The Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations (FSIN) is pleased with the Specific Claims Tribunal’s judgment today, which ruled in favor of the Beardy’s & Okemasis First Nation for Treaty annuity payments withheld from its members after the 1885 Northwest Rebellion. 

Vice Chief Bobby Cameron stated, “After 130 years, First Nations who wrongfully had their annuities withheld for alleged participation in the rebellion will finally get justice. This is remarkable news for our Treaty First Nations, but there is still considerable work to be done to right the many injustices our people have suffered in other areas like natural resource development and the Natural Resources Transfer Agreement which was unilaterally imposed.  We are committed to undertaking this work.”

Canada withheld Treaty payments to every man, woman, and child from fourteen First Nations in Saskatchewan, including the Beardy’s & Okemasis First Nation, between the years 1885 and 1888. The government claimed these First Nations participated in the Northwest Rebellion even though only a few individuals were ever charged.  Beardy’s and Okemasis took the lead on behalf of all fourteen First Nations in taking the claim to the Specific Claims Tribunal.  Today the Tribunal ruled that Canada breached its lawful obligation in withholding those annuities and therefore owes compensation.

The other First Nations affected by this decision include:  Chakastaypasin, Little Pine, Lucky Man, Moosomin, Mosquito/Grizzly Bear’s Head/Lean Man, Muskeg Lake, One Arrow, Onion Lake, Poundmaker, Red Pheasant, Sweetgrass, Thunderchild, Young Chipewayan all located in Saskatchewan.

FSIN Interim Chief Kimberly Jonathan, who holds the national portfolio for Specific Claims, said, “This ruling shows the importance of the Specific Claims Tribunal in bringing justice to First Nations in Saskatchewan, and how important it is that the government ensure that there are sufficient judges and resources for the Tribunal to continue to operate.”

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