Race, Ethnicity, Indigenous Peoples and Politics

L12 - Roundtable: Rights, Recognition, and Reconciliation in Treaty 8 Territory

Date: May 31 | Time: 02:00pm to 03:30pm | Location: Classroom - CL 418 Room ID:15761

Chair/Président/Présidente : Clinton Westman (University of Saskatchewan)

Rights Recognition and Reconciliation in Treaty 8 Territory: Negotiating Energy Development and Land Use in Northern Communities:

David Natcher (University of Saskatchewan)
Abigael Rice (University of Saskatchewan)
Katie Wheatly (University of Saskatchewan)
Tara Joly (University of Saskatchewan)

Abstract: Drawing from immersive ethnographic fieldwork in Indigenous communities across northern British Columbia and Alberta, this panel explores the diverse means by which Indigenous Peoples are negotiating traditional land use and energy development in Treaty 8 and Métis territory. Five environmental anthropologists reflect upon their collaborative, community-based research with land use and consultation offices, exploring the strides and strategies local communities are making in the name of protecting and advancing Indigenous rights. A major focus will be upon the various roadblocks and breakthroughs faced by communities in protecting traditional land use across and between various jurisdictions. This assessment is timely, in light of the changing political and social spaces in which development is governed in Canada. Beyond delving into knowledge and place-based teachings from the field shared along the way, this panel will also address the potential space and role of social science research in supporting the national journey to reconciliation.