Tag Archives: Manavpreet Singh

Indigenous Nations

First Nations members believe TLE settlements open path for future generations

By Manavpreet Singh, Energycity.ca, Local Journalism Initiative

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — Some local First Nation members are calling the Treaty Land Entitlement settlements a positive step for future generations.

Five Treaty 8 First Nations recently settled TLE claims with provincial and federal governments. According to a provincial release, the settlements resolved decades-old claims by the First Nations, stating they did not receive all the lands owed them in Treaty 8 claims. These First Nations first signed the Treaty of Land Entitlements in 1899.

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Energy, Indigenous Nations

Local First Nations’ loss of Montney Reserve ignites 20-year legal battle for justice

By Manavpreet SIngh, Energycity.ca, Local Journalism Initiative

The Montney Reserve, famous for oil and gas, represents a conflict that resulted in a lengthy legal battle for land and Treaty rights following a complicated history between Canada and Indigenous people.   

In 1945, the Department of Indian Affairs forced the Fort St. John Beaver Band from the Montney Reserve, and the land was given to returning veterans from the Second World War, according to the Doig River website.

Doig River First Nation members said First Nation leaders during the 1940s couldn’t read or write English — an essential factor in the loss of the Montney Reserve land. 

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Indigenous Nations

Cultural significance of First Nation’s traditional crafts

By Manavpreet Singh, Energetic City, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

FORT ST.JOHN, B.C. – Local First Nations members believe traditional art and crafts signify the strength of Indigenous cultural identity.

According to Sandra Apsassin, the Elders coordinator for Blueberry River First Nation, sewing and beaded designs are art forms that define and shape her personality.

Apsassin believes traditional crafts have an influential role in preserving Indigenous communities’ cultural history. 

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