File contains a presentation by Chief Baptiste Cazon, who is concerned about poverty levels among Inuit, the lack of opportunities for young people and financial discrimination against pensioners. Cazon was on the Royal Commission when John Diefenbaker was Prime Minister and feels this Commission may be a wasted opportunity as well.

File contains an individual presentation by Barbara Becker describing the effects of residential schools, Bill C-31 and discrimination against Aboriginal women have had on her family. She urges Canadian non-Aboriginals to understand their history because without that background, she feels that understanding Aboriginal history is impossible. Becker suggests having Commissioner Viola Robinson lead a closed hearing for Aboriginal women to present their concerns and ideas. Following the presentation is a discussion with the Commissioners.

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 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 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.

File contains a presentation by Denny Grisdale, District No. 70 School Board. Grisdale discusses the trust and relationship between his School District and the Nuu-Chah-Nulth Tribal Council. He relates several anecdotes about the importance of First Nations language instruction, First Nations teaching approachs, and respect for First Nations culture in a more general sense. Grisdale then introduces the next presenter who is also from his school board, Donna Brett.

File contains a brief presentation by Desmond Peters focuses on community development. He mentions government policy aimed at assimilation and particularly Bill C-31 that has left Aboriginals "in a dysfunctional state in our own communities. He then introduces the next speaker, Leonie Rivers.

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 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 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.

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 Ontario Provincial Police Inspector Ernie Houghton and Chief of Police Brian David, on the subject of the Akwesasne court system. As well as questions from the assembled Commissioners to this presentation and those made previously.

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 Gerri Collins, Second Vice-Chairman, British Columbia Association of Friendship Centres. She introduces Wilfred Price and Wally Samuel, members of the executive of the British Columbia Association of Friendship Centres. Collins gives a brief history of the Canadian Friendship Centre movement. She questions the validity of holding discussions around urban Aboriginal self-government without the involvement of the BC Association of Friendship Centres, the only urban Aboriginal organization which has a mechanism in place already.

File contains a presentation by Gerry Penney, representative, Conne River, Newfoundland, that reiterates statements made by the previous speaker, Jerry Wetzel, also of Conne River, Newfoundland.

File contains a presentation by Ineaq Korgak, executive assistant for the Baffin Regional Health Board. Korgak discusses many of the social issues facing the Inuit people of Baffin Island, including high mortality rates, low life expectancy, drug abuse, AIDS, alcoholism, gambling, poor nutrition, and a lack of economic opportunities. He also discusses midwifery and makes some suggestions on how these subjects can be addressed in a productive manner. Following the presentation Korgak discusses some of these issues with Commissioner Dussault.

File contains a presentation by Jack Harris, Member, House of Assembly, St. John's, Newfoundland. He introduces Clee Newhook, Leader, Newfoundland and Labrador New Democratic Party, who makes a brief statement. Harris is a Member of the House of Assembly for St. John's East district. He states that Aboriginal people in Newfoundland receive different treatment from their provincial government as compared to Aboriginals elsewhere in Canada.

File contains a presentation by Jack McDonald, Port Alberni Native Council. McDonald discusses what it means to be a Metis in British Columbia, and the challenges that confront his people as well as what he characterizes as an ignorant government and populace when it comes to Metis issues. Following the presentation Commissioner Georges Erasmus discusses some issues of Metis identity in British Columbia with McDonald.

File contains a presentation by Jackie Adams on behalf of herself and a group of Aboriginal woman. Adams discusses some of the issues facing Aboriginal women in her community and explains why she thinks it is neccessary to have a community centre and treatment programs geared specifically towards Aboriginal women's issues. There is also a discussion between Adams and Commissioners Georges Erasmus and Viola Robinson regarding her presentation and the issues raised therein.

File contains a presentation by James Mercredi representing the Fort Simpson Dene Council. He expresses concern about proposed uranium mining and how it will affect the Deh Cho River system. Mercredi cites Treaties 8 and 11 and various governmental papers and believes aspects of these documents are unconstitutional. Following the presentation is a discussion with the Commissioners.

