TREATY 11 – 100 YEARS at the PWNHC

July 7, 2021

TREATY 11 – 100 YEARS at the PWNHC

YELLOWKNIFE (July 7, 2021) - A new Tłı̨chǫ community exhibit ‘Treaty 11 – 100 years’ is now on display at the Prince of Wales Northern Heritage Centre (PWNHC). The exhibit commemorates the 100th anniversary of Chief Mǫwhì signing the treaty in Behchokǫ̀, NT, on August 22, 1921.

The exhibit is open to the public and can be viewed during regular operating hours at the PWNHC. An official opening will take place on July 16, 2021 at the PWNHC. The event is open to the public and will include a Feeding of the Fire Ceremony and remarks, followed by tea and bannock.

A highlight of the exhibit is the treaty medal from the Tłı̨chǫ region, on loan from the Tłı̨chǫ Government. Also on display is a hand-sewn replica of a chief’s treaty jacket made by Georgina Franki and pointed toe moccasins with quillwork made by Frances Richardson.

The exhibit is a community partnership between the Tłı̨chǫ Government, Tłı̨chǫ citizens, and the PWNHC, who worked closely together to create an exhibit that shares stories about the treaty from their point of view.

Quote(s)

“The Tłı̨chǫ are pleased to share the story of the signing of Treaty 11 and its connection to present day self-government. Chief Mǫwhì knew what was coming and 100 years later we are on the path that recognizes our nation and our land. The exhibit also highlights the memories we have of annual Treaty days when the Tłı̨chǫ people would travel by canoe, gather and celebrate together with traditional dances and feasts.”

- George Mackenzie, Tłı̨chǫ Grand Chief

“The new community exhibit at the Prince of Wales Northern Heritage Centre tells the century-long story of Treaty 11 from the perspective of the Tłı̨chǫ. Today, 100 years after the signing of Treaty 11, we continue to build a relationship with the Tłı̨chǫ based on mutual respect, recognition of Indigenous and treaty rights, self-government, and shared responsibilities.”

- R.J Simpson, Minister of Education, Culture and Employment

Quick facts

Treaty 11 was the foundation for the modern nation-to-nation treaty making process which led to the signing of the Tłı̨chǫ Agreement, and the exhibit tells the story of the 100-year relationship between Canada and the Tłı̨chǫ.
The new exhibit can be viewed at the PWNHC in Yellowknife, NT, Wednesday to Sunday, 1 to 5 p.m.
Funding for these activities was provided by Canadian Heritage and established partnerships with other organizations.