Two Families

As Chief of the Montreal Lake Cree Nation, I endorse the writing of Harold Johnson. His use of the inclusive Kiciwamanawak in the discussion formally introduces him as the speaker for all of us to all of you... -- Chief Lionel Bird

Through an examination of treaty rights, Johnson makes a passionate plea for equality and harmony between First Nations, governments, and society in general.First Nations Elders interpreted treaties as instruments that gave Europeans the right to settle here, share resources, and build a relationship of equality with those who were here before. These elders did not intend the treaties to allow the subjugation and impoverishment of First Nations, or give settler governments the right to legislate every aspect of First Nations activities. In an easy to read narrative, Harold Johnson presents an eloquent view, on behalf of a people, of what treaties represent, including the justice system and reconciliation of laws, resources and taxation, assimilation, leadership and sovereignty, Constitutional rights, youth, and relations between next generations.