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Indian Act

The lack of consideration of Aboriginal rights by the governments of the time was made even worse when Prime Minister John A. Macdonald’s government implemented the Indian Act in 1880,

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In the Woods
1950-1960s
Pikwàkanagàn, ON

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which made it illegal for us to speak our language,

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Madelene, linda, Dorothy, Ellenor and Peter drumming and singing
1964
Teepee Village, Golden Lake, ON

Credits:
Selena Roesler

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use our drums,

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Skip Ross at Mini Powwow 2011
19 June 2011
Pikwàkanagàn, ON

Credits:
Omàmiwininì Pimàdjwowin

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sing our songs,

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Smudge Ceremony: Sage, sweetgrass, abalone shell and turkey feather
1 May 2011
Omàmiwininì Pimàdjwowin, Pikwàkanagàn, ON

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practice our ceremonies,

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Matt Bernard in Traditional Clothing
Pikwakanagan, ON

Credits:
Helen Bernard

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wear our traditional clothing,

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Paul Benoit
1950s
Pikwàkanagàn, ON

Credits:
Selena Roesler

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or challenge any policy legally. This remained the law for seventy-one years, until these provisions were removed in 1951.