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'Hang Onto These Words': Johnny David's Delgamuukw Evidence
Contributor(s): Mills, Antonia (Editor)

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ISBN: 0802037461     ISBN-13: 9780802037466
Publisher: University of Toronto Press
OUR PRICE: $113.05  

Binding Type: Hardcover - See All Available Formats & Editions
Published: December 2005
* Out of Print *

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Additional Information
BISAC Categories:
- Social Science | Ethnic Studies - Native American Studies
- Law | Evidence
- Social Science | Anthropology - Cultural & Social
Dewey: 346.711
Series: Heritage
Physical Information: 502 pages
Themes:
- Ethnic Orientation - Native American
Features: Glossary, Illustrated
 
Descriptions, Reviews, Etc.
Publisher Description:

In 1985 and 1986, ninety-year-old Witsuwit'en Chief, Maxlaxlex - or Johnny David as he is better known - was the first Witsuwit'en to give Commission Evidence in the Delgamuukw land claims case in which the Witsuwit'en and Gitxsan of Northern British Columbia were battling for title to their traditional territories.

'Hang Onto These Words' presents the actual transcripts of the questions and answers between lawyers working on both sides and this knowledgeable and outspoken Native elder who spoke in his own language and whose words were then translated by an interpreter into English. The evidence was given in a makeshift courtroom set up in David's own home. Anthropologist Antonia Mills was present during these proceedings, and in this book, she introduces and contextualizes the evidence within the Delgamuukw case.

In his testimony, David provides a rich description of the Witsuwit'en way of life as well as the injustices suffered at the hands of Indian agents and settlers. He ends his testimony saying, "If you hang on to these words, everything will be all right." The challenge of hearing his voice, and using it to negotiate the meaning and substance of Aboriginal rights remains unresolved and resonant.


Contributor Bio(s): Mills, Antonia: -

Antonia Mills is an associate professor in the First Nations Studies Program at the University of Northern British Columbia.


 
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