A Declaration of Nishnawbe - Aski (The People and the Land)

Year Published:  1977  
Pages:  9pp  
Resource Type:  Article
Cx Number:  CX441

In order for them to regain freedom, it is mandatory that the Nishnawbe-Aski have the right to govern their spiritual, cultural, social, and economic affairs.

Abstract:  'A Declaration of Nishnawbe-Aski' is a declaration of Independence delivered by the Chiefs of Grand Council Treaty #9, to Premier William Davis and his cabinet on Wednesday, July 6, 1977.

This declaration speaks to the cultural genocide to which the Nishnawbe-Aski have been subjected and states that they are unwilling to experience this any longer. In order for them to regain freedom, it is mandatory that the Nishnawbe-Aski have the right to govern their spiritual, cultural, social, and economic affairs. Of ultimate concern is the use of the earth. The Nishnawbe-Aski are a people of the land, and it is therefore vital that the earth be treated with respect and concern. Exploitation of her resources must stop; this land is the heritage which they give to their children.

The Declaration mentions the necessity of re-negotiating Treaty #9 and lists the inalienable rights of the Nishnawbe-Aski.


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