Oratory Skills & Practises

File contains a presentation by Donna Brett, Former Chairperson of British Columbia School District No. 70. Brett is introduced by the preceding presenter, Denny Grisdale. Brett presents an artistic picture to the Nuu-Chah-Nulth Tribal Council "in Recognition of the Growing Co-operation Between the School District and Its People." Following Brett's brief remarks on the symbol of the two organization's relationship, Danny Grisdale briefly discusses some of the contracts between his School District and the Tribal Council.

File contains a presentation by Dorothy Betz, President of the Ke Ki Nan Centre. Presenting alongside Dorothy is Claire Ross, Property manager of the Ke Ki Nan Centre. The Centre was the first urban Aboriginal senior's home of its kind in Canada, and the presenters talk about its establishment and goals. Some comments are also made by the Commissioners regarding the Centre.

File contains a presentation by Dorothy King discussing the role of libraries in promoting cultural awareness between groups in furthering and enhancing education generally for Labradorians. She calls on the Commission to help stop annual cutbacks in funding which affect the service hours of libraries and the ability to send books to the more remote areas of Labrador. Following the discussion is a question-and-answer session with the Commissioners.

File contains a presentation by Dorothy McDonald, Chief, Fort McKay Indian Band. McDonald discusses tar sand development and how it has negatively effected her people and destroyed their traditional way of life.

File contains a presentation by Doug McCrae, President of Keyano College. McCrae discusses his College's operations and its relations to the Aboriginal community as well as area industries such as forestry and oil sands extraction. Following the presentation McCrae discusses some of the issues raised with Commissioners Blakeney and Chartrand.

File contains a presentation by Dr. Adrian Tanner, Native Peoples' Support Group of Newfoundland and Labrador. This group is primarily made up of non-Aboriginal people who believe a partnership between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people could work towards solutions for the problems facing Aboriginal people. The group's main focus is self-government and Tanner draws parallels between Newfoundland entering Confederation in 1949 and the push for Aboriginal self-government. Following the presentation is a discussion with the Commission members.

File contains a presentation by Dr. Anne Anderson. Anderson's presentation entitled "The history of the Metis nation." The presentation gives a general overview of Metis history from Anderson's own personal perspective and what she thinks is its relevance.

File contains a presentation by Dr. Boyce Fradsham, representative, Native and Northern Teacher Education Programs. He discusses the two education programs: Teacher Education Program in Labrador (TEPL), and the Native and Northern Teacher Education Program. Fradsham provides the history of both programs and hopes that the funding he requests will allow the two programs to continue and develop more Aboriginal teachers in Newfoundland. Following the presentation is a discussion with the panel.

File contains a presentation by Dr. Chris Durocher and Dr. David Skinner, representatives, Yukon Medical Association, that focuses on numerous issues relating to health care in the North, including under-representation of First Nations people at the administrative and health workers levels, the relationship between poverty and ill health, and little to non-existent treatment for First Nations persons with mental health problems.

File contains a presentation by Dr. John Butt, Chief Medical Examiner for the Province of Alberta. Butt's duties include the investigation of sudden death in the province, and he relates that he has statistics showing high incidence of alcohol related violent death within Aboriginal communities across Alberta. Butt states that his wish is not to sensationalize the problem but to fill in a gap in social science literature which has not adequately addressed this issue and bring it to the concern of the Commission. He then introduces the next presenter his colleague, Mary Ellen Arnup.

File contains a presentation by Duncan Awasis, Mark Amy Centre. Awasis gives the first half of his presentation in Cree (English translation is provided in the text) and the second half in English. Awasis stresses the importance of rediscovering the "Indian way" in terms of culture and spirituality to heal the people. Awasis also mentions some of the problems facing the community of Fort McMurrary that he has encountered during his work at the Mark Amy Centre, an alcohol addiction treatment centre.

File contains a presentation by Dwayne Desjarlais, Fort McMurray First Nation. Desjarlais discusses the Al-Pac pulp mill near Lake Athabasca, which he states is the largest on earth. Specifically Desjarlais discusses the enviornmental impacts of such development and the need for First Nations input into the process. Following the presentation is a discussion between Desjarlais and Commissioners Chartrand and Blakeney.

File contains a presentation by Earl Claxton, Saanich culture teacher at the Saanich Tribal School. Claxton teaches the Saanich tribal language to students in a two-year immersion program. The Commissioners are appalled to learn that out of approximately 3000 Saanich band members, there are only 20 people who can speak the language. Claxton hopes that the Saanich language program continues to be funded as the Saanich language may die out if younger generations do not learn the language. A discussion with the Commissioners follows the presentation.

