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Self-Government Recognition of the right to self-government is noted in the Agreement known as Treaty #3. According to Chief Mawintoopinesse: "It is the wish of all that where are peace should reign, that nothing shall be there that will disturb peace, and will put every one that carries arms, - such as murderers and thieves - outside, so that nothing will be there to disturb our peace." Nothing in the Agreement known as Treaty #3 replaced Anishinabe governance with the regime later enforced by the Indian Act of Canada. According to Treaty #3, as published by Canada, Canada recognizes Chiefs and political councils: "It is further agreed between Her Majesty and the said Indians that each Chief is duly recognized as such shall receive an annual salary of twenty-five dollars per annum and each subordinate officer, not exceeding three for each band, shall receive fifteen dollars per annum; and each Chief shall receive once in every three years a suitable suit of clothing; and each Chief shall receive, in recognition of the closing of the treaty, a suitable flag and medal." Indian Act legislation has attempted to control traditional governments and foster assimilation of Anishinabe people to euro-canadian society. In an attempt to abolish traditional ranks, the positions of Messenger and Soldier were terminated in 1895 by the Government of Canada. Enforcement of the Indian Act legislation over time has attempted to suppress traditional political organization and the election of Chiefs and councils. Anishinabe religion and government were forbidden, and for many years it was illegal to raise money to defend rights. All of this was done in the mistaken assumption that such legislation would accelerate assimilation. Traditional leadership and government are crucial to the process of self-government, to coordinate activities important to member bands, and for formulation of long term strategies. it is within traditional models of government that Anishinabe leadership will continue to develop. |