The Aboriginals had a long association with the Canadian Crown which dates back to the first interactions between the Aboriginals and the European rulers. Since the Europeans started colonizing Canada, many treaties and interface were established between the Aborigines and the monarchy. The Canadian Aboriginal Law administers the agreements with Crown and the Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development oversees it.
In the 15th and 16th centuries, the English and French monarchs established contact with the Aboriginals to seek alliance in seizing territories from the other rulers. These interactions were usually peaceful and agreements and partnerships were made in the form of treaties. The first treaty with the natives was signed in the year 1676. The English used friendly ways to establish their dealings with Aboriginals and simultaneously expanded their colonies. After the American Revolution, during Queen Victoria’s royal tour of Canada, the Aboriginals asserted their loyalty towards the Queen and placed their concerns and problems in front of Her Majesty. The Aboriginals loyally maintained their association with Monarchy even after Canada’s independence.
In today’s time the relation between the Crown and the Aboriginals are guided by the King George III’s Royal Proclamation of 1763. This proclamation binds the Canadian Crown as well as the British Crown to the Aboriginals. Periodically, the connection between the Aboriginals and the Crown is expressed by pow-wows and other ceremonies. Titles were bestowed to the monarchs and gifts were also exchanged. Queen Victoria was given the title Great White Mother, while Queen Elizabeth II was given the title Mother of all people in 1959. Prince Charles was also honored with the title Son of Big Boss in 1976 and Leading Star in 1986.
In recent times there are some complaints by the Aboriginals that they get to play only ceremonial role during the royal tours. They have also complained that they are denied private audience with the Queen. The First Nation leaders have raised concerns about the dwindling relationship between them and the monarchy and have urged the Crown to take adequate measures to preserve the long standing relationship.
