[Witness speaks in Dene]
We presented the history of what took place, but I'm going to speak on the grassroots level about how our people are today.
When this government came into power, there was hope that reconciliation and nation building were priorities, and our people had hope, but now that hope is fading away since these are always delayed by bureaucrats not willing to move forward. At our grassroots level, our people are waiting patiently. We are very kind people and very tolerant, despite how we have been treated, and history says it all.
Today I'm here. I am speaking from my heart for our people. We all have a common goal. We would like something better for our children. For over 100 years that's what we've been trying to do, and we're still struggling today.
The minister last August in Tadoule Lake was crying. She had tears, and I have a recording of that, and she said never again will the Government of Canada treat our people.... Guess what? Today we are still having the same struggle.
I hope you can help us. If we have to beg, so be it. Please, we are asking you to help us get what is rightfully ours, because we've been waiting for justice for a long time. Our people are dying. The people who started this negotiation have both passed on, and we buried one three days ago who was my partner and colleague. As you can see, it is heavy for us at times.
This is not the first time I have come to present and talk in front of people, but when I start going, I think about the people back home. I hope you can hear us. We have been waiting long enough, and it's time to move forward and get on with what's already agreed upon by Canada.
Masi cho.