“Since time immemorial, Great Lakes Indigenous peoples have long-standing nation-to-nation agreements between themselves and their more- than-human relatives for the protection and stewardship of the region. These agreements serve as the foundation for shared governance. According to Anishinaabeg teachings passed from one generation to the next, the people have a long-time, reciprocal obligation with all orders of creation rooted in the people’s First Treaty with Gichi Manidoo (the Creator). Also known as Sacred Law or The Great Laws of Nature, the First Treaty obligates all orders of creation, all created from rock, water, fire, and wind – the physical world of sun, stars, moon and earth; plant beings; animal beings; and human beings – to care for one another. The Great Laws govern placement, movement, powers, rhythm and continuity: all things live and work by these laws.” (“Ojibway Heritage,” Basil Johnson, 1976)

The image shown here is commonly referred to as the Symbolic Petition of the Chippewa Chiefs, it was intended as a message to President Fillmore to show that all the chiefs were connected in their vision and authorizing Chief Buffalo of the Crane Clan to speak on their behalf.

The First Treaty provides the framework for Anishinaabe’s relationships with all of creation, this idea is reinforced through practice, stories, and lifestyle. To see how it guides the department’s work please visit the RESOURCES page for a full view of all our publications, assessments, and studies.