"Special trees deserve recognition so they can be protected, especially if they have played an important role in Manitoba history or have unique characteristics," said Minister Nevakshonoff. "This program will help ensure these trees are protected and their histories are shared with locals and visitors alike."

If it is so easy to protect trees that have had an important role in the history of Manitoba, lets then protect the plants and medicines the original inhabitants of Manitoba have used for thousands of years? Aboriginal Traditional Knowledge studies have been done in enough communities in Manitoba. It would be easy to identify medicines and plants used by First Nations and recognise quite a few more Heritage Plants.

The announcement by Minister Nevakshonoff is profoundly lacking in understanding of the relevance of heritage plants in Manitoba. With so many First Nations in Manitoba it would make better sense to protect First Nation medicines as heritage plants that have truly played an important role in the history of the land. This would reflect a more conscious respect for the land and its inhabitants, some of whom have been here for thousands and thousands of years.

At best the announcement by the Manitoba Government and Minister Nevakshonoff is condescending. He needs to commit to protection of traditional medicine plants right away.

View October 1, 2015 Manitoba Government news release
View February 14, 2015 WC Native News article
View March 19, 2003 National Aboriginal Health Organization report
View 2013 First Nations Perspectives article
View Assembly of First Nations Honouring Earth page