WIREDGOV

A delegation from the Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations (FSIN) in Canada visited The National Archives recently to view documents connected to the Royal Proclamation of 1763.

The Royal Proclamation by King George III on 7 October 1763, 250 years ago, established government for Quebec, East Florida, West Florida and Grenada and is viewed as an important moment in the relationship between First Nations and the Crown.

Led by Chief Perry Bellegarde, Chief of the FSIN, a delegation of 25 chiefs, veterans, elders and leaders representing indigenous people from Canada met records specialists and viewed a selection of documents and maps connected to the 1763 Royal Proclamation.

Chief Perry Bellegarde said: 'As indigenous peoples, it is very important for us to be here because the Royal Proclamation of 1763 represents the first time that the Crown recognised indigenous peoples' title to lands and territories. The Royal Proclamation is fundamental to the legal framework for First Nations in Canada and is referenced in Canada's constitution.'

The FSIN represents 74 First Nations in Saskatchewan, Canada, and organised the four-day visit to mark the 250th anniversary of the Royal Proclamation. As well as visiting The National Archives, the group conducted a ceremony at the Canada Memorial in Green Park.