A Solemn Undertaking_ Part 2 - The Five Treaties of Saskatchewan.mp4

Summary

This transcript explores the historical context and consequences of the treaties made between First Nations and the Canadian government. It highlights the promises made, such as land and education, and the subsequent challenges, including the implementation of the Indian Act and residential schools. The text reflects on the hardships faced by First Nations, the failure of treaty implementation, and the long-lasting impact on their communities. Despite these struggles, the relationship created through the treaties remains binding, and efforts are underway to renew and strengthen this relationship, offering a path to a reconciled future for both parties.

Takeaways

• 😀 The treaties between First Nations and the Canadian government were intended to secure land, education, and a stable livelihood for Indigenous peoples.
• 😀 Despite the treaty promises, the Canadian government introduced policies like the Indian Act, which sought to assimilate First Nations into European culture.
• 😀 Residential schools were established, and children were forced to abandon their culture, language, and beliefs, leading to cultural trauma.
• 😀 Many First Nations leaders were imprisoned for practicing their spirituality, further undermining their rights and freedoms.
• 😀 Between 1874 and 1906, five treaties were negotiated in Canada, legally binding First Nations and the government to formal agreements.
• 😀 The failure to implement the treaty agreements has caused long-lasting harm, including starvation, disease, and cultural disruption among First Nations communities.
• 😀 The Indian Act was amended in 1951, removing many restrictions on First Nations peoples, though challenges remained.
• 😀 In 1960, First Nations were granted the right to vote, marking a significant shift in their relationship with the Canadian government.
• 😀 In 1989, a Treaty Commissioner was appointed to explore solutions and work towards reconciliation, with a focus on finding common ground for the future.
• 😀 The government of Canada issued a statement of reconciliation in 1998, signaling a formal acknowledgment of past wrongs and the need for renewal in the treaty relationship.
• 😀 The treaty relationship is seen as binding and ongoing, with First Nations and the Canadian government now focusing on rebuilding trust and forging a new path forward for future generations.

Q & A

What was the main goal of the treaties negotiated between the First Nations and the Canadian government between 1874 and 1906?

The main goal of the treaties was to formalize a relationship between First Nations and the Canadian government, with provisions for land allocation, the establishment of schools, and the securing of livelihoods for the First Nations people.

How did the Indian Act of 1876 affect First Nations people?

The Indian Act of 1876 introduced provisions that sought to assimilate First Nations people into European culture, including the establishment of residential schools that forced children to abandon their own culture and beliefs.

What was the purpose of the residential schools set up by the Canadian government?

The residential schools aimed to teach First Nations children the European culture, language, and religion, often against the wishes of their families, and to discourage the practice of their own spiritual and cultural traditions.

What was the impact of the residential schools on First Nations children and families?

The residential schools caused significant harm to First Nations children, leading to cultural disconnection, loss of identity, and trauma. Many children were separated from their families, forced to learn European ways, and subjected to abuse and neglect.

How did the Canadian government fail in implementing the treaty relationship?

The government failed to fully honor the treaty provisions, particularly with regard to education and land rights, which resulted in long-term harm and hardship for First Nations communities.

What was the significance of the Indian Act amendment in 1951?

The amendment of the Indian Act in 1951 removed many of the restrictive provisions that had been imposed on First Nations people, marking a step towards addressing the systemic injustices they faced.

When were First Nations granted the right to vote in Canada?

First Nations were granted the right to vote in Canada in 1960, a significant milestone in their fight for equal rights and recognition.

What is the purpose of the Treaty Commissioner appointed in 1989?

The Treaty Commissioner, appointed in 1989, was tasked with facilitating a process to find a common path forward and address historical grievances between First Nations and the Canadian government.

What is the significance of the 1998 government statement of reconciliation?

The 1998 statement of reconciliation issued by the government of Canada acknowledged the harms caused by past policies and committed to restoring the treaty relationship, paving the way for a more positive and cooperative future.

What is the meaning of the phrase 'As long as the sun shines, the grass grows, and the rivers flow' in relation to the treaties?

The phrase symbolizes the enduring and binding nature of the treaty relationship between First Nations and the Canadian government, emphasizing that the commitments made are meant to last for future generations, as long as natural life continues.