Thousands of First Nations people have converged at The Gathering Place in West Regina for the annual treaty day celebrations.
In total, more than 5,000 people are expected to attend the two-day event, which is a tradition that goes back to 1874 when Status Indians were given their first five dollar payment as part of their treaty entitlements.
Back then, five dollars was a lot. The payment is still five dollars today, which would barely buy you a cup of coffee.
Despite that, hundreds of people lined up in a hot, stuffy gym to get their payment, which was dutifully handed to them by a Mountie dressed in red serge.
Erica Beaudin, the manager for Regina Status Indian Services, has been organizing the event for years. She said it is part tradition, and part celebration.
“It’s very symbolic and important to us as numbered treaty people to receive the five dollars per year,” she said. “What it does is it honours and confirms our treaty relationship with the Crown.”
People from First Nations all over Southern Saskatchewan are there, as well as representatives from the Treaty Commissioner’s Office. Jennifer Heimbecker works for the office, and she is also a member of the Muskoday First Nation. She was impressed with the turnout.
“Wow, yes, this is the biggest I have seen in Regina for the number of years that I have been coming,” she said.
Tuesday’s celebration began with a free breakfast, unfortunately they ran out of food because of a larger than expected crowd.
There are also round dances, barbecues, and lots of activities for children. It is all free and everyone, both Indigenous and non-Indigenous people are welcome. The Regina Treaty Days end with a big fireworks display Wednesday night.
First Nations all over the province started up Treaty Days celebrations up to a month ago in some areas, and more are planned this summer.