Canada’s first First Nations provincial premier elected in Manitoba
GuardianJUL 2023
Canada's Top Court Rules Crown Breached First Nations Treaty
Above: A First Nations representative carries the Union Jack during Canada Day celebrations in Calgary, Alberta. Image copyright: Wikimedia Commons
The Spin
Establishment-critical narrative
By violating revenue-sharing agreements, the Crown left thousands of Northern Ontario First Nations struggling in poverty while it enriched itself by exploiting their abundant natural resources. Friday's landmark ruling sets out the Crown's obligations to negotiate an increase in resource revenues retrospectively and into the future. It also ensures First Nations tribes have a fair share of the wealth generated by minerals, lumber, and waters on their erstwhile territories.
Pro-establishment narrative
Over the years, the Crown has spent billions of dollars to settle the First Nations tribe, open it up to industry, and address the serious issue of child welfare and the protection of the next generation. Though it may have reneged on its promises, it continued to invest in Indigenous self-determination and economic reconciliation. The Crown will also honor the top court's ruling, come to the table with clean hands, and try to reach an amicable agreement.