ANNUAL REPORT2006 / 2007

“As long as the Sunshines, the Grass growsand the Rivers flow”

TreatyRelations

Commission of Manitoba

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Greetings from AMC .................................................................. 3

Message from the Treaty Commissioner ................................... 4

Executive Summary .................................................................. 5

About The Treaty Relations Commission................................... 6Principles .......................................................................... 6

Role of Treaty Relations Commission ............................. 6

TRCM Accountability Framework ................................. 7

Progress Report .......................................................................... 8Grand Opening ................................................................. 8

Three-Year Curriculum/Public Education Strategy ...... 8

Treaty Educational Video.................................................. 9

Speakers Bureau ............................................................... 9

Elders Council ................................................................... 10

Manitoba Treaties Oral History Project.......................... 10

Academic Researchers Think Tank ................................ 12

TRCM/TLE Communication Strategy Working Group ....... 13

TRCM Presentations ........................................................ 14

Partnerships ..................................................................... 15

Next Steps ................................................................................... 17

Manitoba Treaty Map ................................................................ 18

GREETINGS FROM AMC

On behalf of the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs I would like to extend mycongratulations to the Treaty Relations Commission of Manitoba(TRCM) for all the good work that has been done over the past year. Weare proud of the accomplishments of the TRCM and are pleased with therole we have played in assisting the TRCM in meeting its mandateincluding a Protocol Agreement signed between the AMC and theTRCM on the Manitoba Treaties Oral Histories Research Project(signed in July 2006) which was both innovative and productive.Together we conducted five Treaty Elder Focus Groups and a number offollow up interviews with individual Treaty Elders.

Since the signing of the TRCM Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) in2003, the MOA Parties have been instrumental in ensuring the successof the Treaty Commission. I want to extend a thank you to the following members of the Joint TechnicalWorking Group and Joint Senior Officials Committee:

Technical Working Group (TWG):Dennis White Bird, Treaty Commissioner, TRCMJennefer Nepinak, Executive Director, TRCMIrene Linklater, Director of Research & Policy Development, AMCGail Flett, Interim Treaties Relations Coordinator, AMCVictoria De La Ronde, Director, Treaty Policy Directorate, INAC HeadquartersEdmond Constantineau, Senior Manager, Treaty Policy Directorate, INAC HeadquartersSandra Wabegijig, Manager, Treaty Policy Directorate, INAC HeadquartersPenelope Epp, Manager, Governance Programs, Government Directorate, INAC Manitoba Region

Joint Senior Officials Committee (includes TWG):Elder representative, AMC Council of EldersChief Morris Shannacappo, AMC Treaties Portfolio ChiefBill Traverse, Political Advisor, Grand Chief’s Office, AMCLorne Cochrane, former AMC Executive DirectorMaureen McPhee, Director General, Self-Gov’t Branch, Claims & Indian Gov’t, INAC HeadquartersMary Blais, Regional Director General, INAC Manitoba RegionRick Kosmik, Agreements Coordinator, Aboriginal & Northern Affairs, Province of Manitoba

We are pleased that the AMC Council of Elders has provided the TRCM with support, and invaluable guid-ance and knowledge about the history of Manitoba Treaties and traditional knowledge.

We continue to strongly support the mandate and work of the TRCM in bringing the Treaty Partners togeth-er to reach our common goals. The work to date has been beneficial to both parties, the Crown and FirstNations in Manitoba, and we look forward to another fruitful year.

Sincerely,

ASSEMBLY OF MANITOBA CHIEFSGrand Chief Ron Evans

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MESSAGE FROM THE COMMISSIONER

“For as long as the sun shines the grass grows and the rivers flow”

Our first full year of operation produced many exciting opportunitiesand interesting challenges.

In meeting the obligations of our workplan and budget in the 2006-2007fiscal year the TRCM has worked to address all aspects of our mandate.

In the past year, the Commission has been involved in various opportu-nities promoting relationship building between First Nations, and fed-eral and provincial governments. We are truly proud of the opportuni-ty to participate in the Treaty 1 – 11 Gathering held at Lower FortGarry. Currently, the Commission continues to initiate discussionswith all levels of governments to secure understanding of the Crownand First Nations Treaty relationship. In my humble opinion; fosteringunderstanding, through dialogue will lead First Nations and Canadians to greater mutual respect that will,hopefully, create greater Treaty recognition and affirmation.

During the past year, the Commission has concentrated its efforts in the public education sector and we haveaccepted numerous speaking engagements from all sectors of the political, social and economic communityin Manitoba. The feedback generated from our public education process has been very positive and has beenreceived with increasing interest. The public education strategy is designed to foster greater understanding,relationship building and a renewal of trust and mutual respect.

Our public education curricula to date attempts to present ‘common understandings’ of Treaty, the Treatyrelationship and Treaty obligations in the oral and written context. In many cases, these common under-standings were researched through federal government and First Nations partnerships, the RoyalCommission on Aboriginal Peoples, legal decisions, and specific and comprehensive land claims. The TRCMlooks forward to the next fiscal year in advancing major research proposals.

