Workshop on the legacy of the Marshall Decisions to be hosted at Mount Allison University
SACKVILLE, NB — The workshop Rough Waters: The Legacy of the Marshall Decisions aims to bring together Indigenous leaders, academics, policymakers, and students to critically reflect on the legacy of the landmark Supreme Court of Canada Marshall Decisions, which affirmed First Nations’ treaty right to fish, hunt, and gather in pursuit of a moderate livelihood.
Dr. Mario Levesque, Associate Professor and Head of the Department of Politics & International Relations at Mount Allison University, says, “The Marshall Decisions have had a significant impact on Indigenous rights in Canada. As we approach the 25th anniversary of these landmark rulings, it is important that we take the time to reflect on their legacy and examine options for moving forward.”The event will provide an opportunity for 60 experts, including Indigenous leaders and community members, academics, decision-makers, and key political officials to reflect on where we are, identify key issues, and explore paths forward. It will feature keynote presentations by The Hon. Graydon Nicholas, a Wolastoqey Elder, former Lt. Governor of New Brunswick, and Chancellor and Endowed Chair in Native Studies at St. Thomas University, and Dr. Ken Coates, Professor and Canada Research Chair in Regional Innovation at the Johnson Shoyama Graduate School of Public Policy, University of Saskatchewan. In addition, up to six panel presenters and 14 commissioned research papers will be presented in roundtable review sessions.
As part of the workshop, the commissioned papers will be published in a special issue of the double-blind peer-reviewed open-access Journal of New Brunswick Studies in 2024. The workshop provides an opportunity for everyone involved to continue the active work of reconciliation by creating space for reflection and dialogue.
“This workshop is an important opportunity for Mount Allison to demonstrate its commitment to reconciliation by engaging in meaningful dialogue with Indigenous leaders and communities," says Dr. Jeff Hennessy, Provost and Vice-President, Academic and Research at Mount Allison University. “We hope this event will inspire further collaboration and action towards a more equitable and just society.”
The workshop is led by Dr. Mario Levesque in Mount Allison’s Department of Politics & International Relations, along with a team of ten students. The workshop is a part of a SSHRC grant application that aims to encourage considerate dialogue and comprehensive knowledge exchange on the Peace & Friendship Treaties, the SCC's Marshall Decisions, and the ongoing journey towards reconciliation.
It is open to the public and interested individuals can register at .
Social media links, including itinerary:
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For media inquiries, please contact:
Dr. Mario Levesque, Associate Professor & Head, Department of Politics & International Relations, Mount Allison University, malevesque@mta.ca
The Hon. Graydon Nicholas, former Lt. Governor of New Brunswick (2009-2014), Chancellor and Endowed Chair in Native Studies, St. Thomas University, originally from Tobique First Nation, a Wolastoqey Elder, lawyer, judge, and activist, graydon@stu.ca
Dr. Ken Coates, Professor and Canada Research Chair in Regional Innovation, Johnson Shoyama Graduate School of Public Policy, University of Saskatchewan, ken.coates@usask.ca
