Georges Erasmus facts for kids

Georges Henry Erasmus is an important Canadian leader. He was born on August 8, 1948, in Behchoko, a community in the Northwest Territories. He is well-known for his work helping First Nations people in Canada. From 1985 to 1991, he was the National Chief of the Assembly of First Nations, a group that represents many First Nations across the country.

Early Life and Standing Up for Rights

Georges Erasmus grew up in a Dene community. He was one of 12 children in his family. He went to high school in Yellowknife. In 1967, he volunteered with a group called the Company of Young Canadians.

In 1974, he became the president of the Dene Nation. In this role, he worked hard to stop a big oil and gas pipeline project. This project was called the Mackenzie Valley Pipeline. He believed it would harm the land and the Dene people's way of life.

Leading First Nations Across Canada

Georges Erasmus became the National Chief of the Assembly of First Nations in 1985. This was a very important job. He spoke for many First Nations communities across Canada. He served two terms as chief.

During his time as National Chief, a major event happened. It was called the Oka Crisis. This was a difficult time when a land dispute led to protests. Georges Erasmus played a key role in trying to find peaceful solutions.

After his time as National Chief, he helped lead the Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples. This commission looked into the history and challenges faced by Indigenous peoples in Canada. It also suggested ways to improve their lives.

Working for a Better Future

Georges Erasmus has always been a strong voice for Indigenous rights. He believes that Indigenous peoples should have control over their own lands and lives. He thinks they should be able to govern themselves.

In 1976, he spoke about the Dene people's rights. He said that the Dene wanted to be a "recognized entity" within Canada. This means they wanted to be seen as a distinct nation with their own self-government. He explained that old agreements, called Treaties 8 and 11, were meant to recognize the Dene's right to govern themselves. He felt these agreements had been broken.

Erasmus has always pushed for new agreements and for the Canadian government to recognize Indigenous rights. He believes that Indigenous peoples should work together to make changes. He wants to see different nations living together peacefully.

He has often said that Canada should build a "common future" by having "nation to nation" conversations. This means the Canadian government should talk with Indigenous nations as equals. He believes that working through courts is not the best way to build good relationships. Instead, he thinks making new treaties based on "mutual trust" is the way forward. He sees this as building a bond like "brothers" who help each other.

Awards and Recognition

Georges Erasmus has received many awards for his important work.

• In 1987, he was made a member of the Order of Canada. This is one of Canada's highest honors.
• In 1999, he was promoted to an officer of the Order of Canada.
• He has also received honorary doctorates from seven Canadian universities. These include the University of Toronto, Queen's University, and the University of Manitoba.
• In 2009, he was given the Governor General's Northern Medal. This award recognizes his contributions to Canada's North.