Finally, TRCM has undertaken a facilitation approach to Treaty Land Entitlement. We have initiated dis-cussions with the Treaty Land Entitlement Committee, the federal government and the provincial govern-ment to discuss the potential role of the Commission in communication and/or public education as it relatesto the TLE process.

In conclusion, I would like to thank Judge Arnot and the staff of the Office of the Treaty Commissioner ofSaskatchewan for their support and knowledge-sharing that has been so crucial to the work the TRCM hasdone and will do in the future. Having seen the good work that the OTC has done, the TRCM is optimisticthat it can have a positive impact on Treaty relations in Manitoba and beyond.

We would also like to thank our principals: the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs and the Government of Canadafor their support and guidance throughout the TRCM’s first complete year. Staff from both the AMC andCanada has offered not only their support but have offered encouragement and positive feedback that havehelped the TRCM through its growing pains.

Kitchi-Miigwetch to TRCM staff all those who have helped support the Treaty Relations Commission ofManitoba. Thank you for helping us spread the message that; “We are all Treaty People”.

Sincerely,

Dennis White Bird,Treaty Commissioner

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At the grand opening of the TRCM, Treaty Commissioner DennisWhite Bird was wrapped in a blanket and marched around the

assembled audience in order to fulfill First Nation protocolsregarding the acceptance of such an important role.

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

For the 2006-2007 year, the Treaty RelationsCommission of Manitoba has made great stridestowards the promotion of a greater understandingof Treaties and the Treaty relationship. Over thecourse of the year, the TRCM has been involved inseveral different initiatives which aim to furtherTreaty knowledge.

As part of the TRCM’s mandate, throughout the2006-2007 year, the TRCM has been heavilyinvolved in promoting partnerships with variousorganizations, particularly those with a focus oneducation. Working on research projects in tandemwith other organizations has been shown to helpreduce overall project costs for the organization, aswell as build strong Treaty research networks.Through involvement in various conferences,workshops and presentations the TRCM has beenable to promote its mandate, as well as educate thepublic about Treaties and the Treaty relationship.Most excitedly, the TRCM successfully staged aweekend long Academic Researchers Think Tankwhere Treaty scholars from across Western Canadashared their expertise with the TRCM. Positivefeedback received thus far has convinced the TRCMof the need to consider future Think Tank sessions.

One of our larger initiatives conducted in partner-ship with the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs, theOral History Project, has been initiated to studythe rich oral history of Manitoba’s First Nationspeoples. Through partnerships with First Nationcommunities, the project is proceeding accordingto target. All the Treaty areas of Manitoba areinvolved in the discussion.

Commissioner Dennis White Bird has beeninvolved in promoting the TRCM through variouspresentations aimed at varying audiences, includ-ing schools and Manitoba First Nation leadership.Work on Treaty Land Entitlement discussions arealso proceeding as planned, as are EducationWorking Groups.

The Commission has also worked towards thedevelopment of a Treaty educational video and alsoworked extensively with various post-secondaryeducation institutions to promote Treaty education.

Throughout the 2006-2007 year, the TRCM alsoworked towards expanding its impact, reach and

role within Manitoba and First Nation govern-ments, education systems and general public.

Looking towards the future, the TRCM intends toimplement a long-term Treaty research strategywhich envisions major studies into priorityresearch areas. The studies will occur in strategicphases starting in 2007 and continuing to 2010.Through an in-depth consultative process, theCommission engaged in dialogue with variousgroups to find out where research gaps exist.Through the use of in-house researchers, commis-sioned scholars and collaborative work, the TRCMforesees major breakthroughs in Treaty research.

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ABOUT THE TREATY RELATIONS COMMISSION

On November 19, 2003, the Assembly of ManitobaChiefs (AMC) and the Government of Canadasigned an historic Memorandum of Agreement(MOA) that recognized the need for the establish-ment of a Treaty Relations Commission inManitoba (TRCM) to address Treaty issues. Thisagreement is intended to be inclusiveof all First Nation communities inManitoba. In June 2005, through anOrder-in-Council, the TreatyRelations Commission of Manitobawas created. On June 1, 2005, DennisWhite Bird was appointed asCommissioner of the newly formedTRCM.

The TRCM is a neutral body, createdthrough a partnership between theAMC and Canada, with a mandate tostrengthen, rebuild and enhance theTreaty relationship and mutualrespect between First Nations andManitobans. The Commission will enhance andmaintain positive intergovernmental relations andcooperation, conduct independent research thatadvances discussion on Treaty related issues, andfacilitate public understanding of the importanceand role of Treaty making in building a strongerand healthier nation.

TRCM PRINCIPLES

The Parties and Treaty Relations Commissionshall be guided by the following principles:

• The Treaties are a fundamental part of the rela-tionship between First Nations Treaty signato-ries and the Crown;

• The involvement of First Nation Elders is funda-mental to understanding treaty relationships;

• Respect for treaty and inherent Aboriginal rightsis an important part of maintaining the honor ofthe Crown in its relations with First Nations;

• Recognition that the treaty relationship isdynamic and will evolve over time;

• That the Treaty Relations Commission shall bebased on mutual respect, and operate at armslength from the parties as a neutral body;

• Recognition that in order to advance the Treatyrelationship it will be necessary for the Parties toshare information and fully participate in theprocess; and

• Other principles may be added asmutually agreed to by the Parties.

