Indigenous leaders from Manitoba react to King Charles III’s throne speech

Following a historic Speech from the Throne in Ottawa on Tuesday, Indigenous leaders are urging Canada and the Crown to follow through on their promises of reconciliation, while pointing to the notable absence of any mention of treaty responsibilities.

“When there is mention of Indigenous people and truth and reconciliation, it does make me hopeful,” said Kyra Wilson, Grand Chief of the AMC.

King Charles III’s first Canadian throne speech acknowledged Indigenous peoples and referenced reconciliation. Only a handful of Manitoba Chiefs were allowed inside the Senate chamber.

“Going forward, my hope is that Canada will respect our treaties, who we are as First Nation Peoples, and that we will work together,” said Wilson.

Indigenous leaders say there is a growing concern when it comes to development projects being fast-tracked without consultation. Adding that it threatens treaty lands and resources, and is urging Canada to stop pushing ahead without partnership.

“They’re compressing these projects from five years into two years, the junior crowns are lining up behind the big crown, and they will be soon knocking on your door if not already,” said Derek Nepinak, Chief of Minegoziibe Anishinaabe.

Jerry Daniels, the Grand Chief of SCO added, “Whatever we do going forward has to respect the nature of that land being alive.”

Both Chief Nepinak and Chief Daniels hope the king one day comes to First Nations communities to meet with them directly, to not stand above First Nations but beside them.