Robinson-Huron Treaty anniversary commemorated

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On Sept. 9, 1850, the Anishinabek from Georgian Bay and the north shore of Lake Huron came together near Sault Ste. Marie, Ont.

They gathered to negotiate and sign a treaty with William

Benjamin Robinson, a provincial politician appointed to settle outstanding grievances with the Indians and acquire land title for the Crown.

This treaty has become known as the Robinson-Huron Treaty of 1850. One hundred and forty five years to the day after the signing of the treaty, approximately 100 Anishinabe from throughout the treaty area came together to demonstrate that the treaty is still relevant and important.

Elders, youth, chiefs, educators and media gathered in Garden River First Nation to talk about the treaty and what it means to them.

The day's events included remarks by Elders on the history of the treaty and their First Nations. They focused on the true spirit and intent of the treaty, the history behind it as well as the government's failure to live up to its treaty obligations.

Jim Morrison, a noted legal and historical researcher, also made a presentation on the treaty and how different the First Nation's perception of the treaty was from Robinson's.

He saw the treaty as an opportunity to peacefully obtain title to lands and waters in northern Ontario. The contemporary belief at the time was the Indians would eventually be assimilated into non-Native society.

The Anishinabek saw the treaty as an agreement to share resources while guaranteeing rights to resources for the use of future generations. In no way were they giving up any of their rights of access to resources.

The highlight of the day was the signing of a friendship protocol among the 21 Robinson-Huron First Nations. This document is a clear statement of the commitment among the bands to work together on the full implementation of the treaty and an affirmation of the Anishinabek interests in the resources within the treaty area.

There was also a feast of smoked rainbow trout, moose and other donated food from across the territory. The day finished with a ceremony honoring Elders Sophie McGregor from Serpent River and Violet McGregor from Whitefish River. Past grand chiefs of the Robinson-Huron region, Patrick Madahbee from the Ojibways of Sucker Creek, Phil Goulais from Nipissing, Leona Nahwegahbow from Whitefish River, Shirley Ashawasegai from Henvey Inlet and current Grand Chief Joyce Tabobondung were also honored with traditional shields.