ROLE OF THE TREATY RELATIONS COMMISSION

The Treaty Relations Commissionwill assist the Parties in exploringtheir respective understandings ofTreaty and in identifying areas ofcommon understanding throughresearch, information-sharing ses-sions and collection of historicaltreaty narratives.

The Treaty Relations Commission will worktowards enhancing the treaty relationship throughthese identified common understandings.

Without restricting the mandate of the TreatyRelations Commission or Commissioner, under-standings of Treaty issues that may be explored bythe Parties, through oral history, traditionalknowledge and archival information, include, butare not limited to, the following Treaty relatedissues:

1. Social issues including: child & family, educa-tion, housing & health;

2. Economic issues including: lands & resources,hunting, fishing, trapping, gathering;

3. Governance;4. Adherents to Treaties;5. Any other treaty-related issue as agreed upon

by the Parties; and6. The inclusion of any subject matter is without

prejudice to the respective position of theParties on the content, scope or existence ofany Treaty right or any assertion by a FirstNation that they are covered by any existingTreaty.

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“The Treaty Relations Commission ofManitoba will be a constructive forum for dis-

cussion and education on historic Treatiesand Treaty issues. This spirit of dialogue canonly strengthen the good relations amongst

Canadians from all backgrounds.”

- Jim Prentice, Minister of Indian Affairs andNorthern Development.

TRCM ACCOUNTABILITY FRAMEWORK

The following organizational chart reflects the cur-rent governance structure of the TRCM:

Within this structure, the Grand Chief of the AMCand the Minister of Indian and Northern Affairshave overall responsibility for the work of theTreaty Commissioner.

THE TRCM IS ALSO ACCOUNTABLE TO:

• A Joint Steering Official Committee (JSOC)will be comprised of representatives of theGovernment of Canada and the AMC. TheGovernment of Canada will be represented bythe Director General, Treaties, and theRegional Director General, Manitoba Region.The AMC will be represented by two seniorofficials, appointed in accordance with theirConstitution and where agreed to by the par-ties a representative of Manitoba in accordancewith Section 9.0 of the MOA. The JSOC willmeet bi-annually, or as required, with theTRCM to provide guidance and advice to theTRCM.

• A Technical Working Group (TWG) comprisedof members representatives of the Governmentof Canada, AMC and the TRCM. TheGovernment of Canada will be represented byan official representative of the Treaty PolicyDirectorate and an official representative fromthe Manitoba region office. The TRCM will berepresented by the Executive Director. TheAMC will be represented by a designated rep-resentative. Where agreed to by the parties, arepresentative of Manitoba in accordance with

Section 9.0 of the MOA. The TreatyCommissioner may participate as required.The TWG will provide support work to theTRCM and the JSOC.

It is important to note that while the MOA creat-ing the TRCM identifies an OperationalManagement Committee (OMC) as part of theoriginating governance framework, it was agreedby all parties that the roles and responsibilities ofthe OMC should be incorporated into the overallroles and responsibilities of the JSOC.Amendments reflecting this decision were madeeffective March 31, 2007 and are now incorporatedwithin the current structure as noted above.

Students from Winnipeg’s Niji Mahkwa School take part in a drum song during the grand opening of the Treaty

Relations Commission of Manitoba.

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PROGRESS REPORT

Throughout the 2006/2007 fiscal year, the TRCMhas been very active in working on various projectswhich aim to rebuild and enhance the Treaty rela-tionship and promote Treaty education. Here aresome of the notable accomplishments achieved todate:

GRAND OPENING

On May 17, 2006, members of the public and themedia were invited to attend the official openingand commemorative ceremony of Canada’s newestTreaty Commission. The ceremony was held at theLower Fort Garry National Historic Site to com-memorate where the first of the NumberedTreaties was signed. The event attracted represen-tatives from all of Manitoba’s Treaty areas.

Dignitaries, Elders, representatives from FirstNation organizations and government leadershipwere all in attendance at the historic event. Thosein attendance were educated about the TRCM’smandate to strengthening Treaty relations;enhance inter-governmental cooperation; addressthe legacy of misunderstanding with independentresearch and public education; and explore thesocial, economic and governance matters that areat the heart of Treaty relations.

TRCM THREE-YEAR CURRICULUM/PUBLIC EDUCATION STRATEGY

In order to fulfill its mandate, the TRCM will workin partnership to increase the knowledge base ofgrassroots First Nation and non-First NationCanadians about the role of the Treaties in theestablishment of Canada. The benefits of this goalinclude, improved relationships between FirstNations and Canadians and a better understand-ing in the general public about Canada’s history.

