Ipperwash Crisis 1995: Ipperwash Provincial Park

Background Info In 1995, the Ipperwash Crisis was a Indigenous land dispute. It took place in the Ipperwash Provincial Park, Ontario. During World War II, the federal government wanted to buy reserve land from Stoney Point Band so they could use a base for military training. They offered $15 per acre, but the Natives rejected the offer. Later, the government expropriated the land under the War Measures Act.

The Crisis 30 members of the band began their occupation of the park on September 4, 1995 to assert their claim to the land. They wanted to peacefully occupy the land, but the Ontario government headed by Mike Harris wanted them to be removed. The O.P.P staged a raid on the camp, and Dudley George who was an Ojibwa man was shot to death.

Inquiry Years after, an official inquiry was initiated. Revealed that the death was mostly due to racist views held against the aboriginals. “I want the f**king Indians out of the park” ~ Mike Harris “We want to amass a f**king army. A real f**king army and do this. Do these f**kers big-time.” ~ Stan Korosec

Recommendations 1.Establishment of an independent body, the Treaty Commission of Ontario, to oversee land claims settlements 2.Increased public education about treaties and land claims 3.Creation of a provincial Ministry of Aboriginal Affairs 4.Creation of a consultation committee involving the OPP and Aboriginal organizations 5.Ongoing education of OPP leaders in terms of Aboriginal history, customs, and rights 6.Involvement of the federal government in any Aboriginal occupations or protests, particularly those involving land claims