Final Argument

In November 1976, the lawyers who had appeared before the Berger Inquiry made their
final arguments, summing up their positions on key issues.

Their goal was to persuade Judge Berger to take their views into account as he wrote
his final report for the government of Canada.

In a 1977 interview, Dene leader George Erasmus described the Dene Nation's argument.
The primary goal was self-determination.

But the Metis Association of the NWT, which had partnered with the Dene Nation
throughout the inquiry, made a very different argument.

Students were asked to consider: Did the split between the two organizations, coming so
late in the inquiry, pose a dilemma for Judge Berger?

Students were asked to put themselves in Judge Berger's chair. What recommendations
would they make to the federal government?

They examined the notes on their worksheets. Then, they broke into groups and debated
key points. Finally, they wrote their recommendations.

Students studied the Berger Inquiry's report to the federal government. Did Judge
Berger respect the arguments of the Dene Nation? Of the Metis?

Listen as Michael Jackson, who organized the community hearings at the inquiry, explains
how the Inquiry staff arrived at their conclusions.