The Royal Alberta Museum has return artifacts to a northern Alberta First Nation. (Image: Royal Alberta Museum)

By Canadian Press

"a great example"

Museum returns artifacts to First Nation in northern Alberta

Sep 27, 2022 | 12:38 PM

EDMONTON, AB – The Royal Alberta Museum has returned seven artifacts from its collection to the Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation.

Chief Allan Adam says in a statement that returning the artifacts is a great example of what can be achieved if people work together.

A Treaty 8 medal and its leather strap were physically returned, while the other five objects remain at the museum for preservation under the approval of the First Nation.

Alberta Culture Minister Ron Orr says repatriating ownership of stolen artifacts is a crucial part of reconciliation.

“Alberta’s government and the Royal Alberta Museum are committed to working with Indigenous communities to honour the significance of Indigenous artifacts and the stories they tell,” the minister said.

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The Royal Alberta Museum says it consults with Indigenous communities on a regular basis to ensure objects and stories at the museum are shared, cared for, and returned to their rightful owners.

“This is a great example of what’s possible when we work together,” added Chief Allan Adam, Chipewyan First Nation. “There is still much to do to repatriate additional items but we thank Minister Orr for recognizing the importance of returning these pieces of ACFN history. Marsi cho.”

Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation is located in Treaty 8, about 300 kilometres north of Fort McMurray.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Sept. 26, 2022.