Oratory Skills & Practises

File contains remarks by Bernice Hammersmith, Secretary, Saskatchewan Metis Society. Hammersmith describes some problems facing her organization.

File contains a presentation by Bernice Sheehan expressing concern with status classifications of Aboriginal people: on reserve, off reserve, status, non-status and Metis. Metis as a group are not recognized by the Newfoundland provincial government, and as a result are denied services that recognized Metis receive in other provinces. Sheehan hopes the Commission will recommend provincial recognition to Newfoundland Metis to bring them in line with other groups. Following the presentation is a discussion with the Commission members.

File contains an presentation by Bertha Clar representing the recently-opened Athabasca Native Friendship Centre. She speaks about a variety of issues such as minimal funding for Friendship Centres, bingo as an inreliable source of funding, the Canadian Constitution and discrimination against women. Following the presentation is a question-and-answer session with the Commissioners.

File contains a presentation by Bertha Dixon, secondary post-graduate student, expressing concern over the lack of Aboriginal teachers in post-secondary educational institutions. She believes that a lack of respect between Aboriginal students and non-Aboriginal teachers creates a poor learning environment. Following the presentation is a question-and-answer session with the Commissioners.

File contains a presentation by Betsy Brooks, President, Metis Nation Local 1935. Brooks discusses the Metis local in Fort McMurray and some of its challenges including the lack of an administration building and funding concerns. Following the presentation Betsy discusses some of these issues with Commissioners Chartrand and Blakeney.

File contains a presentation by Betty Collicott, Mayor of Fort McMurray. Collicott discusses her views on the Commission, and the ommission of municipal government's from its mandate. Collicott then expounds upon why she thinks municipal governments are very important, and some of her concerns regarding local Aboriginal issues including neglect of the Metis population, homelessness, delivery of services, and family breakdown.

File contains a presentation by Councillor Beverly Waditaka, Councillor of the Wahpeton Band. Waditaka discusses education on the Wahpeton First Nation at the elementary level, then goes on the discuss Daktoa language and problems with language retention on reserve. Waditaka discusses how the Dakota believe that post-secondary education is an inherent right. She then goes on to discuss women's issues such as Bill C-31.

File contains a presentation by Bill Riddell and Leah Inutiq, members of Tuvvik, a committee of the Baffin Regional Council that delivers alcohol and drug counselling programs in Iqaluit. They express concern that social programs are being funded as a result of "political decisions that are popular and are likely to result in re-election." There is no longevity with social programs which ultimately harm the people they are trying to help. They also state concerns with the justice system. Following the presentation is a discussion with the commissioners.

File contains a presentation by Brad Enge, a 17-year veteran of the RCMP. He believes that "a Canadianized version of the Australian-made Anunga rule would not inhibit the police investigation process, permitting First Nations people access to a legally trained and educated resident prior to the interrogative process. It will add credence to the legitimacy of the Canadian criminal justice system." A question-and-answer session with the Commissioners follows the presentation.

File contains a presentation by Brenda Small. Small, a member of the Mocreebec community (originally from what is now Quebec) near Moose Factory. Small discusses what she views as the plight of Aboriginal women, and the need for them to have the courage to speak out about the social problems that afflict their communities. Small also stresses the need for Aboriginal men to take responsibility for their actions and help speak out against domestic violence and abuse.

File contains a presentation by Brian Cook. Cook discusses the need to incorporate Aboriginal history into school curriculums, the importance of having a land base, the Indian Act, the lack of an economic base for the reserve system, and problems with the justice system. Much of Cook's presentation deals with systemic racism. Following the presentation is a discussion between Cook and the Commissioners on the issues he has raised.

File contains a presentation by Brian Lee relating primarily to the Canadian Constitution process and to present-day concerns on the Ermineskin First Nation at Hobbema. Lee introduces Carol Wildcat.

File contains a presentation by Brian Thorne relating to the destruction of the Aboriginal family and how to restore pride in family and in one's self. Thorne believes that the restoration of Aboriginal culture, values and beliefs are essential is Aboriginal self-government is to succeed.

File contains a presentation by Brian Williams focusing on social issues in education. He states that each Aboriginal community must have an economic base that provides adequate training that results in jobs and financial security for its residents. He also believes that each community's land base must be acknowledged by the Canadian and British Columbia governments and calls on the Commission to ensure continuing funding to ensure the preservation of the Gitksan culture and language, and all Aboriginal languages.

