File contains a presentation by Lorraine Land, Harry Kitts, of Citizens for Public Justice. Land and Kitts discuss their organizations recently released book entitled "Nation to Nation, Aboriginal Sovereignty and the Future of Canada." Land describes how the book is pertinent to the Commission in attempting to "look at the challenges of arising from discord and mistrust between our peoples toward a relationship that is based more on reconciliation and respect for one another."

This file contains a presentation by Lorraine McKay focusing on Aboriginals living off-reserve in Brandon. She states that large numbers of Aboriginals are moving to larger centres and are finding it difficult to find housing and gain employment. The speaker calls on the Commission to secure funding for more programs for Aboriginals living in Brandon. A question-and-answer session with the Commissioners follows the presentation.

File contains a presentation by Louie Frank. Frank relates a message from a Nuu-Chah-Nulth elder to the Commission discussing his hopes and his people's hopes for it. Following this Commissioner Erasmus thanks Frank and sums up his ideas on the day's proceedings. Chief Nelson Keitlah then closes the days proceedings with a prayer in the Nuh-Chah-Nulth language.

File contains a presentation by President Louis Pilakapsi of the Keewatin Inuit Association. He gives a presentation on a variety of issues of concern to his organization including northern transportation costs and the need for improved transportation infrastructure, suicide concerns, health issues such as a lack of running water and E coli outbreaks in some communities, welfare concerns, the desire to keep uranium mining out of the future Nunavut territory due to health concerns, and the need for a health facility for the Keewatin Region.

File contains a presentation by Louisa Smith, North Coast Tribal Council. Smith discusses First Nations education issues, a dispute she had with School District 52, funding issues, administrative problems in schools, teacher issues, special needs students' issues, and teacher racism in schools. Bernice Goldie discusses her experiences as a teacher, administrative abuses, bureaucratic practices which detrimentally effect students, and related concerns.

File contains a presentation by Louise Bouvier, Yukon Indian Women's Association. Bouvier, the organization's President, discusses their program the Dene Nets'edet'an which is a community healing project intended to treat "family violence, alcohol and drug abuse, sexual abuse, mission school syndrome, et cetera." Dene Nes'edet'an differs from past approaches in emphasizing After-care: an emphasis on long term recovery treatment for dealing with traumas. Following Bouvier's presentation the assembled Commissioners discuss the program with her.

File contains a presentation by the Aboriginal Advisory Council. Chairperson Louise Chippeway, Dan Highway, Elsie Moar, Bernice Hilts, Brian Ranville, and Clayton Sandy all contribute. The presenters are all civil servants with the provincial and federal governments and discuss affirmative action programs, overcoming racism, and Aboriginal participation in the labour force. Chairperson Chippeway and Ranville deliver most of the presentation. Following it the assembled Commissioners discuss some of the issues raised with the presenters.

File contains a presentation by Wilfred Jacobs on the historical background of the Lower Kootenay Indian Band, followed by opening remarks for the sitting of the Commission at Cranbrook, British Columbia, on November 3, 1992 by Commissioners Rene Dussault, Paul Chartrand, and Commissioner for the day Lexine Phillips. Jacobs discusses traditional territories, food sources, contact with Europeans, and the desire among his people to continue pushing for self-governance despite the recent failure of the Charlottetown Accord referendum.

File contains a presentation by Lucassie Arragutainaq, Vice-President, Arctic Co-operatives Limited. Arragutainaq discusses the Co-operative movement in the North, its principles, function, and history across the Northwest Territories and Nunavut. He discusses its importance to Inuit and Dene people, and the need for government policies that are helpful to this kind of community development, particularly in the finanical sector (Credit Unions).

File contains a presentation by Lucassie Nutaraluk, Chairman of Kalugiak, an elders group, via translator. He is concerned with quotas for hunting and fishing and does not want Inuit people jailed for breaking laws. Nutaraluk also expresses concern that many young people do not speak Inuktitut and fears the language may die out if schools do not teach native languages.

File contains a presentation by Lucien Taparti who's an Elder and Chairperson of the local Elders' organization, discusses how Elder and hunters' concerns are often neglected while those of people who own businesses are addressed by government. He states that their is a knowledge gap of traditional Inuit culture among youth which should be addressed. Taparti discusses the local Elders organization, his work-related disability, and concerns with the justice system and the role Elders can play.