The TRCM is currently engaged with theAssembly of Manitoba Chiefs (AMC)/ManitobaEducation Citizenship and Youth (MECY) workinggroup. As a member of the working group, theTRCM is working towards enhancing the educa-tion of all Manitobans on the Treaty relationshipand First Nation issues. The group also works oncommunicating issues that impact First Nationlearners and reviews and makes recommendationson strategies regarding education issues thatrelate to First Nation people and history.

During 2006-2007, the TRCM developed a threeyear Curriculum/Public Education Strategy thatproposes a series of steps that lead to the creationof a lesson plan in the first year, a historical atlasin the third year, and a dialogue-induced commu-nication plan throughout. For the lesson plan tohave maximum impact, it will be accompaniedwith a public communications strategy as well asyearly events that support the message of the les-son plan, curriculum and the mandate of theTRCM.

"As Treaties are the legal basis for therelationship between First Nations andCanadians, it is important that every-

one in Canada understands the rights,benefits and obligations they were

granted through the Treaty process.By increasing the understanding of theTreaty relationship, the TRCM will be

promoting beneficial and healthyrelationships between Canadians

and First Nations."

- Grand Chief Ron Evans of Assemblyof Manitoba Chiefs (AMC)

The grand opening of the Treaty Relations Commission of Manitobawas held at the Fort Garry Historical Site in May 2006. Treaty

Commissioner Dennis White Bird speaks to the those gathered forthe opening about the importance of understanding the spirit and

intent of the Treaties and the Treaty relationship.

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The plan will be discussed with the AMC/MECYworking group to ensure that it fits within thegoals of the AMC, the provincial government,other members and TRCM parties.

Ultimately, the three-year strategy is intended toplace the TRCM as a player in curriculum develop-ment in Manitoba and outlines how theCommission can fulfill its mandate by creatingeducational supports for changes in the Manitobacurriculum. By educating Canadians on the sig-nificance and content of the Treaties it may be pos-sible to better realize the full spirit and intent ofthese binding documents.

TREATY EDUCATIONAL VIDEO

In 2006/2007 the TRCM worked with ChikakCommunications to develop a Treaty educationalvideo, suitable for viewing by all Manitobans. Thegoals and objectives for the video are consistentwith those of the TRCM mandate.

To begin the process of creating the video, theTRCM took the initiative of recording and docu-menting a day at the National Indian Treaties 1-11 Gathering held at the at the historic Lower FortGarry site in August 2006. The gathering that tookplace from July 31st to August 3rd, 2006 and con-cluded on the anniversary date when Treaty #1was negotiated between Indian representativesand the Crown at the historic Fort Garry site.

With plans to create a video that would have bothhistoric information and contemporary updates,the TRCM recorded the event to document theimportance of Treaties and the Treaty relation-ship. Several aspects from the gathering wererecorded from the historic site itself to keynoteaddresses from speakers, such as the TreatyCommissioner Dennis White Bird, First Nationleaders, Elders and members of the public.

The video remains a work in progress and isexpected to be completed in 2007. The video isdesigned to play an integral role in public educa-tion on Treaties and the Treaty relationship.

SPEAKERS BUREAU

As part of its mandate to participate in Treatypublic education, the TRCM is seeking to developa TRCM Speakers Bureau, a public service provid-ed by the TRCM as a resource to all groups whowant to learn about Treaty. By invitation, speak-ers of the TRCM Speakers Bureau will go intoclassrooms, boardrooms and other environmentsto provide Treaty Information Sessions to groupswho are interested in learning about Treaties andTreaty related issues.

In these developmental stages, the TRCM hasresearched other speakers bureaus, including theOffice of the Treaty Commissioner (OTC) inSaskatchewan speakers bureau. Reviewing othermodels was an important consideration during thedevelopment of the guiding principles. Some prelim-inary speakers were identified and have been invit-ed to the TRCM office to be introduced to one anoth-er and be presented with the concept of the TRCMSpeakers Bureau in its planning stage.

Several Speakers Bureau planning meetings fol-lowed in 2006/2007. In early 2007, the TRCMstaff and OTC Speakers Bureau staff had theopportunity to get together. TRCM was given anoverview of the OTC’s Speakers Bureau by co-ordi-nator Colleen Cameron. The overview was fol-lowed by a model presentation by OTC SpeakersBureau member Lynden Linklater. The presenta-tions gave an optimistic insight into the future ofManitoba’s TRCM Speakers Bureau and the edu-cation that could be relayed through the serviceTRCM seeks to ultimately provide.

Renata Marsden was hired as the Communications Coordinator throughthe 2006-2007 year. Ms. Marsden brought her experience in

communications to the TRCM and worked to assist in planning,organizing and promoting a number of TRCM events and initiatives.

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The TRCM was given full support by the OTC inthis initiative and the OTC provided extensiveexperience and knowledge to help ensureManitoba’s efforts for a Speakers Bureau are suc-cessful. We are truly grateful to TreatyCommissioner Judge Arnot and the OTC staff fortheir support throughout this past year.

While further work remains, the Commissionanticipates an official launch of the TRCMSpeakers Bureau in the near future.