File contains a presentation by Bryan Pearson. Pearson discusses problems faced by Inuit communities in the fields of health and education. Pearson also discusses the cultural gap between Inuit and Euro-Canadians and the problems that can cause in implementing social policy. Following this presentation the Commission's sitting for the day is officially ended with a closing prayer.

File contains a presentation by Bunt Cranmer, United Native Nations, Local 144. Cranmer discusses his organization which he describes as "part of the B.C. body of the United Native Nations and Ernie Gray is our acting president. And the United Native Nations B.C. body is part of the Native Council of Canada. And these two organizations are the lobbying force for the off-reserve, status, non-status, Inuit and Metis people."

File contains a brief presentation by Calvin Claxton, Band Administrator, Sachem Band, focusing on band funding, especially for small bands such as Sachem. He states that he is primarily an observer for the Sachem Band and is grateful for the opportunity to speak before the Commission.

File contains a presentation by Cara Currie focusing on proposed Aboriginal self-government. Currie states that Aboriginal people do not want to be assimilated into society, and that self-government should be defined by Aboriginal people, not the Canadian government. She introduces the next speaker, Violet Soosay.

File contains a presntation by Carol Gauthier relating to post-secondary education. She calls for more funding for Aboriginal post-education and in particular, for more comprehensive graduate studies. Gauthier briefly discusses the "Indian residential school syndrome" and also calls for funding and resources to 'complete the healing process in overcoming the devastating effects this syndrome has had within our community." Following the presentation is a question-and-answer session with the Commissioners.

File contains a presentation by Carol Wildcat discussing a variety of issues with the Ermineskin First Nations, including the high drop-out rate of high school students, lack of housing, life skills, violence against women and children and unemployment. Following the presentation is a question-and-answer session with the Commissioners and Wildcat, Brian Lee and Jim Minde.

File contains a presentation by Elder Catherine Cooper believing the Elder Council and the Youth Council should work together to ensure the youth learn about their culture and history. She briefly discusses health care problems and hunting and fishing rights.

File contains a presentation by Cecil Currie, an elder from the Montana Band that focuses on Aboriginal self-government. He introduces the next speaker, Cara Currie.

File contains a presentation by Charles Solomon. Solomon provides a brief historical overview of the Kingsclear Maliseet First Nation's reserve. Following the presentation are some brief remarks by Commissioner Mary Sillet on the Commission's mandate.

File contains a presentation by Charlotte Ross, La Ronge Native Women's Council. Ross discusses her personal experience with family violence, and discusse the La Ronge Native Women's Council of which she is a part. Ross discusses her view that abusers as well as the abused need treatment for behaviour they have internalized.

File contains a presentation by Charlotte Wolfrey, Rigolet Housing and Toby Andersen, Chairman of the Torngat Regional Housing Association. Wolfrey gives an overview of the housing situation in Labrador, and Andersen discusses the rural native housing program for Inuit and rural residents in the province. Commissioners Dussault and Robinson contribute some questions on housing in the area.

File contains a presentation by Cheryl Sibbeston discussing four areas of concern: having educational facilities closer to home, alcohol and the negative effects on families, more health care facilities in settlements, and land claims and self-government. Following the presentation is a discussion with the Commissioners.

File contains a presentation by Chief Allan Happyjack and Jack Blacksmith that first provides a brief history of Waswanipi. Their presentation covers a wide range of issues, including the justice system and policing, hunting and trapping, the environment and health care. The speakers believe that the Canadian and Quebec governments have either ignored, set aside or in breach of major sections of the James Bay and Northern Quebec Agreement. Following the presentation is a question-and-answer session with the Commissioners.

File contains remarks by Chief Andrew Kirkness welcoming the Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples to The Pas, Manitoba, and expressing his hopes for the process.

File contains a presentation by Chief Archie Waguan of the Mikisew Cree First Nation. Waguan discusses the relationship his people have had with the government of Canada since they signed Treaty Eight in 1899, and the negative impact that the Canadian government and industry have had on their community and the environment which sustains it. Waguan questions the intentions of the Commission and its mandate. Commissioner Blakeney responds to the concerns raised by Waguan, and Commissioner Chartrand also contributes some comments.

File contains a presentation by Chief Berna Landry of Fort Providence Band, also representing the Deh Cho Divisional Educational Board. Landry discusses Dene life pre-contact and how the lives of elders and youth have been affected. Following the presentation is a discussion with the Commissioners.

File contains a presentation by Chief Bert Mack, Toquaht Nation Economic Development. Chief Mack discusses his ideas on the importance of self-reliance with respect to government funding agencies and self-governance. Mack also highlights a complaint about the conduct of consulting firms towards his people.

