Indigenous leaders express hope for renewed relationship after Manitoba throne speech
CBC
Beginning with a Cree honour song and making numerous references to reconciliation, Heather Stefanson's first throne speech as Manitoba premier sought to establish a new relationship with Indigenous people.
Garrison Settee, grand chief of Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak, said he believes there's sincerity behind that effort.
"I think that she remains committed to ... not only listening to us, but allowing us to be part of some of the things that we are discussing," he said.
"She's asking for input, she's asking for feedback from us, and that's never happened before."
The opening song before Tuesday's speech from the throne, sung in the Manitoba Legislature by Opaskwayak Cree Nation Coun. Mike Bignell, marked the first time a Manitoba throne speech began with traditional singing and drumming.
Bignell sang the song, which he wrote in honour of his late great-uncle, for the first time in public. It wasn an emotional experience, he said in an interview with Faith Fundal, host of CBC Manitoba's afternoon radio show, Up to Speed.
"Today it felt like it was a big purpose to bring that song out and to show the people that … we're still here," he said.
WATCH | Drumming and singing for reconciliation before start of Manitoba throne speech:
The song signified that the government wants to move in a new direction, Settee said.
Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs Grand Chief Arlen Dumas, in consultation with the premier's office, came up with the idea of opening the proceedings with a First Nations song.
"I think that the fact that we opened up the proceedings today with some traditional singing is very significant," Dumas said, speaking to reporters after the speech.
"However, while I appreciate that the premier and the government is saying that they're willing to listen, I also want them to hear what we have to say."
In the speech, delivered in the legislature by Lt.-Gov. Janice Filmon, Stefanson said her government is committed to working with Indigenous people to advance shared goals and promote truth and reconciliation.
"We must rebuild this relationship on a foundation of meaningful dialogue and engagement with First Nations, Métis and Inuit leaders to co-develop action plans," said the speech, which lays out the government's priorities for the coming year.
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