Political & Economic Organizations - Additional Reading

D. Treaty Rights

The 1969 White Paper downplayed the significance of Canada’s historical treaties.  First Nations leaders responded strongly.  They saw the historical treaties as the foundation of their relationship with Canada.  They were appalled that the federal government intended to legislate the treaties out of existence.

Today, the Assembly of First Nations maintains a Treaties and Land Unit to provide technical advice, research, and administrative support to First Nations who have problems concerning their treaty rights.  Supreme Court decisions have repeatedly recognized the continued importance of treaty rights.