Kawechetwemot’s Trial

Summary

During Kawechetwemot’s trial John Craig—the farm instructor on the Little Pine reserve—justified his withholding of rations that led to Kawechetwemot’s discontent. He stated: “My orders with respect to giving rations are that I am to give them to the old and to the sick and to no others unless they work. I am not allowed to deviate from these orders.” Because Kawehetwemot was not sick enough to deserve rations they were refused.

Implications
This testimony indicates how the Canadian Government instructed their employees to withhold rations to entice First Nations individuals to work and cooperate with governmental desires. By doing this, the government was refusing to uphold their treaty obligation to provide rations during times of famine and disease.
Sources

Saskatchewan Herald, July 12, 1884.

Sub Event
John Craig’s Testimony
Date
1884-07-12
Theme(s)