ELDERS COUNCIL

The Elders Council plays a significant role inadvising the Treaty Commissioner and in TRCMactivities. The Terms of Reference for the EldersCouncil, created by the Assembly of ManitobaChiefs (dated March 2, 2005), outlines their rolesand responsibilities. In the fall and winter of 2006the Elders Council had regular two day meetingson a monthly basis to provide guidance and adviceon a wide range of issues arising out of the TRCMmandate: research, public education, discussiontable planning, oral history, traditional knowl-edge, cultural teachings, values, laws, ceremoniesand local protocols. The Elders also shared theirperspectives on the spirit and intent of theTreaties, international First Nation relations andtheir role in assisting various TRCM activities.The TRCM thanks the Elders for their wisdom,support, invaluable insight and for keeping thetraditions strong.

The Elders Council also plays a very importantrole in the Manitoba Oral Histories Project. Theyguide and assist in the planning and facilitation ofthe Treaty Elders focus groups and follow-upinterviews and provide invaluable traditional andTreaty knowledge and oral histories during theirregularly scheduled meetings.

MANITOBA TREATIES ORAL HISTORY PROJECT

The Manitoba Treaties Oral History Project (OHP)is a collaborative research project between theTreaty Relations Commission of Manitoba and theAssembly of Manitoba Chiefs.

Despite some early delays, the project was able toget off the ground and onto considerable successwith the signing of the TRCM-AMC ProtocolAgreement in July 2006; the hiring of the AMCTreaty Researcher Darren Courchene inSeptember 2006; and the establishment of theAMC Research Coordinator position.

The project completed its Treaty 2 focus groupswith Elders in the Narrows (Treaty 2 territory) onMarch 19-21st, with the next focus groups beingcompleted on March 30th and 31st with DakotaElders in Brandon, Manitoba.

The focus groups have been held with Elders inTreaty areas 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and in the Dakota territo-ries to research Treaty and First Nation oralknowledge. Of significance is that many of these

The Council members represent each of the

Treaty regions and the Dakota Oyate in the

province as follows:

Treaty No. 1, Morris Merrick/Wayne Scott

Treaty No. 2, Harry Bone

Treaty No. 3, Helen Cobiness

Treaty No. 4, Mervin Huntinghawk

Treaty No. 5, Leonard York

Treaty No. 5, D’Arcy Linklater

Treaty No. 6, Angus Linklater

Treaty No. 10, Willie Loone

Dakota Nations, Doris Pratt

AMC Grand Chief Ron Evans and Treaty Commissioner DennisWhite Bird sign the protocol agreement that initiated the begin-

ning of the Oral History Project, which will gather the FirstNation perspective on the Treaties and the Treaty relationship.

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Elders from the Treaty 2 and 4 areas met in Wasagaming (ClearLake), MB to share their knowledge of First Nation history and the

signing of their Treaties.

AMC-TRCM MANITOBA TREATIES ORAL HISTORY RESEARCH PROJECT

The Manitoba Treaties Oral History ResearchProject (OHP) is a collaborative projectbetween the TRCM and the AMC. Since thesigning of the protocol between AMC and theTRCM in July 2006, the Oral History Project(OHP) has conducted five Treaty Elders FocusGroups:

• Treaty No. 2 & 4 (Riding Mountain region),October 23-25, 2006, Wasagaming.

• Treaty No. 1 (Sagkeeng), November 20-22,2006, Powerview.

• Treaty No. 5 (Lake Winnipeg East & South),February 27-March 1, 2007, Gimli.

• Treaty No. 2 (Interlake), March 19-21, 2007,The Narrows.

• Dakota First Nations, March 30-31, 2007,Brandon.

The Focus Groups are two days in length. Theyare opened with prayers and/or a Pipe ceremo-ny, welcoming remarks from local Chiefs, theTreaty Commissioner and a member of theElders’ Council who also serves as facilitator.So far, Harry Bone, Doris Pratt and WayneScott have facilitated. To date, a total of 50Elders have participated in the five focusgroups. All the proceedings are conducted intheir traditional languages while translatorsprovide simultaneous translations for those onthe research team who do not speak the locallanguage. The proceedings are recorded, andafter they are translated and transcribed, fol-low up interviews are conducted with individ-ual Elders.

The project is also doing research into existingFirst Nations oral history collections and isseeking historical photographs that reflect theTreaty relationships here in Manitoba. TheOHP Research Team consists of: Gail Flett,AMC Treaty Relations Coordinator; Dr.Winona Wheeler, Lead Researcher, and;Darren Courchene, AMC Treaty RelationsResearcher.

The Treaty 1 Elders that participated in Oral History Project as partof the Elders Focus Group held in Powerview, MB.

meetings were held in traditional First Nation lan-guages, including Cree and Anishnaabeg andDakota. Those conducting the project have held atotal of 11 follow-up meetings with Elders from thefocus groups.

The TRCM believes this project will assist the par-ties in better understanding the Treaty relation-ship, and First Nations perspectives on theTreaties, as well as guide future Treaty curricu-lum development. The TRCM intends to enter intoadditional collaborative research projects and is cur-rently identifying a number of potential partners.