File contains a presentation by Jill Harris that summarizes the presentations of the previous four speakers. She notes that students from the Aboriginal Government class at the University of Victoria are present and feels their presence represents the action being taken by Aboriginal governments to work for a better life for Aboriginal youth. Harris believes that "reconciliation between our Aboriginal governments and the Canadian governments must be a priority". A discussion between the presenters and Commissioners follows the presentation.

File contains a presentation by Jim Carberry. Carberry discusses his favourable impressions of Canada as a youth in Northern Ireland, and his shock and disgust at the position of Aboriginal people in Canadian society when he arrived here. Carberry discusses how he sees Aboriginal problems as mirroring those of other minorities around the world, and makes some suggestions to increase Aboriginal pariticipation in the wider society. Following the presentation is a discussion between Commissioners Chartrand and Blakeney with Carberry on some of these topics.

File contains a presentation by John Elliot, Saanich Tribal School. He reiterates what a previous speaker, Earl Claxton, said about the disappearance of the Saanich language. He hopes that the Commission recommends continuing funding of a two-year program that teaches the Saanich language and culture. Following the presentation is a discussion with the Commissioners.

File contains a presentation by John Shafer discussing the Canadian government's century-old intent to create policies for the purpose of "extinguishment and assimilation" of Aboriginals in Canada and believes that attitude continues today. He also discusses the harmful effects of water pollution of the watershed that drains into Lake Lil'Wat, British Columbia.

File contains a presentation by Kirk Lethbridge discussing his views of Aboriginal self-government and the "inevitability of self-determination." He feels he may not see it in his lifetime, but says his children will. Lethbridge calls on the Commission to ensure that "soon all Aboriginal people in Labrador, and in Canada, will be under the same flag."

File contains a presentation by Laverne Cook. Cook explains how she has been hired by the Port Alberni Friendship Centre to do a survey of "the disabled natives in the Port Alberni area" and how she feels that their needs in areas such as transportation, housing, and medicine need to be addressed.

File contains a presentation by Leetia James of the Baffin Region Uvik Society. James descibes the history of her organization which was founded in 1984 "to provide and co-ordinate services for women who are living in violent relationships." James discusses the overall social problems she sees within her society such as drug and alcohol abuse, spousal assault and suicide. She also stresses the inability of the Canadian justice and legal system to deal properly with Inuit culture at the local level. Follownig the presentation Commissioner Dussault discusses James' group's shelter with her.

File contains a presentation by Leonie Rivers that focuses on Aboriginal women's issues. Her presentation highlights the role and position of Aboriginal women under existing social conditions of Aboriginal government. She describes discrimination against Aboriginal women as "massive" and believes that Aboriginal self-government must ensure rights for Aboriginal women as well. She then introduces the next speaker, Jill Harris.

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 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 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 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 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.

This file contains a presentation in French by the Committee to Promote and Monitor Human Rights in Kahnawake and the Neighboring Communities relating to the 1990 Oka Crisis and the current joint SQ-RCMP patrols from Kahnawake territory. A question-and-answer session with the Commissioners follows the presentation.

This file contains a presentation by the Committee to Promote and Monitor Human Rights in Kahnawake and the Neighboring Communities relating to the 1990 Oka Crisis and the current joint SQ-RCMP patrols from Kahnawake territory. A question-and-answer session in English with the Commissioners is located in RCAP112-8.

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 Mary Charleson of Victoria, British Columbia, via sign language interpreter. Charleson attended the Jericho Hill School for the Deaf in Vancouver where there were few Aboriginal people. She would like to see a program for assisting hearing-impaired Aboriginal people who want to return to their reserve. A discussion with the Commissioners follows the presentation.

File contains a presentation by Mary Jane Litchard, Baleen Artist. Litchard, an Inuit-Comanche woman from Alaska, discusses her experiences in Canada and issues with the international border, her difficulties transporting the Baleen she works on as a medium across boundaries, language issues, midwifery, tuberculosis and other health issues, prejudice, and the value of community counselling and healing services. Following the presentation is a conversation between Litchard and Commissioners Dussault and Sillet on some of the issues raised.

File contains a presentation by Maureen Sager, Environmental Coalition. Sager states that she did not realize she would be on the agenda at the hearing, then goes on to outline the views of her group on First Nations issues in a brief presentation. She discusses their interpretation of Canadian history, the need for new negotiations between Canada and First Nations on a nation-to-nation basis, environmental issues regarding the local pulp mill, and why her organization feels the ongoing Constitutional talks (at the time of the presentation) were inadequate.

