The changing role and significance of native peoples: In Canada's Northwest Territories

• Published in: Polar Record
• Main Author: Wonders, William C.
• Format: Article in Journal/Newspaper
• Language: English
• Published: Cambridge University Press (CUP) 1987
• Subjects: General Earth and Planetary Sciences; Ecology; Geography, Planning and Development; Northwest Territories; Canada; Polar Record
• Online Access: http://dx.doi.org/10.1017/s0032247400008366; https://www.cambridge.org/core/services/aop-cambridge-core/content/view/S0032247400008366

Abstract In Canada's Northwest Territories native peoples constitute the majority of the population, a unique situation which has recently had significant repercussions, national as well as regional, and will continue to do so in the foreseeable future. Native peoples are already playing an increasingly important role politically and economically in the Territories, currently illustrated by a proposed restructuring of the northern political map of Canada. Resolution of Comprehensive Land Claims with the Government of Canada will provide them with a major role in resource development and in policy governing it. At the time that many native peoples are entering into more active participation in modern society, renewed interest that others are showing in aspects of traditional culture creates at least a potential source of friction among them.