Canada Settles $99M with Muscowpetung Saulteaux Nation for Broken Promises

UPDATE: The federal government of Canada has just announced a landmark settlement of $99 million with the Muscowpetung Saulteaux Nation, a First Nation located approximately 60 kilometers northeast of Regina. This urgent agreement addresses Canada’s long-standing failure to fulfill agricultural support promises made under Treaty 4, signed in 1874.

This settlement is a critical development for the Muscowpetung Saulteaux Nation, as it seeks to rectify devastating impacts caused by unmet commitments. The broken promises have resulted in severe poverty, food insecurity, and a lack of economic opportunities for the First Nation. The significance of this agreement cannot be overstated; it represents both a financial remedy and a step towards justice for a community that has suffered for over a century.

Historically, Treaty 4 guaranteed agricultural tools, seeds, and livestock to First Nations, enabling them to rebuild their lives after losing their traditional territories. However, the federal government consistently failed to deliver on these commitments, leading to catastrophic consequences, including widespread hunger and impoverished living conditions.

Alongside the Muscowpetung settlement, the government also confirmed settlements with two other Treaty 4 communities: Big River First Nation will receive $208 million and One Arrow First Nation will receive $124 million. These agreements highlight a growing recognition of the need to address historical injustices faced by Indigenous communities across Canada.

While the $99 million figure might seem substantial, it is merely a fraction of what is necessary to compensate for over 150 years of lost opportunities and suffering. The total for claims against the federal government has reached an astonishing $6.9 billion, with more than 50 specific claims under negotiation. Furthermore, approximately 100 additional cases remain pending, and many First Nations, such as my community of Peguis First Nation, are poised to pursue claims in the future.

As these settlements unfold, it is crucial to recognize that the focus should not solely be on financial compensation. The term “cows and plows” often used to describe these agreements can be misleading; it is not just about the money but about restoring opportunities for First Nations to thrive economically and culturally.

Some communities, including Muscowpetung, have opted for per-capita payments to their members. For instance, each member is set to receive a one-time payment of $40,000. However, this money can also stimulate local economies as beneficiaries may spend their settlements on goods and services.

In Manitoba, 24 claims are currently in various stages of assessment or negotiation, with a total of five claims already settled, each amounting to hundreds of millions of dollars. These settlements are not just financial transactions; they are vital steps towards healing and rebuilding communities that have faced systemic neglect.

The path forward is clear: as justice is served, the focus must shift toward seizing new opportunities to build robust economies, educational pathways, and cultural revival within First Nations. The settlements are a significant milestone, but they should spur further action to ensure that all First Nations receive the support they were promised.

The urgency of these developments cannot be overstated. As more First Nations pursue their rightful claims, the dialogue around reconciliation and justice continues to evolve. It’s time for Canada to fully honor its commitments and support Indigenous communities in their journey toward self-sufficiency and growth.

Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops and as additional settlements are announced in the coming weeks.