File contains a presentation by Luke Novoligak whose organization was established in 1959 and serves Cambridge Bay and area. The store is essential for supplies and in addition, the Co-op also runs a hotel and a commercial fishing venture. A question-and-answer session with the Commissioners follows the presentation.

File contains a presentation by Luzarus Arreak. Arreak asks the Commission for "Inuit to be defined separatley and individually as Inuit." She asks for a seperate definiton in the Constitution and "anywhere else." Arreak relates some of her personal history as a Inuit, as well as much of the history of her people, celebrating how they have "progressed rapidly" in 30 to 40 years, and their accomplishments in the political realm. Arreak also highlights some of the problems they have faced with regards to resource development, and adjustement to new realities while emphasizing a positive future.

File contains a presentation by Lyle Boland. Boland, representing the SaskNative Economic Development Corporation, discusses a variety of issues pertained to the Metis economy in Saskatchewan. Foremost amongst these is the need to "level the playing field" for Metis people with comparison to Status Indians.

File contains a presentation by Madeline Rizzoli, representing the Alberta Trappers Association. She states that trapping has and is an ongoing occupation that residents rely for survival. Following the presentation are remarks by the Commissioners regarding leghold traps.

File contains a presentation by Maffat Makuto, who is also speaking on behalf of the Regional Multicultural Youth Council, an organization affiliated with the Multicultural Association. Makuto speaks of the indifference shown by Aboriginal high school principals in northern Ontario when given the opportunity to use relevant and educational videos provided for free by his Association. Eventually the Youth Council lobbied to have them shown in the classroom.

File contains a presentation by Maggie Hodgeson discussing the Nechi Institute's purpose and goals. In the last 18 years this Aboriginal training institute has trained 2500 counsellors to work in the 15 Aboriginal treatment programs and 30 prevention programs in Alberta. Hodgeson calls for the Commission to ensure funding for the Nechi Institute continues because its graduates are contributing to the decline of substance abuse among Aboriginals in Alberta.

The file contains opening remarks by Maggie Hodgson, Chairperson. Hodgson discusses her personal involvement in the area of suicide prevention, labour market analysis, and training issues in the health field.

The file contains a presentation by Loretta Clark, General Manager of the Communities Economic Development Fund. Clark discusses "the economic conditions and opportunities or lack of the same for Aboriginal peoples." Clark also gives some of the historical background of the CEDF, and describes its' operations. Following the presentation Commissioners Chartrand and Wilson discuss some of the issues raised with Clark.

The file contains a presentation by Marguerite Sanderson. Sanderson, presenting on behalf of the Northern Women's Resource Services, discusses that organization's mandate and work in northern Manitoba "improving the situation of the Northern women and their families, in the social, economic, and political spheres." Following the presentation Commissioners Wilson and Chartrand discuss some of the issues raised with Sanderson.

File contains a presentation by Therese Ottawa and Delima Niquay of the Regional Council on Education and Culture. Ottawa discusses family violence, addictions, and associated social services concerns. Ottawa recommends harsher sentences for conjugal violence, stronger community participation, better funding for social services, as well as discussing general women's issues, the need for increased awareness campaigns, and the establishment of men's discussion groups on the issue of family violence.

File contains a presentation by Manny Chalifoux that begins with the history of Northland School Division No. 61, headquartered in Peace River, Alberta. This school division serves a predominantly Aboriginal population. Chalifoux recommends that Aboriginal language programs, in-school cultural programs, curriculum development projects, training of all staff on cross-cultural issues and training of Aboriginal people to become teachers must be supported. Following the presentation is a question-and-answer session with the Commissioners.

File contains a presentation by Marc Leclair, Spokesperson, Metis National Council. Leclair discusses his organizations participation in the 1992 Canadian Constitutional talks, and its efforts to have the federal responsibility for Metis people recognized alongside the provincial premiers. Leclair also discusses his organizations efforts to form a central registry of descendent's of the historic Metis nation, land and resource concerns, self-governance, and his views on his organization's relations with the Commission and its mandate.

File contains remarks by Marg Beament, Norsask Native Outreach. Beament describes the work of her organization which is intended to facilitate employment and training for northern residents (both Aboriginal and Non). Beament describes some of the problems her organizations field workers commonly encounter in northern communities including: poor self-esteem and lack of confidence, little or no employment history, lack of personal support, little training or education history, family problems, lack of transportation, lack of childcare, lack of quality housing, and lack of justice services.