File contains a presentation by Chief Calvin McArthur of the Pheasant Rump Nakoda Band. McArthur is also a representative of the Dakota Nation Chiefs. McArthur explains his view that the Treaties are nation to nation agreements, and relates how his own band signed an adhesion to Treaty No. 4 in 1876.

File contains a presentation by Chief Carl Quinn focusing on Aboriginal self-government and self-determination. He states that the government should act by repealing the Indian Act and its amendments, abolishing the Department of Indian Affairs, set up a treaty-trust commission, abolish secret agreements between the federal and provincial governments, among other recommendations. He introduces the next speaker, Eric J. Large of the Saddle Lake First Nation.

File contains a presentation by Chief Charlie Cootes, Uchucklesaht Residential Schools. Cootes relates the often painful history of the Nuu-Chah-Nulth's experience with residential schools, and its legacy on their communities.

File contains a presentation by Chief Councillor Danny Watts. Watts discusses housing and infrastrcture, as well as his orgnaization's need for increased revenue to meet its obligations. Watts also discusses the Federal government and his views on affordable housing provision.

File contains a presentation by Chief Councillor Earl Smith. Smith addresses his concern over justice, and how it relates to self-government and the lands claims process. Smith sees an indigenous system of justice based on his people's values as fundamental to self-governance. Following the presentation is a brief conversation between Mr. Smith and Commissioner Erasmus on the topics discussed.

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 Dan Koosees of Kashechewan First Nations in Ontario. He describes living conditions on his First Nations as "below sub-standard" and gives the Commissioners a written proposal relating to a five-year housing and infrastructure construction program on Kashechewan First Nation.

File contains a presentation by Chief Dan Robillard, Prince Albert Tribal Council. Robillard discusses the importance of language to culture, and highlights some economic complaints directed at government policy with relation to freight costs and outfitting. Robillard also highlights his view that the Inuit have been given superior assistance to that recieved by the Dene. Chief John McDonald then discusses multi-jurisdictional issues. Following this, Commissioners Erasmus and Chartrand make some questions and comments on land use in the north.

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 David Keenan, Teslin Tlingit Nation, Yukon. He provides a brief history of the Teslin Tlingit people, discussing the Clan system of government and the negative effects of European contact. Keenan notes that Teslin Tlingit Nation is one of the few Canadian First Nations that have a constitution based not on the Indian Act, but on Teslin Tlingit traditional values. Following the presentation is a question-and-answer session with the Commissioners.

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 Flett regarding issues including self-government, Aboriginal and Treaty Rights, land, resources, the environment, gambling, fiscal arrangements, health, social services, economic development, on-reserve policing, the justice system, education, housing, and community infrastructure. Following the presentation is a discussion between Chief Flett and Commissioners Blakeney and Chartrand regarding the issues raised in the presentation.

File contains remarks by Chief Flett of the Pas First Nation welcoming the Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples to The Pas, Manitoba.

File contains a presentation by Chief George Fern, Prince Albert Tribal Council. Fern states that he is the Chief of the Fond du Lac First Nation, and that resource co-management and revenue sharing is the position his Nation takes on economic development in the area which he believes is consistent with Treaty.

File contains a presentation by Chief George Watts. Watts discusses the land claims, or Treaty, process in British Columbia, the Canadian Constitution, and self-governance issues. Watts lays out how he sees the three issues as intertwined, and the resolution of them to be related. Following the presentation the presenter discusses some of these issues with Commissioners Erasmus, and Robinson.

File contains a presentation by Chief Gerald Antoine on behalf of the Deh Cho Regional Council. The presentation was prepared by Rene Lamothe and Betty Hardisty, who consulted with Elders, band members, Metis locals and municipal council of the Deh Cho Region. Visitations in the Deh Cho Region generated feedback regarding the Canadian Constitution and a discussion of the existing constitutional revisions in Canada. Briefly listed are statements of positions by members of the various local councils.

File contains a presentation by Chief Gerald Antoine and Rene Lamothe that lists "the 12 statements of principles that are based on statements of Elders and leaders with reference to the history of the people on the land and constitutional consideration." The presentation then focuses on land claims and self-government using the framework of the 12 statements. Following the presentation is a lengthy discussion between Lamothe and Commissioner Allan Blakeney.

File contains a presentation by Chief Gerry Jack, Muchaht (phonetic) Culture. Jack discusses his people's traditional cultural views on governance and territory. Following the presentation is a conversation between Chief Jack and Commissioner Georges Erasmus on some of the ideas in Jack's presentation.