is a closing prayer to adjourn the day's sitting of the Commission.

This file contains a presentation by Crystal King, a Mississauga band member of the New Credit First Nation, relating to the history of the Ojibwa in southern Ontario, the arrival of European explorers, the signing of treaties and present-day membership and facilities on the New Credit First Nation.

This file contains a presentation by Cyndy Desmeules-Bertolin, Fred Anderson and Stan Plante focusing on the effects of funding cuts to their organization. The group calls for the transfer of existing program dollars to Metis institutions. They also call for a Round Table to discuss the needs and provide support to Metis children and families. A question-and-answer session with the Commissioners follows the presentation.

This file contains a presentation by members of the "Making Adult Decisions" (M.A.D.) Youth Group of Kahnawake discussing problems relating to race relations between Aboriginals and non-Aboriginals, and relations with the outside police forces, RCMP and Surete du Quebec, that patrol the Kahnawake area. The group has conducted cultural exchanges with Canadian non-Aboriginal youth and with youth from former Soviet republics. M.A.D.

File contains a presentation by Dan Haggerty, President and CEO, Robert Hartog, Chairman, and Claude McCabe, Vice-President Canadian Native Programs, Canadian Executive Services Organization. Haggerty discusses the Canadian Executive Services Organization, a non-profit, non-governmental organization with the mandate to provide volunteers as consultants to support the development and management of the Aboriginal businesses and communities in Canada, and of the business and social sectors of developing countries around the world.

File contains a presentation by Daniel Daniels and Delilah Young speaking about the need for concerned adults becoming involved in the lives of Aboriginal youth. Without positive adult role models, Aboriginal youth may fall prey to alcohol, drug and solvent abuse and youth centres would allow Aboriginal youth to spend free time constructively. A discussion with the Commissioners follow the three The Pas Youth Project Committee speakers.

File contains an individual presentation by Danny Henry who relates his experiences as an athlete and how it helped him be a role model for others. Henry does not see the same possibilities available for his children and asks the Commission for more sports funding. He draws attention to the numerous national and international Aboriginal sporting events that have been established in the last 20-25 years and asks that government funding of sport activities be increased for Canadian Aboriginal youth.

File contains a presentation by Danny Pottle, representative, St. John's Native Friendship Centre. He introduces two women from the Friendship Centre as co-presenters. An overview and brief history of the Centre with available services and programs are presented. Among other points, Pottle recommends that the work of interpreting be recognized by government agencies. Following the presentation is a discussion with the Commissioners.

File contains a brief individual presentation by Danny Whetung relating to the White Paper, described by Whetung as "a systematic description...for the cultural and racial genocide of the First Nations people of this country." He commends the Commissioners for coming to Esquimalt Reserve and knows they "have come with an open heart," and hopes that examination of the White Paper by the Commission may lead to positive changes for Aboriginal people.

File contains a presentation by Darlene Spiedel, Dakota Nations of Canada, Saskatchewan Cultural Centre. Spidel presentes from "two points of view, one from the Dakota/Lakota Nations and the other from the Saskatchewan Indian Cultural Centre."

File contains a presentation by Darrell Bretton, First Nations Freedom Network. Bretton discusses his organization which he says is "a unique agency which deals with the transition from incarceration to reintegration of our people into overall society...developing a network of aboriginal groups and professionals to address the widespread societal problem of aboriginal recidivism."

File contains a presentation made by Darren Deschambeault on Aboriginal language preservation and history preservation in general. Also contained are comments and questions from the assembled Commissioners and those of the Commissioner-of-the-Day.