Dawn Ostrem
Northern News Services

Dettah (July 04/01) - People were filing into Dettah earlier this week for the annual Akaitcho Treaty 8 assembly running July 2 to 6.

Jessie Sanderson from Fort Resolution helps get the sound system set up for the Akaitcho Treaty 8 annual general assembly in Dettah. - Dawn Ostrem/NNSL photo

The ninth annual assembly means dancing, feasting, speeches and political and policy discussion for members who have come in from as far as Lutsel K'e and Fort Resolution as well as Dettah and Ndilo.

Organizers said 41 voting delegates are expected for the annual general meeting that begins today.

"We are expecting a lot more people from all the communities," said Ernie Abel, who is organizing the week-long event.

"Some are staying in town, we are setting up a tent city in Dettah and some people are being billeted out."

On Monday the over 100 delegates began to arrive and took part in a feast and drum dance in Dettah.

All who came were stopped by residents hired to ensure the festivities remain alcohol-free for the week by checking vehicles.

Chief Richard Edjericon said it is customary for annual assembly organizers to order prohibition when the event takes place in their community.

"Traditionally it has been done for that week because we just want to have a good week and a good celebration," he said.

"We are just asking them to respect the community."

Tuesday an envisioning workshop was held along with hand games and another drum dance.

Today the annual general meeting for treaty members started, as well as a youth workshop on alcohol and drugs.

Comedian Don Bernstick, who has appeared several times on APTN, ran the workshop then provided entertainment in the evening at the Folk on the Rocks site with other local entertainers.

"His comedy reflects on native people and he is hilarious," Able said.

The next few days will be filled with games and meetings until everyone returns home on July 6.

agenda items

-Reports from chiefs

-Human resource development

-Guest presentations from such people as Premier Stephen Kakfwi and MP Ethel Blondin-Andrew and various MLAs

-Elders' questions arising from a culture campout last week about: Dene Nation, boundary issues, structure of negotiation team, Akaitcho grand chief position, Bill C-68, Indian Act and Canadian Mine Regulations.