Photo courtesy of Anishinabek Nation
Alex Shares his Wampum Belt and Dakota Talks about Treaties will attempt to explain the agreements between the government and Indigenous people to young students.
The books were launched on Monday by the Anishinabek Nation in Ontario at a school on the Whitefish River First Nation.
The pair of publications are meant to be complementary to the “We are all Treaty People” kit.
“(The books) will help students at a younger age learn about the treaty relationship,” said Anishinabek Nation Grand Council Chief, Patrick Wedaseh Madahbee. “Teachers will be getting out the message that treaties are the legally binding, and sacred agreements that set out the rights, responsibilities, and relationships of First Nations and federal and provincial governments.”
The author of the books, Kelly Crawford, is a member of the M’Chigeeng First Nation, as well as an educator.
“(The books are) really about getting more awareness out there, opening up the discussion about treaties and the relationships that are often strained by — well everyone involved,” said Crawford.
The stories will be available in French and English for schools or individuals. While the initiative is based in Ontario, anyone can purchase copies of the story by contacting the Anishinabek Nation office.