Treaty litigation successful for 21 Lake Huron First Nations

In the past three days, more than 1,200 people took part in ceremonies and events honouring the 174th anniversary of the signing of the Robinson Huron Treaty in 1850. (Alana Everson/CTV News)

In the past three days, more than 1,200 people took part in ceremonies and events honouring the 174th anniversary of the signing of the Robinson Huron Treaty in 1850.

A total of 21 Lake Huron First Nation communities are part of the treaty territory and have been celebrating a $10 billion settlement with the provincial and federal governments.

"This is a miraculous case," said Chief Patsy Corbiere, of the Aundeck Omni Kaning First Nation and a trustee for the Robinson Huron Treaty Litigation Fund.

"This is probably the largest in Canada that we have won and … it’s going to (be) a milestone for other claims that are in the court system. So, we are very proud of who we had on the team."

Members of the Robinson Huron Treaty Litigation Committee said the 21 First Nations received the settlement because of the Crown’s failure to increase annuities since 1875, as promised in the treaty.

"It’s up to each community to decide how they are distributing it," said Grand Chief Linda Debassige, of the Anishaabek Nation.

"Some communities have already made their distributions; others are still going through different processes but the distribution at the community level is really up to the community and their leadership."

The litigation management committee said the next step is negotiations to increase annuities from $4 per person moving forward for sharing land and resources.

"We see all the indications of financial reports that are provided to shareholders that operate in the treaty territory," said Duke Peltier, Robinson Huron Treaty Litigation Fund trustee.

"We believe that $4 is not fair and in fact that we require serious conversations to address what that amount is going to be in the future."

During a three-day event at the Anderson Farm in Lively, there was a teaching lodge and several workshops providing learning opportunities about the treaty.

Several elders and individuals were honoured for their contributions to their communities and support for the treaty litigation fund in the past -- and negotiations moving forward.