Treaty Commissioner’s Office Marks 20 Years
Monday, November 02, 2009 at 12:13
A big birthday was celebrated in Saskatoon on Friday: the 20th anniversary of the Office of the Treaty Commissioner.
More than a hundred years ago, 33 First Nations didn’t receive the land that was promised to them in treaties.
That’s what led to the creation of the office in 1989.
Three years later, the Treaty Land Entitlement Agreement was signed by 24 bands.
It provided money for bands to buy land.
Speakers said the office and the TLE deal have led to a better future for First Nations
Howard McMaster played a key role, explaining the deal to First Nations in their own language.
He said the testimony from the elders made a dramatic difference.
“The oral testimony of the elders is really what made a difference here. It was not the book (based) historical research, it was the elders’ testimony that verified and actually increased the numbers — and I think to the benefit of all First Nations,” McMaster said.
The anniversary is being celebrated in several other ways.
For example, the office’s display at the Saskatoon Airport is being improved, and a commemorative medal is being minted.