File contains a presentation by Margaret King and Donna Renneberg offering six recommendations, including an off-reserve driven process recognized by all levels of government for full and equal participation of all constituents regarding matters that directly them, and that this process develop options of self-government for off-reserve people which can be ratified by off-reserve treaty people. Following the presentation is a question-and-answer session with the Commissioners.

The file contains a presentation by Margaret Jackson. Jackson discusses family support, particularly with reference to single mothers, and complications arising from Indian Act restrictions on the paying of child support by fathers.

File contains a presentation by Margaret Klopenberg, Assistant Co-ordinator of the Child Identification Program, and Christine Hoffman, Chairperson, both of the North Central Alberta Crisis Intervention Association. They describe the variety of programs the Association offers to Aboriginal people, including women's and men's domestic violence groups and self-esteem and victim assistance programs. The Association operates with little funding, much of it raised themselves, so Klopenberg and Hoffman call on the Commission to help them secure funds to keep these essential programs operating.

File contains a presentation by Margaret McCullough of the Yukon Human Rights Commission. McCullough discusses the Commissions activities and her witnessing of racism and discrimination in Yukon society. She also discusses some of the steps the Commission has taken to educate about racism. Following her presentation McCullough discusses racism and related issues with the assembled Commissioners.

File contains a presentation by Margaret Teneese, of the Shuswap Indian Band. Teneese discusses some of the problems faced by people in her Band, primarily in the social sphere. She discusses concerns with sexual abuse, the justice system, and the need to return to traditional culture and language. Following the presentation Commissioner for the day Lexine Phillips thanks Teneese for her thoughts.

File contains a presentation by Marge Friedel. Friedel presents on behalf of the Women of the Metis Nation of Alberta. Friedel addresses the exclusion of women from the Canadian Constitutional process, and the struggle for inclusion within Metis political organizations. Friedel also discusses self-government and critiques the Metis National Council for not, in her view, representing the concerns of Metis women. Following the presentation is a discussion between Friedel and the Commissioners Chartrand and Blakeney on the issues contained therein.

File contains a brief presentation by Marge Lalonde, speaking on behalf of the elders of Iqaluit. She expresses concern for the high cost of food year-round and the difficulty of providing healthy meals for families with food often already spoiled upon shipping.

File contains a presentation by Margo Vermillion, a Fort Chipewyan resident who works as co-ordinator of a temporary elders care unit in the community. Vermillion discusses seniors issues in the community, particularly in terms of long-term care. She discusses the need for such a facility in the community itself, and the detrimental effects of removing seniors from their home community for long-term care. Following the presentation is a discussion between Vermillion and Commissioners Blakeney and Chartrand on senior's issues.

This file contains a presentation by Marguerite Cardin and Pierre Taillon relating to their group that represents Aboriginal people living off-reserve and Metis in Quebec. Cardin states that these persons suffer with a lack of identity and cites multiple examples of this problems. She also states that Aboriginal women need to fight to improve conditions for themselves, as Aboriginal male leaders "appear not to be interested" in being involved in the struggle for Aboriginal women's rights. The Commissioners provide questions for the presenters during the presentation.

This file contains a presentation by Marie Mumford, Sandra Laronde and Elaine Bomberry relating to Aboriginal people in Canada involved in the arts and culture. A number of Aboriginal organizations and schools involved in art, dance, theater and music exist in Canada and most could benefit from government funding. Some students who cannot afford to pay tuition are sometimes funded by their First Nations or through family and relatives, but the presenters feel that Aboriginal art and culture would thrive if more financial assistance was available for students.

File contains a presentation by Marilyn Fontaine, Spokesperson, Aboriginal Women's Unity Coalition. Fontaine discusses her organizations history, and the issues it deals with including sexism, violence, abuse, lack of political representation, self-government talks, and the environment.

This file contains a presentation by Mario Paradis and Rene Boileau whose organization "brings together Metis and non-status Indians of Quebec, to have their status concretely recognized; to study, promote, protect and develop the material, cultural, social, economic and political interests of its members in every way possible; and to maintain a permanent secretariat in order to develop links among the members. The speakers also address the difficulty of determining the origin of the Canadian Metis.

File contains a presentation by Marion Lindsay discussing the substandard housing conditions that are commonplace in the Umpherville settlement. Following the presentation is a discussion with the Commissioners. She calls for the repair of the local community hall, hub of activity in the settlement. She introduces Mrs. MacKenzie, member.

