Government of Canada and Whitecap Dakota Celebrate Historic Signing

Ref. #2-3679

Signing the MOU. In the photo from the back left: Senator Melvin Littlecrow of the Whitecap Dakota First Nation, Don Atchison, Mayor of Saskatoon, Councillor Gary Eagle, Councillor Frank Royal. Front: Chief Darcy Bear and Minister John Duncan.

See more related photos in our Photo Gallery.

SASKATOON, SASKATCHEWAN (July 7, 2012) – The Honourable John Duncan, Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development, and Chief Darcy Bear of Whitecap Dakota First Nation  , announced today that the Government of Canada and the First Nation have concluded a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on reconciliation. Minister Duncan and Chief Bear joined community members and local dignitaries at a special ceremony to celebrate the signing of the MOU.

"Today, our Government and Whitecap Dakota have taken an important step to renew and strengthen our relationship," said Minister Duncan. 

"I welcome the Government's efforts to work with our community to find a way towards Dakota reconciliation," commented Chief Bear. "History shows that the Dakota have been steadfast allies to the Crown for over 250 years, including our contributions in the War of 1812's fight for Canada. We look forward to mutually finding solutions that honour the spirit of our alliances."

This MOU will set the stage for continuing to work together towards a mutually acceptable path to reconciliation. These exploratory talks are expected to begin in the coming weeks.

The Government of Canada has also offered to enter into similar MOUs and pursue a similar dialogue with the other Dakota-Lakota First Nations in Manitoba and Saskatchewan. The Government welcomes the opportunity to move forward with willing partners in a spirit of collaboration.

For more information, please contact:

Whitecap Dakota First Nation
Chelsey Dempsey
306-477-0908

You can receive all our news and media updates automatically. Visit our Media Room RSS Feeds for more information or to sign up.