the rationale behind the negotiation was due in part because of improvements in boating technology, but also because of the economic necessity of the region. As he would state in his self-written book, The Treaties of Canada with the Indians of Manitoba and the North-west Territories: "The progress of navigation by steamer on Lake Winnipeg, the establishment of Missions and of saw milling enterprises, the discovery of minerals on the shores and vicinity of the lake as well as migration of the Norway House Indians." Initially, the Cree people negotiating an adhesion to Treaty 5 wished to have their reserve lands cover both sides of the Saskatchewan River entering into the Lake Winnipeg, but were nonetheless convinced to accept the Southern shore. The reason is still unclear as to how these negotiations played out. National Cree Gathering 2007 Misipawistik Cree Nation hosted the 12th annual National Cree Gathering, a week-long event where Cree people from all over Canada and the United States came together to promote, preserve, and proclaim their traditional ceremonial practices, their distinct languages, and their ways of life. A central component of the National Cree Gathering is the 'Unity Run' which involves youth from multiple participating communities. These youth run the journey from the previous hosting community to the next hosting community. In certain years, this journey can encompass over 2000 kilometres. This year, the youth will be running from Moose Factory, Ontario to Misipawistik Cree Nation. Demographics With a population of approximately 716 members, Misipawistik is a small community compared to the average First Nations community. The population consists of Cree, Metis people, and other First Nations people. Cree, and English are the two languages most widely used. Notable members Ovide Mercredi Dr. Marlyn Cook References Peter Kulchyski and Ramona Neckoway, The town that lost its name: the impact of hydroelectric development on Grand Rapids, Manitoba (Winnipeg: Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives, August 2006) 20 pages. Tough, Frank. ‘As Their Natural Resources Fail’: Native Peoples and the Economic History of Northern Manitoba, 1870-1930. Vancouver, British Columbia: University of British Columbia Press, 1996. External links Misipawistik Cree Nation Website AANDC profile Website for the 12th Annual National Cree Gathering Map of Grand Rapids 33 at Statcan First Nations governments in Manitoba First Nations in Northern Region, Manitoba Swampy Cree Tribal Council