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As King Charles III embarks on his two-day visit to Canada, Indigenous leaders are voicing their hopes for a meaningful engagement with the Crown. The Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs, represented by Grand Chief Kyra Wilson, and the Southern Chiefs Organization, led by Grand Chief Jerry Daniels, gathered on Parliament Hill to advocate for recognition of their rights and the importance of treaty relationships.
Calls for respect and recognition
During a press conference, Grand Chief Daniels emphasized the need for the Crown to honor the treaties that have been established. “We are your allies,” he stated, highlighting the historical context of the relationship between Indigenous peoples and the monarchy.
The absence of a meeting with Indigenous leaders during this royal visit has raised concerns about respect and acknowledgment of their rights.
Wilson expressed her disappointment, stating that the exclusion of First Nations leaders sends a message of disrespect. “We always hear of the term ‘nation to nation,’ but we’re actually not seeing that happen,” she remarked.
The leaders are calling for a shift in how the Crown engages with Indigenous communities, advocating for a more inclusive approach that recognizes their sovereignty and rights.
A pivotal moment for reconciliation
King Charles III’s visit marks a significant occasion, as he will be the first Canadian monarch to deliver the throne speech in nearly fifty years.
His itinerary includes meetings with Prime Minister Mark Carney and Governor General Mary Simon, but the absence of Indigenous leaders from these discussions raises questions about the commitment to reconciliation.
Grand Chief Wilson hopes that the King will reconsider his schedule before the visit concludes.
“We see a lot of policy and funding agreements, but they don’t truly address the intent of treaty implementation,” she noted. This visit presents an opportunity for the Crown to acknowledge past wrongdoings and set the stage for a renewed relationship with Indigenous peoples.
Looking towards the future
Grand Chief Daniels, who will attend the throne speech, sees this as a chance to advocate for the 32 nations represented by the Southern Chiefs Organization. He expressed his desire to witness a transformation in the relationship between Indigenous peoples and the Crown, emphasizing the need for a fundamental reset. “This cannot occur by small, incremental changes,” he stated, calling for a collective effort to forge a new path forward.
The leaders are hopeful that this royal visit will serve as a catalyst for meaningful dialogue and action towards reconciliation. As they continue to advocate for their rights and recognition, the message is clear: the relationship with the Crown must evolve to reflect the true spirit of partnership and respect.
