November 3 to 9: Treaties Recognition Week

November 5, 2024

The Treaty-making process in Canada was formally established by the Royal Proclamation of 1763, and today the Canadian Government recognizes 70 historic treaties signed between 1701 and 1923. These Treaties formed the foundation for the relationship between the Crown and Indigenous people across Turtle Island, however, there has been and continues to be differing interpretations of the meaning behind them. From the Crown’s perspective, Treaties were considered land sales or surrenders, and from the perspective of First Nations they were agreements to preserve land and culture through peace and sharing. Prior to Confederation, Treaties were negotiated to expand land entitlement and facilitate European settlement. In these negotiations, Indigenous peoples were promised reserve lands, fishing and hunting rights, and other benefits. However, as of today many of these promises remain unfulfilled and have led to ongoing disputes and land claims. Although some areas of the country are making progress, other areas lag behind in settling these issues. In recent Treaty negotiations there is more importance being placed on Indigenous self-determination, land management, and economic development. Reconciliation efforts, such as the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s 94 Calls to Action, emphasize the need for Treaty education and widespread awareness. As well as the implantation of strategic planning to right the wrongs of historical injustices and promote ongoing positive relations between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Canadians.

Resource links:

www.treatyroad.ca to link to an APTN docuseries on Numbered Treaties 1-6.

www.canadashistory.ca to link to information on Numbered Treaties 1-11.