Utoo Radio and Other News Sources - April 15, 2024 - A Saskatchewan-based lawyer, Deanne Kasokeo, believes that "cows and plows" settlements do not accurately reflect the spirit and intent of treaties from an Indigenous perspective.

Under treaties 4,5,6 and 10, the Crown promised agricultural benefits to First Nations that signed, but these promises have not been fulfilled. Many First Nations are negotiating settlements for compensation, and Kasokeo emphasizes the importance of Indigenous values and understanding of treaties in negotiations with the Canadian government.

The release clause in the agreement, which states that Canada will release Canada now and forever from that date for future generations, is concerning to Kaseoko. Kaseoko urges First Nations people to assert their rights in these negotiations.

Manitoba's Treaty Commissioner Loretta Ross acknowledges that First Nations are cautious when it comes to the Crown addressing outstanding treaty obligations, but acknowledges that the application appraises the treaty in the way it itemizes livelihood.

Hans McCarthy, a member of Frog Lake Cree Nation in Alberta, believes that the Cree world view needs to be reflected in negotiations, as the treaty obligation was not meant to be a one-time payment. He urges for ongoing conversations and understanding of the Cree perspective in negotiations.