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ACADEMIC RESEARCHERS THINK TANK

On January 26-28, 2007, the TRCM hosted anAcademic Researchers Think Tank. This weekend-long meeting brought together the most importantoral history researchersfrom across Canada. Wewere fortunate to haveattracted many of the lead-ing academic scholarsengaged in scholarly andcommissioned Treatyresearch in Canada. It isalso worth mentioning thatevery scholar invited bothconfirmed and attended.

Research ethics of; objectivi-ty, neutrality, advocacy andresponsibility, were allareas of discussion, as wasthe mandate of the TRCMand its own role in Treatyresearch.

Feedback from those who attended the ThinkTank indicated that participants found in intellec-tually stimulating and valuable. In follow up dis-cussions, mention was made of developing futureThink Tank sessions.

TRCM TREATY

RESEARCHERS THINK TANK

The overall goal of the Treaty ResearchersThink Tank (January 27-28, 2007) was to assistthe TRCM in the development of its independ-ent research strategy. The objectives were tobring together some of the leading Treatyresearch scholars in Western Canada to reviewthe current state of Treaty research, assess theknown gaps in our Treaty research knowledge,and provide recommendations on a range ofTreaty research issues.

The proceedings commenced with an openingprayer and welcoming addresses from theTreaty Commissioner, Elder Harry Bone andWinona Wheeler. Over the course of two daysthe Think Tank participants watched presenta-tions by Drs. Arthur Ray, Jim Miller and FrankTough. The discussions that followed were live-ly and stimulating as each participant respond-ed with additional insights and feedback. In theend we were presented with the most up-to-datedevelopments in scholarly and commissionedTreaty research in Western Canada as well as awide range of Treaty research questions andproject ideas.

SOME TREATY RESEARCH AREAS

DISCUSSED AT THINK TANK

PROCEEDINGS

1) Dr. Jim Miller, “The State of the Art in

Treaty Studies.”

2) Dr. Arthur Ray, “Crown-First Nations

Relations as Established by the Hudson

Bay Company.”

3) Dr. Arthur Ray, “Evidentiary Issues

Concerning Historical Research for Treaty

Claims and Litigation.”

4) Dr. Frank Tough, “Treaty Rights and the

Natural Resource Transfer Agreements.”

Between January 26-28, 2007, the TRCM successfully staged a week-end long Researchers Think Tank where Treaty scholars and someof the best minds in the area of oral history research, from across

Western Canada, shared their expertise with the TRCM.

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TRCM/TLE COMMUNICATION STRATEGY WORKING GROUP

As part of its mandate, the TRCM has workedtowards the development of a TRCM/TLECommunication Strategy Working Group.Currently, the working group is exploringthe possibilities of a creating a communi-cations strategy developed by all the rele-vant parties, including, the First Nations,represented through the Treaty LandEntitlement Committee, the province, andIndian and Northern Affairs Canada.

The purpose of a communications strategyfocused on TLE and TLE fulfillment is tocreate a level of understanding on TLEand land transfers in First Nation andnon-First Nation community leaders, gov-ernment officials and staff, business andindustry, and the general population.

As a neutral body, the TRCM would take afacilitation role in the project; helping theparties carry out their plans and decisionsin regards to the communication strategy.The TRCM is already developing a comprehensiveresearch, communication and public educationstrategy regarding the role, histories, and spirit andintent of the Treaties. The Working Group is meant

to focus specifically on the issues surroundingTreaty Land Entitlement and its place as the finalstep in resolving treaty land obligations.

All parties agree that the resolution ofland obligations, and the completion ofoutstanding TLEs, benefits allCanadians. They also agree that the TLEprocess has been cast in a negative lightas of late and this needs to be addressedin order to smooth the way for futureTLE fulfillment.

The Working Group is currently meetingon a monthly basis to find areas of commonground. As the parties have mandates thatcan create conflicting perspectives, it isimportant that the TRCM act as a facilita-tor for the parties in order to make sure theproject reaches its fulfillment.

Once common ground is defined, it willthen be necessary to create a concise mes-sage that will deliver the impact that is

wanted. The challenge for the TRCM is to help theparties find a way to craft and deliver that messagein a way that is educational and respectful of alltheir separate positions.

With the message created, theWorking Group will then have tofind appropriate venues to deliverthat message. This may involve theuse of financial and staff resourcesfrom all the parties. The partieshave stated that they are interestedin having the TRCM continue to actas a facilitator into the 2007-2008year, in an effort to produce an effec-tive communications campaign andnot put undue pressure on the ‘out-side’ working relationships of theparties. Discussions are ongoing.

The TRCM and Treaty Relations Commissioner have worked hard to promote the work of theTRCM and spread the message that, “We are All Treaty People”. Being available to the

media is a necessary step in educating the public about the Treaty relationship and how itspresence in current events.

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helped facilitate meetings between the Gathering’sorganizers and potential sponsors such asManitoba Hydro.

