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Teionswatheton - Tyendinaga

Teionswatheton - Tyendinaga
2014

The Indian Act

My project examines the Indian Act of 1876. For over a century the Indian Act has governed the lives of aboriginal people living in Canada. Since I am of aboriginal ancestry, I thought it would be interesting to learn more about the act that still governs the everyday lives of aboriginal people in Canada.

What was the most interesting thing you learned about your topic?

The most interesting thing that I have learned about my topic is that I thought that The Indian Act, was an agreement between First Nations people's and the Canadian parliament. I found out that The Indian Act was actually created entirely by The Parliament of Canada.

What important lessons have you learned that you want to share with other Canadians?

I have learned how the population of indigenous people living in Canada have been governed for over a century.

How would you compare your life today to the lives of those studied in your project?

My life today, is very different than the lives of the aboriginals living in Canada in 1876. When The Indian Act was created, aboriginal people did not have the same rights as they do today. (Leaving the reserve, wearing traditional regalia, taking part in traditional festivals, etc.)

http://kids.canadashistory.ca/Kids/YoungCitizens/Profiles/2014/Teionswatheton-B