Treaty 6 150 Commemoration at Fort Pitt

Hosted by the Onion Lake Cree Nation, the Treaty 6 150th commemoration at Fort Pitt last week featured Elders, Knowledge Keepers, leaders, and teachings on Treaty histories, culture, health, current issues, and the responsibilities of Treaty people.

The OTC wants to highlight the role of women and Two Spirit people as leaders and knowledge keepers that was clearly supported at the event. A media event held Sept. 9, announced that Saddle Lake Cree Nation was standing up to establish a safe haven for gender-affirming medical care.

“We remind you of your duty to protect all people and not perpetuate colonial violence,” said Saddle Lake Chief Dale Steinhauer. “No longer will our children and families have their rights taken away.”

The Fort Pitt commemoration and others are an opportunity not only to remember the past, but to strengthen relationships in the present and encourage all Treaty people to understand their role in carrying the Treaty relationship forward.

The original Treaty 6 manuscript also was on site at Onion Lake, the first time the document had been at this location in 150 years.