File contains a presentation by Marjorie Andersen, Mayor of Makkovik. After welcoming the Commission to her community, Andersen discusses some of their concerns such as a lack of adequate community funding, water and sewer system problems, poor roads, fishery issues, policing, housing, and the need for land development.

This file contains a presentation by Mark LaForme relating to his experiences in negotiations with First Nations, Ontario and the federal governments in the area of self-government. He refers to not the overall governance of a community, but with specific matters such as policing agreements for First Nations, and joint stewardship of resources immediately adjacent to First Nations communities. The First Nations negotiations that LaForme has been involved with look for practical, realistic solutions to problems that face Aboriginal people every day.

This file consists of a presentation by Mark Taylor describing his organization's efforts in assisting Aboriginal persons affected by substance abuse. Services offered include a toll-free information number about alcohol and drug abuse, and public information brochures translated into Cree. The organization is also co-hosting the Fifth Annual Conference on the Reduction of Drug Related Harm, a major international conference. A question-and-answer session with the Commissioners follows the presentation.

File contains a presentation by Mark Wedge of the Yukon Indian Development Corporation. Wedge discusses his views on education and how different cultures have different basic definitions of the concept. Wedge discusses some traditional Tlingit and Hopi views, as well as educational legislation and constitutional issues. Following his presentation the assembled Commissioners engage Wedge in a discussion on the issues raised.

File contains a presentation by Marlene Antoniow discussing the prevalence of addiction issues among Aboriginal people and the shortage of Aboriginal social workers to treat them. She is also concerned about poor health care that elders receive relating to waiting lists and lack of transportation. Following the presentation is a question-and-answer session with the Commissioners.

This file contains a presentation by members of the Calgary Aboriginal Awareness Society, a non-profit organization that takes direction from an elected board of Directors. The society consists of a number of committees that represent education, social issues, arts and culture, business and all aspects of the Aboriginal community. The Society promotes goodwill and understanding between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal communities. The Society holds a yearly Native Awareness Week, a celebration of Aboriginal culture and traditions.

File contains a presentation by Marlene Pierre and Bernadette Cook focusing on Aboriginal women in politics and they must be included in the decision-making process. She describes the clan system of government and how the benefits of that system could be used in an "Aboriginal Charter," a form of self-government established by Aboriginal women on paper. Following the presentation is a question-and-answer session with the Commissioners.

File contains an individual presentation by Marlene Poitras expressing her frustration with poor housing and living conditions for Aboriginals. She states those conditions are directly related to the rate of illness and disease among Aboriginals. She says that off-reserve Aboriginals particularly suffer with poor housing conditions. Poitras calls on the Commission to ensure that adequate funding is given to lifestyle and health programs for all Aboriginals. Following the presentation is a question-and-answer session with the Commissioners.

The file contains presentations by Marshall Murdock, Bernadette Harrison, and Rosa Walker, of the National Aboriginal Youth Career and Awareness Committee, Clayton Sandy of the Manitoba Aboriginal Youth Career Awareness Committee. Murdock discusses the mission statement of N.A.Y.C.A.C., self-government, aboriginal justice, the future of the department of Indian Affairs, the future of Indian Lands, Taxation of Indian lands, and the Indian Act. Sandy gives an overview of the M.A.Y.C.A.C. organization and some of its' work, issues with policing in Winnipeg, and a conference they held there.

This file contains a presentation by Martha Waite touching on a number of subjects, including unemployment, health care and substance abuse, proper training for meaningful employment and land claims. After the presentation, other attendees, along with Waite, offer their comments in a question-and-answer session with the Commissioners.

This file contains a presentation by Marty Snelling and Mary Kelleher focusing on the YMCA and the Pre-Employment Program, which "assists the severely employment disadvantaged to find success both in the workplace and in daily living." Kelleher hopes that this program will become a permanent employment training centre in Brandon. Snelling briefly mentions the Stay In School Program that serves students who are considered at risk of dropping out of school. A question-and-answer session with the Commissioners follows the presentation.

File contains a presentation by Marvin Conner. Conner discusses his personal views on Aboriginal spirituality, Native-Newcomer relations, self-government, and related issues. Following Conner's presentation Commissioner Georges Erasmus makes closing remarks, followed by a closing prayer which concludes the Commission's sitting for the day.