File contains a presentation by Earl Magnusson, Director of Urban Development, Federation of Saskatchewan Indians. Magnusson speaks on the issues facing urban Aboriginal people in Saskatchewan. He discusses Treaty rights, self-governance, and municipal service delivery. Following the presentation is a discussion between Magnusson and Commissioners Wilson, Chartrand, and Erasmus on these issues as well as the "portability" of Aboriginal rights.

File contains a presentation by Edith Gull expressing deep frustration with the drop-out rate of students and the apathy of parents. A new school was built in 1989 but attendance is poor and Gull feels that drug and alcohol abuse, among other social issues, are common roadblocks for getting an education. Gull introduces the next speaker, John Kitchen, chairman of the Elementary School Committee.

File contains a presentation by Edward Morin of the Enoch Cree Nation. Morin describes his life experiences as a Status Indian in Alberta, including residential schooling, relations with government officials, discrimination in the justice system, and other problems. Morin also offers up his own views on the Constitution and the need to provide people with economic opportunity in Canada, both Aboriginal and non.

File contains a presentation by Eileen Koe. Koe is a civil servant and proclaims herself to be both a Gwich'in, and a proud Canadian. Koe discusses her views on social issues and housing in the community. She discusses residential schools and the loss of the Gwich'in language, and the detrimental effect this has had on her people. Koe discusses alcoholism, housing programs, trapping, and the need for better job training programs.

File contains a presentation by Eileen Van Bibber that offers six proposals relating to the Liard First Nation and its residents. They include construction of a building for the creation and sale of crafts, training of band members for equipment operation in the Liard area, and construction of a community hall. Van Bibber calls for funding to achieve these goals. Following the presentation is a lengthy discussion with Commissioners Allan Blakeney and Viola Robinson.

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 Elijah Harper regarding a wide variety of issues including self-governance, the Constitution of Canada, previous Royal Commissions, Justice, and some of his personal experiences. Following the presentation is a discussion with the Commissioners.

File contains a presentation by Elizabeth Levi first presenting a brief history of the women's group, and outlines the group's aims and objectives in the future. Of note is the scheduled opening of an office later in 1992 in Fredericton, New Brunswick. Following the presentation is a discussion between the Commissioners and the two Council presenters on some of the issues raised in the presentation.

File contains a presentation by Elizabeth Penashue, Innu spokesperson and elder, expressing concern with low-level flying by Canadian Forces jets, hunting restrictions, and social problems among the Innu people. She appeals to the Commission to help end the low-level flying that disrupts the hunting and trapping that is essential for Innu survival.

File contains a presentation by Elmer Derrick and Doreen Sherry relating to education of Gitanyow children and youth. Large numbers of Gitanyow youth are returning to school and the speakers call on the Commission to secure funding for a new school. Following the presentation is a question-and-answer session with the Commissioners.

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 Emma Robert. Robert discusses concerns affecting working women, particularly those with children, in the community. She sees the biggest problems as being a lack of daycare and babysitter facilities. Another concern she raises is rents being too high for working people. She highlights her biggest concern for people in the community in general as being proper job training which isn't available at the moment. Following the presentation, Commissioner Rene Dussault offers a comment and question on daycare and housing which Roberts answers.

File contains a presentation by Eric J. Large focusing on major issues affecting his First Nation - lack of proper housing, education, lack of available capital funds to implement various economic development opportunities, recreation for youth and health care. Chief Carl Quinn gives closing remarks to Large's presentation, and then he and Large engage in a question-and-answer session with the Commissioners.

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 Eric Robinson, President of the Aboriginal Council of Winnipeg. Robinson discusses his organizations purpose, and mainly focuses on the problems facing the urban Status and Treaty people in Winnipeg, and across Canada. He stresses the need for the Federal government to take action on behalf of Treaty people who live off reserve to alleviate poverty, discrimination, and lack of access to services. Following the presentation, Robinson introduces Mary Guilbeault's (also fo the Aboriginal Council of Winnipeg) presentation.

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.

File contains a presentation by Ethel Lamothe, Social Services worker, Fort Simpson, Northwest Territories. She believes that dealing with Inuit social issues from a European perspective rather than the traditional way has harmed the Inuit people. Lamothe also discusses the need to record oral histories of the elders and to preserve the history of the Dene people. As a territorial government employee, she believes that control of funding should be undertaken by people familiar with northern life, not by bureaucrats. Following the presentation is a discussion with the Commissioners.

File contains a presentation by Evangeline Francis regarding the system First Nations peoples lived under before contact with Europeans. Francis discusses the roles men and women played in family life and how those roles were "eroded away over the years by the oppression. She emphasizes the victimization of Aboriginal women and the need for Aboriginal men to heal. She introduces Elizabeth Levi, the next speaker.

File contains a presentation by Evelyn Webster, Vice-President, Indigenous Women's Collective to the Commission. Webster provides a brief historical overview of her organization, and its mandate to address the social, economic, and political issues confronting Aboriginal women in Manitoba. Webster then goes on to discuss the traditional role of women in Aboriginal societies, and traditional Aboriginal values.

