It is important to remember the meaning of the terms Aboriginal Rights and Treaty Rights from Unit I. The term Aboriginal Rights confirms the fact that Aboriginal peoples were autonomous at the time of contact and that social and cultural structures continue to exist to meet the needs of the people. Aboriginal peoples did not surrender their rights to self-determination. The government's way of implementing the treaty process was to introduce the Indian Act. Once this piece of legislation was implemented, First Nations economic development was severely restricted.

These sites will help you do the following activities.

• The Indian Act
• The Royal Commission On Aboriginal Peoples -Restructuring the Relationship

ACTIVITIES

1. The Indian Act restricts economic development. Given the following areas of the act, explain how each section affected Treaty people:

• Sale or Barter of Produce
• Loans To Indians
• Operation of Farms
• Trading with Indians
  

2. Many First Nations leaders feel the economic restrictions of the act have led to lower levels of education, higher levels of poverty and many health problems. Why do you think Aboriginal leaders claim this statement is true?

3. The Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples states that economic development for Aboriginal people was severely restricted for six historical reasons. Explain these reasons.

4. The historical damage for economic development has already been done. Describe four of the problems that need to be overcome to improve economic development for Aboriginal people.

5. What two ways does The Royal Commission On Aboriginal Peoples (RACP) suggest economic control can be gained?

6. The RACP also points out that all business entrepreneurs experience some barriers when starting up. However Aboriginal entrepreneurs face other obstacles. Explain four of these obstacles.

7. Aboriginal peoples have had their most success through collectively owned businesses. Airlines, hotels, golf courses and many more ventures have been successes for a number of bands. The report recommends three ways that governments can help Aboriginal businesses. Explain these recommendations.

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