In the spirit of peaceful co-existence and mutual respect" Chief Perry Bellegarde

Chief Perry Bellegarde delivered a message of hope in his dynamic and informative presentation which opened the First Nations Symposium on January 16, 2012 at Assiniboia Composite High School. The symposium was organized under the direction of Vivian Gauvin, First Nations, Metis and Inuit Consultant with Prairie South Schools, teachers Al Wandler and Melanie Delorme, the support of Principal Brent Chadwick, and the students of the SHIFT class (combination of History 30 & ELA A30) at Assiniboia High.

Chief Bellegarde opened the keynote address with the question, "What should we call them?" explaining the distinctions between the many terms that are currently used to refer to Canada's Aboriginal peoples, and at the same time throughout the discussion, noting the depth of cultural diversity within the seventy-four First Nations in Saskatchewan which include the Woodland Cree, Swampy Cree, Plains Cree, Saulteaux, Dene, Dakota, Lakota and Nakota First Nations.

He also talked about the First Nations peoples' inherent right to self-determination now recognized in the Canadian constitution, and the structural relationships that exist within the current system of First Nations governance, moving from the Creator at the top, the people, the Reserve, the Chief and Council, the Tribal Council to the Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations (FSIN) and the Assembly of First Nations (AFN).

Chief Bellegarde talked passionately about the spirit and intent of Treaty, highlighting some of the many contributions of First Nations peoples and pointing out that the "use of land is because of treaty." He also stressed that we "can't pull out of treaty,"   it is a sacred covenant that was "entered into" in good faith not signed; an important part of our shared history.  Chief Bellegarde brought out his treaty medallion and his "Chief suit" that he wears to meetings, which he noted both signify the sanctity of the treaties and the relationship to the crown.

After the keynote address students and guests broke into smaller groups and rotated through the five sessions that were planned for the day.

Raven Thundersky talked about her experiences growing up in Manitoba and shared some stories from her lifelong involvement as a social justice advocate and activist for many contemporary Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal issues. Raven shared some of the traditional beliefs that guide her in everyday life: "In everything we do we have the next seven generations in mind."

Elder Larry Oakes, who currently works with the Health region, explained the significance of the gift of tobacco and traditional ceremonies: "By doing ceremony you are working towards the betterment of Mother Earth."   Elder Oakes also talked about the loss of language and culture through residential schools, the compensation from the government, and the truth and reconciliation hearings that are currently being held.

Alison Lewis, art teacher at Assiniboia High, introduced the students to Woodland Art, highlighting the work of Norval Morrisseau, and giving students some hands on experience trying some of his techniques.

Gerry Stonechild shared his experiences and stories about attending residential school, Treaty Days, and being an "Indian" dispelling many stereotypes and misconceptions through his stories. He also talked about the breakdown of First Nations culture and the healing process. Gerry provided an historical overview of some of the key legislation that has impacted Aboriginal peoples, beginning with The Indian Act of 1876, which was enacted to "civilize, manage and define who was an Indian" Pierre Trudeau's White Paper, The Red Paper which followed, and more recently the 1982 Canadian constitution.

Marquita Neufeld, who currently teaches at King George School in Moose Jaw, talked about growing up Metis, her family, and her education at SUNTEP. Breaking down current myths and stereotypes about Aboriginal people was a key focus of her presentation.

The day concluded with an awesome performance by the Fisher Family, traditional First Nations dancers from Regina. Tyler Thomas, who attends Peacock High in Moose Jaw, was one of the dancers.

The conference, designed to contribute to shared understanding between First Nations and non-First Nations peoples, was a resounding success. It was a positive experience which will contribute greatly to educating both students and teachers about the treaty relationship and the need to respect treaty obligations.

Kate Carlisle

First Nations Metis & Inuit Consultant

Prairie South School Division