File contains a presentation by Everett Lambert. Lambert, a Mohawk-Cree-Metis man, discusses economic development for Aboriginal Canadians. Lambert states that "Natives don't just need money. Natives need jobs. They need meaningful full-time jobs, jobs that keep them busy eight hours a day, 40 houyrs a week, not the part-time underpaying overworked position too many of our people presently hold." Following the presentation Commissioners Blakeney and Shirt discuss employment issues with Lambert.

File contains a presentation by Fletcher Stewart and Lydia Constant of the Henry Budd College for Ministry. The Henry Budd College for Ministry is an academic institution under the auspices of the Diocese of Brandon, Anglican Church of Canada. Its purpose is to equip persons for ministry in the Church. The aims of the College are three-fold: a) Academic and practical education of Aboriginal people for Christian ministry (lay and ordained) primarily but not exclusively in the Anglican Church of Canada.

File contains a presentation by Fourth Vice-Chief Tom Iron of the Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations. Iron presents on health care, and specifically what it means to the FSIN in the Treaty Six area. He discusses the paramount importance of the treaties, and their meaning to Saskatchewan First Nations. He also discusses some of the Health provisions in Treaty no. Six. Following the presentation Commissioner Chartrand discusses the FSIN defintion of "nation" with Iron.

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.

File contains a presentation by Fred Shore, President, Aboriginal Staff, Student Network, University of Manitoba. Shore discusses suggestions to enhance and improve Aboriginal experiences and participation in post-secondary institutions. Following the presentation is a brief discussion with the Commissioners.

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 Gabe Mentouck, a member of Native Mediation Inc. Mentouck relates why he opposes inherent Indian self-government, and tells a personal story of persecution and abuse by the Chief on his reserve. Mentouck highlights problems with a lack of accountability in Status Indian leadership, a lack of respect for individual rights on reserve, gangsterism and threatening behaviour towards those who opposse the status quo, and unfair treatment of himself from the wider Canadian legal system. Following the presentation is a discussion between the Commissioners and Mr.

File contains a presentation by Gaby Bird. Bird is a representative of the Mushekegowuk Student Services organization. Bird discusses treaty and educational concerns. Bird sees it as fundamental that non-Aboriginal society be educated in Aboriginal history and culture from an early age to bridge the gaps of ignorance between the two peoples. Following the presentation is a discussion between Commissioners Erasmus and Robinson with Beck and preceding presenter Hunter on their educational programs.

File contains a presentation by Garfield Warren. Warren, a member of the Newfoundland and Labrador House of Assembly, discusses his views on the Commission and its work. Following his remarks are closing remarks for the day by Neil Andersen and Rene Dussault.

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 a presentation by Gary Baikie. Baikie discusses the Torngasok Cultural Centre in Nain, Labrador, and the cultural programming it provides. Included is his account of Inuktitut language courses, and traditional carving courses, and the positive results of such programming in the community.

File contains a presentation by Gary Mitchell. Mitchell, a resident of Makkovik, former mayor and past president of community councils of Labrador, and Inuit field worker, speaks on the topic of economic development and fisheries.

File contains a presentation by Gary Patsey focusing on self-government of Gitanmaax based on the Gitksan governmental system. He provides a brief history of the ancient village of Gitanmaax and calls on the Commission to assist on the repealing of Section 74 of the Indian Act. Patsey also briefly discusses housing, unemployment and the negative effects of residential schools upon the Gitanmaax population. Following the presentation is a question-and-answer session with the Commissioners.

File contains a presentation by Garry Standing, a post-secondary student from the Wahpeton Dakota Nation. Standing describes himself as someone who has spent his entire life on reserve until the September before the Commission. The purpose of his presentation is to relay his "experiences from the last eight or nine months. Some of them have been positive and some of them have been negative." He discusses attending the University of Regina, but having to withdraw due to financing changes in Indian Affairs policy. He complains of paternalism and condescension in the approach of Indian Affairs.

File contains a presentation by George Ikaluk. Following an opening prayer for the days proceedings, Ikalkuk discusses the importance of the Inuit language to his people, and introduces the next presenter, Ineaq Korgak.

File contains a presentation by George Jimmy of the [Lake] Cowichan First Nation. He expresses concern with the lack of Aboriginal input into education policies and hopes the findings of the Commission will result in more education opportunities for Aboriginal people.

File contains a presentation by George Rich discussing substance abuse and the lack of recreational facilities and educational opportunities for the youth of Davis Inlet. Rich calls for an Innu-run treatment centre for youth and adults and a permanent RCMP station in Davis Inlet and asks the help of the Commission to achieve this. Following the presentation is a question-and-answer session with the Commissioners.