This file contains a presentation by Doug Maracle relating to the Woodland Cultural Centre's commitment to ongoing research, education, acquisition of resource materials, the development of First Nations language-based resources, library, museum and art collections, while maintaining standard recognized by academic and professional communities.

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 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.

The file contains a presentation by Doug Wilkinson. Wilkinson discusses his experiences with the High Arctic Relocation both in Ottawa and the Arctic during the early 1950s. Wilkinson was a film-maker with the National Film Board of Canada who lived amongst the Inuit in the High Arctic.

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. Douglas A. West, professor, and Wilfred King, student, both from Lakehead University. West states that "all academic disciplines have become attuned to the situation of Canadian Aboriginal people, and they have all become advocates for the improvement of the Aboriginal situation." He states that "we must take the time to learn each other's languages, customs and political and social agendas." King, also the interim President of United Aboriginal Nation, is concerned with the representation of off-reserve status Aboriginals.

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.

This file contains a portion of a transcript of a sitting of the Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples at Regina Friendship Centre, Regina, Saskatchewan. This portion of the Commission includes presentation made by Dr. Eber Hampton of the Saskatchewan Indian Federated College and Blair Stonechild, Academic Dean of the College concerning the education system, curiculum and funding of the College. Questions from the assembled commissioners are also included.

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.

This file contains a portion of a transcript of a sitting of the Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples at Hotel Saskatchewan, Regina, Saskatchewan. This portion of the Commission includes a presentation by Dr. John Hylton concerned with the provision and distribution of Social, health and education services to the Aboriginal Community. Questions from the assembled commissioners are also present.

The file contains an address by Luncheon Keynote Speaker, Dr. Paul R. King of the North Bay Psychiatric Hospital. Dr. King discusses suicide prevention and crisis intervention counselling adding the caveat that attendees may or may not think his methods relevant, but that is for them to decide.

File contains a presentation by Dr. Sheehan, a non-Aboriginal doctor who works on the Sagkeeng First Nation's lands. Sheehan gives his view of the poverty facing First Nations in Canada, the problems of isolation, the diabetes epidemic among First Nations, problems with the education system, health care accessibility issues, the need for an Aboriginal health care organization as an arm of Aboriginal government, and related concerns. Following the presentation are remarks by Commissioner Paul Chartrand thanking the preceding five presenters for their presentations.

File contains a presentation by the Ducharme Elementary School and Dene High School, Principal Greg Hatch, and Principal Steve Innes. Principal Hatch presents a Dene/English storybook to the Commission, then discusses his school and some of the job issues facing his graduates. Principal Innes discusses the high school, and associated community employment, cultural, and language issues. Following the presentation the assembled Commissioners discuss some of the issues raised with Hatch and Innes.

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.

This file contains a presentation by Dwight Dorey and Roger Hunka relating to the "continued marginalization of off-reserve Aboriginals in Nova Scotia that continues to block their participation and full contribution to the broader society." Hunka cites the Navajo Nation in the United States and their success with the George H.W.

File contains a presentation by by Earl Campbell, Joe Baptiste, and Amanda Gail Daniels, Anishnaabe Owayishi. Campbell discusses their organization Anishnaabe Oway-Ishi Inc. (based in Winnipeg, MB) which he describes as "a pre-training program for employment and training opportunities program for Aboriginal youth." Amanda Gail Daniels speaks about racism, employment equity, and the welfare system. Joe Baptiste discusses the government and economics as they pertain to Aboriginal people in Canada.

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 Dean of Xeno Exploration. Dean, who works for a mineral exploration company, discusses the bond that develops through people working together doing meaningful work, and discusses his experiences working with Cree, Slavey, and Inuit people. Following Dean's presentation are comments by Commissioners Erasmus and Wilson, after which the day's sitting is concluded with a closing prayer by Helena Laroque.

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 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.

File contains a presentation by Ed Isaac. Isaac, a Potawatomi man from Walpole Island First Nation, discusses jurisdictional, policing, international border, hunting, and fishing issues at Walpole Island. Following Isaac's presentation the assembled Commissioners discuss some of the issues raised with him. After this the Commissioners make some closing remarks, followed by a closing ceremony and travel song which ends the day's sitting of the Royal Commission.

This file contains a presentation by Ed Newbery of the Outreach Committee of St. James United Church in Simcoe, Ontario. He reads a statement from the Outreach Committee that "expresses support for the self-direction and support for political and economic means resulting in the self-determination of Aboriginal people."

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 on behalf of the Native News Network by Elder Arthur Honyust. Elder Honyust, an Oneida Elder from the Turtle Clan, discusses his views on a new relationship between Aboriginal and Non-Aboriginal people, self-determination for Aboriginal people, self-sufficiency, and treaties. Following the presentation Commissioners Chartrand and Erasmus discuss some of the issues raised with Honyust.

File contains a presentation by Elder George Courchene. Courchene discusses the history of his people, Treaty, some of their spiritual beliefs, and general Aboriginal issues.

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 Elder Rosie Nelson. Nelson relates her own life history in English and Anishnabe (English translation provided) as well as her views on self-government and economic development (specifically gaming). Following the presentation Commissioner Chartrand concludes the day's sitting of the Commission with closing remarks and thanks the participants.

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 Eliza Montgomery. Montgomery delivers a short presentation which requests that funding go directly to the NVIT (Nicola Valley Institute of Technology). Commissioner Dussault thanks her for her remarks.

This file contains a portion of Volume 2 of a sitting of the Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples at Akwesasne Mohawk School, Cornwall Island, Ontario. This portion of the Volume includes a presentation given by Elizabeth Francis for the Department of Social Development and Health, Mohawk Council of Akwasasne on the subjects of the education system and preservation of the Mohawk language and culture.

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 Daisy Hoppe and Sarah Melvin of the Equay Wuk Women's Group. Hoppe discusses the formation of the group in 1988 by "like-minded women who were concerned about family violence that was being experienced and encountered by First Nations women in local and northern communities." Hoppe gives examples of the group's objectives as an educational and advocacy organization, then makes a series of recommendations to the Commission to deal with family violence issues. Following the presentation Commissioners Charles Fox and Bertha Wilson make comments on it.

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.

This file contains a presentation by Eric Johnston, Lenore Keeshig-Tobias and David McLaren relating to overcoming roadblocks such as racism in the fight for Aboriginal self-government. The presentation focuses on hunting and fishing rights, with the Saugeen Ojibway recently being recognized as having the right to fish for trade and commerce. A question-and-answer session with the Commissioners follows the presentation.

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 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.

This file contains a transcript of a portion of a sitting of the Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples at The Fern Resort, Orillia, Ontario. This portion includes a presentation by Ernie Sandy of Christian Island, at a Round Table discussion of Self-Government. Also included are questions and comments made by the assembled Commissioners, Mary Sillett and Bertha Wilson.

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.