File contains a presentation by Maxwell Yalden, Commissioner of the Canadian Human Rights Commission, regarding his organizations past advocacy on behalf of Aboriginal peoples (including its support for the creation of the Commission), a universalist approach to Charter of Rights and Freedoms rights, his view that the Charter is complimentary to collective Aboriginal rights, the need to redress and relieve discrimination and abuses against Aboriginal Canadians, the importance of acting now with regards to Aboriginal issues rather than later.

File contains a presentation by Raymond Michaud, Mayor of Fort Simpson, Northwest Territories, providing the history relating to Treaties 8 and 11 and the subsequent broken promises and misinterpretation of those treaties. He states that land claims negotiations of the past 30 years also had promises were not fulfilled, either. Michaud wants the Northwest Territories Legislative Assembly to remain intact, with regional and municipal councils. Following the presentation, Michaud answers questions from Commissioner Allan Blakeney.

File contains a presentation by Meeka Kilabuk, Executive Director, Baffin Regional Council. She provides background information on the purpose of the Council and the large land base that the Council covers. Kilabuk states that the high cost of airfare is a deterrent when members of the Council, located great distances apart, attempt to meet. Kilabuk also relates a successful effort by the Baffin Regional Council to raise the quota on hunting Beluga whales from 5 to 35 and wonders why this number is always under review by the Canadian government, as the whales are essential for survival.

File contains a presentation by Okalik Curley. Curley discusses the structure of families amongst the Inuit, and the need for greater organization within their communities. Curley discusses the traditional custom of adoption with Commissioner Rene Dussault.

File contains a presentation by Phil Hall, Skowkale Reserve, Chillwack, British Columbia. Hall feels that social issues for Aboriginal people must be given priority over other issues such as land claims and self-government. He acknowledges that he is a survivor of sexual abuse as a child and believes the Canadian government should "take a look at our own backdoor" and address social issues among Aboriginal and also non-Aboriginal people as well. Following the presentation is a discussion with the Commissioners.

File contains a presentation by Charlie Thompson, President of hte Port Alberni Friendship Centre. Thompson tells the history of his people, the problems caused by colonialism and the government's approach, his personal experience with residential schools, some issues of self-governance, and the story of his particular Friendship Centre. Following the presentation is a discussion between Thompson and Commissioners Erasmus and Robinson on the challenges facing urban Aboriginals.

File contains a presentation by Rhoda Fiander, social worker at Waterford Hospital, St. John's, Newfoundland. Waterford Hospital has the only psychiatric facility in Newfoundland. She presents five recommendations to assist in the treatment of mental health issues for Aboriginal people, including improved access to interpreting services, training of social work staff that includes Aboriginal culture issues, and support and advocacy must be given to Aboriginal peoples' desire to heal themselves. Following the presentation is a discussion with the Commissioners.

File contains a brief presentation by Robert Michel relating to the history of Aboriginal self-government. He cites the Indian Act as a policy that has "taken away the natural and economic resource base which is necessary for Aboriginal people to remain self-sufficient." He then introduces the next speaker, Desmond Peters.

File contains a presentation by Roger Cousins. Cousins speaks on the topic of land claims in the Eastern arctic. He discusses Aboriginal land claims in Saskatchewan and British Columbia, and then the Nunavut claim in the Eastern arctic. In answerance to Commissioner Dussault's earlier question on where the Commission should start Cousins states "a good place to start would be to make sure that the Inuit have a land base in their home communities." Following the presentation Commmissioner Dussault discusses the topic with Cousins.

File contains a presentation by Ruth Kadlutsiak, Baffin Region Inuit Association, via translator. She provides a brief history of the Association and how it works to preserve the Inuktitut language and Inuit culture.

File contains a presentation by Saalie Peter, Chairman of the Apex Education Council. Peter describes the history of his people and the challenges they have encountered, particularly the depletion of whale stocks, and the assertion of federal control over Inuit communities in the 1950s. Peter also describes the challenges faced across cultures in education and the issues his organization encounters. Following the presentation is a discussion between Peter and the Commissioners on the issues raised.