The United Chiefs and Councils of Mnidoo Mnising (UCCM) have signed a historic agreement with the Government of Canada in what they see as a key step towards healing and reconciliation.

The settlement includes an apology and $447.9 million to be shared between the Aundeck Omni Kaning, M’Chigeeng, Sheguiandah, Sheshegwaning and Zhiibaahaasing First Nations and their members.

The negotiated resolution stems from the Crown’s mismanagement of money from the sale of First Nations lands on Manitoulin Island in the late 1800s.

Canada and the five nations had signed an agreement detailing how they would benefit from a trust created for profits from land sales in 1892.

But the federal government instead used money intended for First Nations to build roads and open Manitoulin Island for colonization.

On October 26, Crown-Indigenous Relations Minister Gary Anandasangaree delivered a speech formal declaration apology on behalf of the federal government.

He told around 100 people gathered at Aundeck Omni Kaning that the government had failed to fulfill its obligations and had created injustices that are still being felt today.

“There is no way to undo the past, nor to fully atone for the wrongs perpetrated over many decades,” Anandasangaree said in a statement.

“By reaching a negotiated settlement providing compensation to address historic wrongs, I believe we now have the opportunity to open a new chapter, one where trust can be rebuilt.”

Aundeck Omni Kaning Chief and UCCM Tribal Leader Patsy Corbiere said it was satisfying to finally reach this conclusion, especially without involving lawyers.

“This has been years in the making, years and years without real progress,” Corbiere said.

“So the negotiation actually works. It’s not just about legal battles.”

Leaders of other Manitoulin communities also welcomed the settlement.

“Sheshegwaning is pleased that Canada has taken this important step to resolve such long-standing breaches of fiduciary duty,” said Chief Alana Endanawas.

In Zhiibaahaasing, Chief Irene Kells said, “Our community has suffered the loss of these funds for too many years. We can’t wait to finally be able to build for our families and in accordance with our vision.”

Corbiere said how the money will be distributed to five First Nations has not been finalized, but some will be set aside to fight other land claims.

As for Aundeck Omni Kaning, she said they were looking at different things, but infrastructure was at the top of the list.

Corbiere said she estimates up to 100 people have returned to the community, especially with the recent settlement of the Robinson-Huron Treaty, but there remains a serious housing shortage and a need to upgrade water infrastructure and sewers.

“We have no place for subdivision, for expansion, for economic development,” Corbiere said. “This has actually caused a lot of damage to every community, including Aundeck Omni Kaning.”