Treaty Relations
The Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs (AMC) is a steadfast supporter of the Treaty Relations Commission of Manitoba, working diligently to “strengthen, rebuild, and enhance the treaty relationship.” Through a five-year agreement funded by Crown-Indigenous Relations (CIR) — which has since concluded — AMC has offered vital support in numerous capacities. This includes political, Elder, technical, and advisory assistance to a range of leadership roles such as the Grand Chief, Chiefs Task Force, Manitoba Leadership, Treaty Commissioner, and the staff of TRCM.
Moreover, AMC ensured that there was proper representation in TRCM’s Governance Committees, with roles filled by the Grand Chief/designate, Chiefs Task Force, Council of Elders, and the Treaty Relations Coordinator. This collaboration between AMC and CIR is central to the success of many treaty relations initiatives and activities.
Gail Flett, Treaty Relations Coordinator
Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs
The Treaty Relations Coordinator has been instrumental in ensuring the significant participation of First Nations Elders in both AMC committees and crucial TRCM endeavours. The AMC Council of Elders consistently engaged in many meetings and events, offering indispensable guidance and feedback. Their profound involvement was particularly evident during the 34th Annual General Assembly, marked by spiritual ceremonies and the Rising Up Ceremony for the newly elected Grand Chief Cathy Merrick. Moreover, AMC has nurtured robust ties with other circles of Elders and Knowledge Keepers, paving the way for a profound exchange of wisdom and insights.
We Are All Treaty People
The AMC Chiefs-In-Assembly agreed in 2001 to create the Treaty Relations Commission of Manitoba in partnership with Canada. The Treaty Office opened in 2005. The current Treaty Commissioner is Loretta Ross.
The TRCM is a neutral body with a mandate to strengthen, rebuild and enhance the Treaty Relationship and mutual respect between First Nations and Manitobans as envisaged by the Treaty Parties. The TRCM enhances and maintains positive intergovernmental relations and cooperation; conducts independent research that advances discussions on Treaty-related issues; and facilitates public understanding of the importance and role of Treaty making in building a more robust and healthier Nation.
As long as the sun shines, the grass grows, and the water flows…
AMC and TRCM have agreed to establish an Elders Council as part of the partnership. The AMC Council of Elders is guided by their terms of reference and traditional code of ethics and provides guidance to AMC and TRCM. The AMC Chiefs Task Force provides guidance to the AMC Grand Chief and leadership, including the Treaty Commissioner, in accordance with a Memorandum of Agreement signed in 2003.
AMC has one staff person to assist with coordination activities specific to the AMC-Canada partnership on the TRCM. Gail Flett is the current Treaty Relations Coordinator.
For further information on the past work of the Treaty Relations Commission of Manitoba and the current day-to-day operations and activities, please visit the TRCM website at trcm.ca.
The TRCM concludes its third renewal term since its inception in June 2005 under the existing MOA and continues with a public education, research and facilitation mandate. AMC maintains contact with the Federation of Indigenous Sovereign Nations through their Treaty Commission, the Office of the Treaty Commissioner (OTC), Saskatchewan.
The TRCM office has a five-year term that ends March 31, 2023, and will continue for another five-year term for April 1, 2023 to March 31, 2028; the five-year term for Loretta Ross as the Manitoba Treaty Commissioner expires May 2023.
The renewal of the TRCM office is expected to be renewed and continue after March 31, 2023. The AMC mandate by resolution July.17.04 Renewal of TRCM for a 10-year term expiring in March 2029.