On September 22, CommissionerDennis White Bird, and TRCMStaff attended the Council ofDeans and Directors ofEducation for Manitoba (COD-DEM) meeting at Red RiverCollege campus in Winnipeg.This annual meeting is held byand for the CODDEM. Leadprovincial and post-secondaryeducation officials were inattendance and were presentedwith an introduction of theTreaty Relations Commission ofManitoba and the importance ofTreaty education at all levels inthe province. Key education offi-cials were provided with theTRCM mandate.

In early October, the TRCM and AMC Grand ChiefRon Evans met to continue dialogue and enhancethe Treaty relationship. To continue its role tofunction at an arms length of the parties, theTRCM gave an update on current developmentsand initiatives. Grand Chief Evans and the TRCMworked towards scheduled meetings of the partiesand First Nations leaders to increase communica-tions and development of Treaty issue platforms to

TRCM PRESENTATIONS

The Treaty Commissioner and TRCM staff haveparticipated in many conferences, workshops andforums over the past year presenting informationabout the Treaties and the significance of theTreaty relationship. The followingare just a few noteworthy examples:

In the first week of September,Commissioner Dennis White Birdattended the National Gathering ofElders in the Whiteshell ProvincialPark. Entitled, “Igniting the Fire,Gathering Wisdom from allNations” the gathering focused onIndigenous knowledge and associat-ed areas such as health, culture,language retention and reclamationof sacred sites. Commissioner WhiteBird was provided the opportunityto present to participants fromacross Manitoba, Canada and theworld on Treaty awareness, theTreaty relationship and the TRCM.The successful event ran from September 5th to8th and was organized by the Turtle Lodge(Anishnabe Mikinack Kinamakamik, Inc.) andSagkeeng Employment & Training Services. TheTreaty Relations Commission of Manitoba wouldlike to thank Dave Courchene and all of the organ-izers and supporters for the opportunity of TRCMparticipation and for delivering this very impor-tant event. The 2007 Igniting the Fire Gatheringwill again be held in September. The TRCM has

The Igniting the Fire Gathering is a spiritual and unifying eventthat brings together First Nation and indigenous people from

across Canada, North America and the world. These attendees ofthe Gathering had travelled all the way from Peru.

“Ultimately, theTRCM continuesto extend the

invitation to meetwith anyone who

would like todiscuss Treaty

issues and worktowards enhancing

the important Treatyrelationship.”

In January 2007, the Treaty Commissioner gave a presentation onthe mandate and role of the TRCM to the Chiefs in attendance at

an Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs General Assembly.

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and researchers from across Manitoba and Canadato build a focused and progressive strategy forTreaty research.

In the fall of 2006, the TRCMinvited Dr. Peter Kulchyski, for-mer head of the Native StudiesDepartment at the University ofManitoba, to make a presenta-tion on Treaty history at theTRCM office. Dr. Kulchyski, Dr.Jarvis Brownlie, Dr. KathleenBuddle-Crowe and their associateuniversity professors are con-ducting an oral history researchproject in northern Manitoba inpartnership with the KeewatinTribal Council (KTC).

The TRCM has extended an invi-tation to Dr. Kulchyski and theproject’s research team to meetwith the TRCM, and Dr. WinonaWheeler of TRCM/AMC’s oral

history project to build relationships within theTreaty research community, share insights andlook at possible future ways of partnering. Dr.Janet Armstrong, a researcher with theNishnawbe Aski Nation (NAN), also participatedin a meeting of researchers this past November.Dr. Armstrong participated in oral history projectsin Treaty 9 and Treaty 5 territories in Ontario andparts of northeastern Manitoba.

pursue into the future. In January 2007, TreatyCommissioner Dennis White Bird made aPowerPoint presentation to the AMC Chiefs inAssembly that summarized the TRCM mandate,history, and role in the Treaty rela-tionship.

The TRCM also continues to worktowards building relationshipswith individual First Nation com-munities. Commissioner WhiteBird has met with a number ofleaders from First Nations to makepresentations on TRCM initiativesas well as to discuss Treaty issuesthat affect their regions.

Ultimately, the TRCM continues toextend the invitation to meet withanyone who would like to discussTreaty issues and work towardsenhancing the important Treatyrelationship.

PARTNERSHIPS

The TRCM is very proud to be making greatstrides in building key relationships with educa-tional institutions and researchers in order to pro-mote understanding of Treaties and the Treatyrelationship. As part of its mandate to researchTreaties, the TRCM has been working closely withgovernments, the AMC, leadership, communities

In August 2006, the Treaties 1-11 Gathering was held at the HotelFort Garry. Treaty Commissioner White Bird congratulated ChiefOvide Mercredi, of the Misipawistik Cree Nation, on his election to

the role of spokesperson for Treaty 1-11 organization.

Kathy Boulanger, a TRCM staff member, maintains the TRCM infor-mation booth set up at the AMC General Assembly. The informa-tion booth is a good way of reaching out to groups attending gath-

erings, events or conferences.

“The TRCM is veryproud to be making

great strides inbuilding key

relationships witheducational

institutions andresearchers in

order to promoteunderstanding of

Treaties”

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conference, the workshop on Treaties and theTreaty Relations Commission of Manitoba reachedabout 100 participants who attended the confer-ence. In conjunction with facilitating the Treatyworkshop, Commissioner White Bird encouraged allparticipants to bring their Treaty awareness to class-rooms across Manitoba and to promote discussionsabout Treaties with students.

