Family & Kinship

File contains a presentation made by Ambrose Maurice on the topic of the lack of knowledge of early Aboriginal lifestyles. Also contained are comments and questions from the assembled Commissioners and those of the Commissioner-of-the-Day.

File contains a presentation by Andrew Wesley focusing on issues relating to the placement of Aboriginal children in foster homes, the role of elders in Aboriginal children and youths' lives and the Euro-centric view of Canadian Aboriginal history taught in schools. A question-and-answer session with the Commissioners follows the presentation.

File contains a presentation by Andy Poonae. Poonae discusses some of his personal life experiences with relation to issues facing Aboriginal peoples. Amongst these experiences he describes growing up without knowledge of his own people's cultural traditions, attending a Conference of residential school survivors, and being present at the side of the Mohawks at the Oka standoff.

The file contains a presentation by Angelina Jones. Jones discusses the importance of education, the need for self-healing before self-determination or self-sufficiency can be achieved, social problems, addictions, and Elder abuse on reserves. Following the presentation Commissioner Mary Sillett thanks Jones and comments on her presentation.

File contains a presentation by Anne Rochon Ford, Vicki Ann Wagner, Interim Regulatory Council on Midwifery. The two presenters discuss their organization (funded by the province of Ontario), their work with Aboriginal peoples, jurisdictional issues, the loss of the traditional Aboriginal midwife in Aboriginal society, the desire to incorporate new practices with old, and related issues. They also discuss community birthing centres so that midwifes could be both trained and utilized in a culturally appropriate setting.

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 Barbara Barnes and Glenn Morrison for the National Association of Cultural Education Centres on the subject of the survival of Native culture.

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.

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 Vincenette Cook for Akwesasne Adult Education Program on the subject of the educational system in Akwesasne. Questions from assembled Commissioners follow.

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 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.

The file contains a presentation by Bridget Elliott and Martha Mackenzie. Elliott and Mackenzie, representing the Sudbury Anishnawbaequek, discuss the relationship between Aboriginal and Non-Aboriginal people with respect to educational institutions and curricula, youth issues, women's issues, and the N'Swakamok Native Friendship Centre in Sudbury. During the presentation Commissioners Dussault and Sillett discuss some of the issues raised with the two presenters.

File contains a presentation by Carol Croxon. Croxon, who works for the Ojibway Family Resource Centre, Nipissing First Nation, discusses family violence and associated issues. Following the presentation Croxon discusses some of the issues raised with Commissioners Wilson and Sillett.

File contains a presentation by Cathy Rutherford. Rutherford discusses her observations as the foster parent of 16 Aboriginal children and 10 white children. Following the presentation Commissioners Dussault and Chartrand thank her for sharing her views.

File contains a presentation by Charles Morris of Tikinagan Child and Family Services. Morris discusses the operations, mandate, and goals of his Aboriginal service organization. Morris also discusses some of the pressing social problems the organization encounters such as jurisdictional problems, substance abuse (sniffing), suicide, chronic depression and related issues. Following the presentation the assembled Commissioners discuss some of the issues raised with Morris.

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 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 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 Paul Sam. Chief Sam comments on the preceding presentations of Cathy Rutherford, and the two Roman Catholic Peace and Development Group presenters. Following this Sam invites the Commissioners to come in six months time and take in an Aboriginal fastball tournament. Following the Chief's remarks Commissioners Dussault and Chartrand discuss this with him.

File contains a presentation by Chief Shirley Prosper, and Gerald Webb of the Corner Brook Band. Prosper discusses some issues facing the band in a brief presentation including government recognition, family problems, women's issues, and the need for the establishment of cultural centres to promote the Micmac culture. Following Prosper's presentation Commissioners Erasmus and Robinson engage her in dialogue after which Webb comments on the economic base of the band.

File contains a presentation by Christine Gibson, Co-ordinator fo the Mi'kmaq Child Development Project. Gibson discusses the general child care situation in Canada, in Nova Scotia, and amongst Aboriginal Canadians. Gibson then discusses the specific operation of her project and makes a variety of recommendations for its enhancement. Following the presentation Commissioners Erasmus and Robinson discuss the project and related child care issues with Gibson.

File contains a presentation by the Nicola Valley Native Community Law Office, Merritt Legal Services, by Cliff Thorstenson. He discusses his observations on Aboriginal people and the Canadian justice system, particularly with regards to the local situation. Thorstenson offers a critique of justice institutions, and recommends a more culturally appropriate approach to community justice issues. Following the presentation is a discussion between Commissioners Chartrand and Dussault on justice concerns.

File contains a presentation by Colin Wasacase and Josephine Sandy relating to the work of their organization in providing culturally sensitive support for Anishinabe families in need. A list of recommendations includes the recognition of the federal government of rights and responsibility to provide support to families in accordance with Anishinabe custom, and recognition of the government's trust responsibility to provide adequate financial resources for the presenters' organization to undertake this work. Following the presentation is a question-and-answer session with the Commissioners.

The file contains a presentation by Connie Chartrand, Metis National Council. Chartrand, family violence coordinator for Metis Women of Manitoba, discusses her work establishing self-help groups for Metis women, and her concerns about the possibility of suicides in some instances related to family violence and breakdowns.

File contains a presentation by Connie Eyolfson of the Strong Earth Women Lodge. Eyolfson first discusses her home community of Traverse Bay, and claims they are First Nations (Non-Status), and not a Métis population as the Métis Federation of Manitoba has claimed. Eyolfson then goes on to describe her organization, the Strong Earth Women Lodge, which provides 24 hour care service for crisis situations. Following the presentation are comments by Commissioners Sillet and Chartrand on the content.

