article

The dynamics of a Dene struggle for self-determination

Anthropologica • 34 (1) • Published In 1992 • Pages: 21-49

By: Smith, David Merrill.

Abstract

In this paper, Smith recounts the drama surrounding attempts by the Dene to control local government. Tensions arise not only between the Dene and Eurocanadians, but also among the Dene themselves, whose values eschewed open hostility and conflict. A returning university student began to organize a successful campaign to elect a Native majority on the Settlement Council. The new Council's subsequent attempts to initiate or carry out existing programs however were met with resistance by Eurocanadians who withdrew their assistance and cooperation. Eurocanadians scrutinized their every act for evidence of incompetence and found cause in a 'disaster' over the flooding of a hockey rink. However, the media and government supported the Native initiative as part of a general policy of Native self-rule in Canada's North.

HRAF PubDate

2000

Region

North America

Sub Region

Arctic and Subarctic

Document Type

article

Evaluation

Creator Type

Ethnologist

Document Rating

5: Excellent Primary Data

Analyst

Ian Skoggard ;1999

Field Date

1968-1974

Coverage Date

1968-1972

Coverage Place

Great Slave Lake region, Northwest Territories, Canada

Notes

David M. Smith

Includes bibliographical references (p. 47-49)

LCSH

Chipewyan Indians