In honour of the treaties signed between First Nation peoples and the Crown, the Government of Canada is pleased to once again join First Nations in Manitoba in celebrating Urban Treaty Payments at the Forks National Historic site.
This year's event marks the 10th anniversary of the first Urban Treaty Payments at the Forks. The event's location – a traditional gathering space for Aboriginal people – is both an important meeting place for First Nations people in and around Winnipeg and provides an ideal historic backdrop for Canadians from all backgrounds to learn about historical treaties.
Between 1871 and 1908, treaties were signed in Manitoba between First Nations and the Crown. Together, these treaties cover the entire province and establish the foundation for an ongoing treaty relationship based on mutual rights and responsibilities. In Manitoba, First Nations from seven treaties (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 10) receive treaty payments.
Our government is committed to preserving a strong and lasting relationship with First Nation individuals. Today's ceremonies are a way for us to honour and celebrate that relationship and to move forward in a spirit of partnership.
Finally, I would like to acknowledge and thank the Treaty Relations Commission of Manitoba and Parks Canada for their ongoing and valued participation in this annual event.
