In 10 years, Treaty #9 will be 100 years old. And now is the time to implement the promises of that treaty, says Rosanne Archibald, chair of the Mushkegowuk Council.
The Mushkegowuk Council is set to establish a research unit to get a treaty package together that will be used to get the government to move on promises it made in Treaty #9, which covers the entire Nishnawbe-Aski Territory.
“It’s important to start work now, when we are seeing our rights being eroded,” said Archibald. “Not to renegotiate the treaty—but to look at the spirit and intent of the treaty and how to implement them.” Within the communities, the treaty is seen as an important document made between two governments. In Chiefs’ meetings and assemblies, the treaty is often cited in discussions of issues affecting the Mushkegowuk people.
“I’ve been in the communities and heard Elders and people talk about treaty promises such as housing, education and health. They also talk about how as a people we are responsible to govern themselves under the treaty,” Archibald told The Nation.
“But what is happening today is that new agreements are being signed that make the treaty and our rights weaker.” One example is the plan to dismantle the Department of Indian Affairs and the possibility of a reduction in services promised under Treaty #9. Archibald also said people’s rights are being violated by new legislation affecting the area, such as the newly introduced Highway Traffic Act.
“The federal government is taking away our rights to govern ourselves and not having bearing on the treaty,” said Archibald. “I’ve heard from Elders that there were verbal and written promises that aren’t being met. We see a strong treaty position within the area.” The plan is to have a consultant and a research unit gathering all the information on the treaty that can be used in negotiating with the federal government.
