This week, as we discuss protection of culture, preservation of culture, and the revitalization of culture, the Royal Proclomation of 1763 has a significant birthday. This treaty is referred to by many as the “Indigenous Bill of Rights”.

“Issued by King George III, [this bill] essentially defined the relationship between the Crown and the native peoples in the new territories in North America acquired by the British — land that would become Canada. The document became a guide to all treaty-making since, and its presence is felt in the legal underpinnings of Confederation in 1867 and in the Charter of Rights and Freedoms in 1982. Some refer to it as the Indian Magna Carta (MacKinnon, 2013).”

I believe that understanding our past will help us to move forward. Knowing how treaties have influenced policy and legislation for and against First Nations people is an integral part of developing a path for our future. I hope it is a path of respect including the freedom to express culture, language, and establishes clear ties to lands of indigenous peoples.

Mel Burgess.

MacKinnon, L. (2013). Royal Proclamation of 1763, Canada’s ‘Indian Magna Carta,’ turns 250. Retrieved October 14, 2013, from http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/royal-proclamation-of-1763-canada-s-indian-magna-carta-turns-250-1.1927667.