On October 20, the Manitoba First NationsEducation Resource Centre (MFNERC) hosted the“Circle of Knowledge” conference at theMarlborough Hotel in Winnipeg. The TRCM waspleased to have participated by facilitating a work-shop and displaying Treaty information. One ofmany successful and well-attended sessions of the

QUICK FACTS: • There are 64 First Nation Communities in Manitoba

• There are 150, 045 First Nation people living in Manitoba • There are over 5 First Nation languages spoken in Manitoba • There are over 50 First Nation languages spoken in Canada

• There are 633 First Nation Communities in Canada • First Nations people represent 2.1% of Canada's population

• Over 50% of First Nations people in Canada are under the age of 25

~ Source: 2001 Census Profile; Registered Indian Population by Sex and Residence, 2002 –Indian & Northern Affairs Canada.

Grand Chief Chris Henderson of the Southern Chiefs Organization presents the Treaty Commissioner with a plaque thanking the TRCM for its support for the Treaty 1-11 Gathering.

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NEXT STEPS

Looking into the future, the TRCM is poised todeliver a major and comprehensive research proj-ect into Treaties. This proposed three year Treatyresearch strategy has been prepared by Dr.Winona Wheeler, the TRCM research strategist.The research strategy proposal itself arises out ofthe research mandate of the TRCM, whichinvolves the conducting of independent andfocused research to advance discussions of Treaty-related issues.

The research strategy identifies six Treatyresearch priority areas through the consultativeactivities of the Treaty Commissioner over thepast year. The proposal is identified, but not limit-ed to, providing a preliminary map of the TRCMresearch strategy over the long term (2007-2010).The long term research strategy is broken downinto three incremental phases:

Phase 1 (2007-2008): Survey-“The State ofKnowledge”

Phase 2 (2008-2009): Directed Research

Phase 3 (2009-2010): Consolidation-“CommonUnderstanding”

The majority of research projects developed forPhase 1 are exploratory in nature. The primarygoal of these projects is to survey the current stateof knowledge on a range of Treaty research areas.These projects serve as the foundation for curriculumdevelopment and public education materials onTreaties and the Treaty relationship.

The development of Phase 2 will involve a range ofprioritized directed primary or original researchprojects. During Phase 3, the research findingsresulting from Phase 1 and Phase 2 will be consol-idated into a number of deliverables.

The number of specific research project sugges-tions provided to the TRCM was extensive andwide-ranging. The TRCM Treaty research strategyis multifaceted. It encompasses a range of researchactivities that can be undertaken as collaborative(inter-agency), in-house (TRCM staff) and/or ascommissioned research projects. The collaborativeapproach will consist of entering into partnerships orprotocols with other agencies that are of or are intend-ing to conduct Treaty research. The collaborativeapproach not only reduces overall costs of the project,but it also provides the TRCM with an opportunity todraw upon established Treaty expertise, networks andother resources.

During the 2006-2007 fiscal year, the TreatyCommissioner engaged in a number of consulta-tive processes to guide the development of theTRCM research agenda and strategy, namely:

1) Common issues identified by the TRCM parties;2) First Nations community consultations3) AMC General Chiefs’ Assemblies4) AMC-TRCM Elder’s Advisory Council;5) Treaty Researchers’ Think Tank.

TREATY RESEARCH: METHODOLOGICAL ISSUES

A range of specific research projects weredeveloped within each of these priority areas.Some are intended to augment, collaborateand/or integrate research already being carriedout, others are original. In total, 15 researchprojects have been articulated which, ifapproved and funded, will produce the follow-ing: 12 major research reports which will bepublished on-line, a Manitoba First Nationmaps series, and five book length manuscriptsthat will be published in hardcopy, DVDs andon-line.

A number of University Presses have alreadyexpressed interest in publishing the outcomesof the TRCM research projects. In all instancesthe goal is to bring oral history and convention-al research findings together to help reach com-mon understanding of the outstanding Treaty

PROPOSED TREATY RESEARCH STRATEGY, 2007-2008

The Treaty research priority areas were broad-ly organized in order to encompass a widerange of specific research topics, keeping inmind that some research areas may overlap.

Six Research Priority Areas:

1) Livelihood2) Crown-First Nation Treaty Relations3) Treaty provisions, Implementation and

Interpretations4) Manitoba First Nation Traditional

Knowledge and Practices5) Treaty Research Methods Issues issues.

400-175 Hargrave StreetWinnipeg, MB R3C 3R8

Tel: (204) 777-1871Fax: (204) 777-1874

Toll Free: 1-866-296-3228www.trcm.ca

“The Treaties endure as contemporarycovenants with contemporary

obligations, responsibilities, andrights. Honouring the treaties meansacknowledging the spirit and intent inwhich they were created and using this

knowledge in current relations.Fostering that is the work of the

Treaty Relations Commission.”

Treaty Commissioner Dennis White Bird

Treaty RelationsCommission of Manitoba