Governor General, Sask. Premier address crowd at Treaty 6 commemoration

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“Well history, unfortunately, tells a very different story. Your ancestors were too often denied the justice, dignity and respect to which they were entitled. Colonization gave rise to some of the darkest chapters in Canadian history, including the failure to uphold Treaty commitments and the profound harm caused by the residential school system,” Arbour remarked. 

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“Like many Canadians, I grew up largely unaware of this reality. Learning about it has been painful and deeply unsettling, challenging much of what I’ve been led to believe about Canadian history.” 

Governor General of Canada Louise Arbour is the highest representative of the Crown in Canada. (Image Credit: Derek Cornet/larongeNOW Staff)

Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe assisted in unveiling the Treaty 6 150th Commemorative Monument. (Image Credit: Derek Cornet/larongeNOW Staff)

Assembly of First Nations Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak was one of many dignitaries to bring greetings. (Image Credit: Derek Cornet/larongeNOW Staff)

The main stage of the Treaty 6 150-year commemorative event. (Image Credit: Derek Cornet/larongeNOW Staff)

Arbour spoke about her commitment to advancing reconciliation, adding the country is also now going through uncertain and challenging times. She added now more than ever the collective well-being of the country depends on the trust Canadians place on one another.  

“In this historic gathering place, people came together to lay the foundation for ongoing cooperation and partnership. Despite the shortcomings of the past, we have an opportunity to rebuild that trust and ensure a future that is both harmonious and prosperous for our children and for our grandchildren.” 

Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe was also in attendance to unveil the Treaty 6 150th Commemorative Monument. The monument, which has yet to be built near Fort Carlton, will include a steel teepee with 14 plaques recognizing the chiefs who signed Treaty 6.  

“As this event approached, there was a request to the Government of Saskatchewan, and they asked us to support a permanent monument at the place where Treaty 6 was first signed. It is important we see symbols of Treaty here in Saskatchewan and I would say across the nation of Canada. It is a reminder that we all have a role to play in this Treaty journey,” Moe stated.  

“We carry the responsibility to honour and understand the Treaty commitments that connect us. The Treaty is not just a historical document from our past, but it is an agreement that joins us today and joins us each and every day in whatever we do, whether it be in our personal life or our careers in our daily journeys.” 

Assembly of First Nations Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak told attendees the day is not simply about remembering history, it is about remembering Treaty 6 as a living, enduring document. She said it guides the relationship between First Nations and Canada, and the intent to uphold inherit sovereignty, to protect First Nations people, and to govern in their traditional territories. 

“Treaty First Nations are always committed to peaceful coexistence with the Crown. This requires mutual respect, recognition, and partnership in sharing, so that no one is left behind. There is no expiration date on our Treaties, but there is unfinished business,” Nepinak said.  

derek.cornet@pattisonmedia.com