File includes a presentation by Danielle Descent. Descent discusses health and social services issues (including disease, suicide, addictions, family violence, education, and culturally related matters) in Sept-Iles/Maliotenam. Following her presentation the assembled Commissioners thank her for sharing her views on these issues.

File contains a presentation by Dave Barron of the Pacific Metis Federation. Barron discusses the story of his people, their neglect by government, his views on Bill C-31 and how the government has divided Aboriginal peoples starting at the family level. Barron concludes by recommending that "some form of legislation be enacted within the near future to release our people from the bonds of Bill C-31, if they should desire." Following the presentation is a discussion between Barron and Commissioner Erasmus on the ideas raised in the presentation.

File contains a presentation by Dawn Campbell and Karen Scout, two Native Studies students at North Battlefords Comprehensive High School. The two present on a point by point basis identifying problems in the spheres of racism, drug and alcohol abuse, suicide, teen pregnancy, loss of culture, boredom and lack of motivation, crime, violence and abuse, education and job training. They also offer solutions for each point. Following the presentation is a discussion between the two presenters and Commissioner Erasmus and Blakeney on some of the ideas put forth.

File contains a presentation by Debbie Foxcraft, Manager, USMA Nuu-chah-nulth Housing and Related Infrastructure. Commissioner Georges Erasmus asks Foxcraft a variety of questions related to her organization and its activities in the sphere of child and family services to which Foxcraft replies. Following this are some comments by Commissioner for the day Nelson Keitlah on children's issues.

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 Debbie Thomas for the Native Women's Association C-31 on the subject of the treatment of Native women. Questions from the assembled Commissioners is also included.

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 a presentation made by Delbert Majer in the youth circle on the topic of youth involvement in the Aboriginal Community and the education system after which a discussion of the presentation is recorded.

File contains a presentation by Della Maguire, Drug and Alcohol Counsellor at the MicMac Native Friendship Centre. Maguire makes a series of recommendations to the Commission for increased funding, staffing, and assistance. Following Maguire's presentation Commissioners Erasmus and Robinson discuss some of the issues raised with her.

File contains a presentation by Diane Ludwig and Elaine Boucher relating to educational issues concerning Aboriginal students in Lac La Biche and area. Both women address a number of concerns with students, such as assisting those in unstable family situations or those who are abusing drugs and alcohol. Ludwig feels that if a co-ordinator was hired, then the small groups and committees within the Native Education Program would be streamlined and thus serve the students better. Following the presentation is a question-and-answer session with the Commissioners.

File contains a presentation by Doris Young of the Indigenous Women's Collective regarding Aboriginal women's issues/views in the realm of the justice system, schools, the Indian Act, training and employment, political systems, and self-governance. Young also stresses the need for Aboriginal women's participation in the establishment of a Charter of Rights for Aboriginal People should such legislation be enacted.

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 made by Dorothy McKay on the topic of single-parenting in Aboriginal families. Also contained are comments and questions from the assembled Commissioners.

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 Dr. Roland Chamberlain, clinician, and Dr. Jacquelin Cossette, clinician. Dr Chamberlain discusses the health needs of Aboriginal communities in Northwestern Quebec, specifically alcohol related physical health and violence related issues. Dr. Cossette makes a variety of recommendations to enhance the overall health of Aboriginal communities, and the need to provide francophone equivalents of some English educational materials. Following this the assembled Commissioners discuss community health related topics with the two practitioners.

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 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 Ernest Beck. Beck discusses social and child services arrangements in James and Hudson Bay communities. Specifically he discusses his organization Paykotayno, which was designated a Children's Aid Society in April, 1987. Following the presentation Commissioner Erasmus discusses the composition of Beck's organization with him.

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.

The file contains a presentation by Evelyn Ballantyne. Ballantyne discusses Bill C-31 and its effects on the lives of Aboriginal women in Manitoba with reference to housing, discrimination, lack of consultation of women on major political decisions, and the Charlottetown Accord referendum. Edith Young discusses women's and general Aboriginal issues including loss of culture and language, violence and residential schooling, family violence, the need for financial aid, the need for healing lodges, alcoholism, and political corruption at the band level.

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 Geraldine Sebastian focusing on education and social issues. Government funding cuts to education and band peacekeeping programs have adversely affected her community. Sebastian states the Hagwilget community wishes self-sufficiency and calls on the Commission to assist in her community's battle to educate and help its residents. Following the presentation is a question-and-answer session with the Commissioners.

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 Gordon Peters, Regional Chief, Chiefs of Ontario. Peters discusses his organization and its goals in representing the First Nations of Ontario including self-governance, the need to administer their own social services programs, land claims in terms of reclamation of what was lost, and problems with intergovernmental relations. Following the presentation are questions and comments by Comissioners Erasmus, Robinson, Blakeney, and Wilson which Peters addresses.

File contains a presentation by Grace Delaney. Delaney discusses her personal spiritual views and gives her perspective on the need to "recognize the misdeeds that people are doing in our communities."

The file contains a presentation by Hari Dimitrakopoulon, Northern Women's Development Network. Dimitrakopoulon discusses a report submitted to the Commission on women's economic development. Dimitrakopoulon highlights some of the content of the report which deals specifically with the socio-economic position of Aboriginal women in Northern Manitoba, and some of the reasons behind that position going back to pre-European contact days. Following the presentation Commissioners Chartrand and Wilson discuss some of the reports findings with Dimitrakopoulin.

File contains a presentation by Harold Joe. He discusses land claims in the area and his own familiy's participation in the land rights struggle. Joe also refers to a legal paper he has given to the Commissioners. Commissioners Chief Percy Joe and Dussault thank Harold Joe for his contribution.