Talking points are designed to help you engage in conversations about the issues that matter—whether you’re at a gathering, community meeting or talking to neighbours. Try them out!

Remind people that Treaties are sacred, living, legally binding agreements that must be respected today.

• • Treaties are not “history.”
    Treaties are the original agreements that allow for all of us to share this land.
  • Treaty rights don’t expire – ever. Governments and their citizens have a responsibility to uphold the promises made regarding our way of life and livelihood. That promise includes the protections of water so that we can continue to be Cree, Blackfoot, Saulteaux, Chipewyan and Dene Peoples.
  • When we ALL stand up for Treaty rights, we are making sure our children and grandchildren can live with the respect and security promised by our ancestors. Our duty is the ensure

First Nations must have a leading role in managing and protecting our sacred waters on, in and under our lands. If you’re not First Nations, you can adapt these to speak about why you support First Nations-led environmental management as an ally.

• • Water is a sacred gift, not a commodity to be manipulated and sold. Our health, food and ceremonies depend on clean, flowing water.
  • We have a right and duty to look after the waters that run through our territories. We have cared for our waters since time immemorial and our knowledge will keep them healthy.
  • Every person deserves clean drinking water. We need the infrastructure and legal authority to ensure our waters are safe now, and for the next seven generations.

First Nations’ stewardship is the best way to protect the environment, here on Mother Earth, for everyone.

• • We are the land. Protecting our lands is not just about the environment—it’s about protecting who we are as Peoples.
  • First Nations are the best guardians of the land. When Indigenous Peoples manage the land, the ecosystem thrives. (Study)
  • We are not against progress, but it must not come before the health of the earth. Any project proposed or planned on Treaty land must have our Peoples’, our lands, and our relative’s wellbeing at the forefront.