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Queen's University professor's research on oral histories could play a crucial role in treaty negotiations.

OTTAWA, CANADA - Mark Walters' efforts to recapture Canada's First Nations' oral histories have earned him the prestigious 2002 Jules and Gabrielle Léger Fellowship, the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada (SSHRC) announced today.

"Professor Walters is one of Canada's rising stars and his research will fill a gap in our understanding of aboriginal treaties," says SSHRC president Marc Renaud. "The results of his study will help clarify the Aboriginal point of view during ongoing treaty interpretations as Canada continues to move forward with the resolution of Aboriginal rights cases."

Walters' focus on finding and recording oral histories to help bring a fuller understanding of the Aboriginal perspective during treaty agreements comes just as British Columbia voters passed a set of eight principles in a highly controversial referendum designed to guide the provincial government during future negotiations.

In particular, his research will attempt to unlock the intent of Aboriginal delegates during treaty discussions by studying and documenting oral histories and making their perspective available to today's negotiators.

"My research focuses on pre-Confederation treaty relationships and attitudes toward the Crown, and how they shaped law and legal institutions in Canada affecting Aboriginal peoples," says Walters. "I'm really excited about this award because it will allow me to dedicate myself completely to this research for the next year."

Awarded biennially since 1979, the Jules and Gabrielle Léger Fellowship promotes research and writing on the historical and contemporary contribution of the Crown and its representatives, federal and provincial, to the political, constitutional, cultural, intellectual, and social life of the country, including comparisons between Canadian and Commonwealth systems.

The 12-month fellowship is valued at $40,000, with an additional allowance of $10,000 for travel and research expenses. The winner is chosen by a five-member panel of expert scholars in international and constitutional law, refugee and immigration law, human rights, social, legal and constitutional history, ethnicity, legal philosophy, geography, and education.

SSHRC is an independent federal government agency that funds university-based research and graduate training through national peer- review competitions. SSHRC also partners with public and private sector organizations to focus research and aid the development of better policies and practices in key areas of Canada's social, cultural and economic life.

SSHRC is one of 15 Government of Canada departments and agencies which make up the Industry Portfolio of Industry Canada. Together these departments and agencies support the Government's Innovation Strategy and help build a culture of innovation in all parts of Canada.

For further information: on this release and other SSHRC research projects, please contact: Doré Dunne, Media and Public Relations Officer, Telephone: 613-992-7302, E-mail: dore.dunne@sshrc.ca