Together we make history.

Preserving Heritage, Shaping Futures.

A future where the voices of First Nations guide policy and decision-making, fostering equitable relationships grounded in mutual respect.

Over 40 Years of Trusted Service.

The Treaty and Aboriginal Rights Research Centre of Manitoba, Inc. (T.A.R.R.), was established as a non-profit organization in 1982 by the National Indian Brotherhood. Representing 53 First Nation communities across Manitoba, T.A.R.R. offers no-cost research services for registered members, providing essential support in specific claims processes and Treaty Land Entitlement.

Our dedicated team combines expertise in Indigenous history, legal frameworks, and community advocacy to create meaningful change.

Uncovering truths through rigorous analysis of historical documents.

Partnering with community-chosen legal counsel for streamlined support.

Delivering comprehensive research reports to facilitate informed decisions.

Empowering the future.

Why T.A.R.R.?

Deep connections to the communities we serve, and a proven track record for driving impactful outcomes, with over 40 years of trusted service.

From passionate researchers like who champions Indigenous voices, to skilled librarians who curate invaluable historical documents—our team brings a diverse range of skills and dedication to every project that lands in our space.

Explore our journey …

Behind The Historical Research.

Introduction

Since its establishment in 1982, the Treaty and Aboriginal Rights Research Centre of Manitoba, Inc. (T.A.R.R.) has been dedicated to empowering Manitoba First Nations through specialized claims and historical research services. 

As a trusted resource for 53 First Nation communities, T.A.R.R. provides essential support to advance their Treaty and Aboriginal rights. Central to the organization’s mission is meticulous research into a variety of critical issues, including the history and interpretation of Treaties, management of Indian Trust Funds, and land claims. A cornerstone of this work has been addressing Treaty Land Entitlement (TLE), providing both historical research and technical expertise to ensure fair outcomes for First Nations.

T.A.R.R.’s focus extends to a broad spectrum of vital issues such as the protection and implementation of Treaty rights—hunting, fishing, trapping, and gathering—as well as broader Aboriginal rights and claims policy reform. By uncovering truths and providing rigorous analysis, the Centre plays a pivotal role in supporting communities as they seek justice, recognition, and the preservation of their heritage for future generations.

Research Program

At the request and in collaboration with a First Nation, the T.A.R.R. Centre conducts detailed research and develops claims addressing specific issues such as reserve land surrenders, reserve land alienations, the management of Indian Trust funds, and Treaty Land Entitlements. These comprehensive services are provided at no cost to its member First Nations, ensuring accessible support throughout the claims process.

If a claim submitted to Canada is rejected, T.A.R.R. works closely with the First Nation to explore alternative options that may lead to a resolution. When a claim is accepted for negotiation, the Centre remains available to assist during the negotiation process on a contractual basis, providing technical support to help achieve fair outcomes.

Beyond claims research, T.A.R.R. actively monitors and analyzes contemporary issues affecting First Nations, including the enforcement of rights guaranteed under Treaties, relevant case law, reforms to claims policies, and updates to the Indian Act. The Centre’s work is supported through annual funding provided by Indian and Northern Affairs Canada, enabling it to undertake critical claims research and development on behalf of its member First Nations.

Governance Structure

The T.A.R.R. Centre operates with accountability and dedication to its member First Nations. Oversight and strategic direction are provided by a Board of Directors composed of Chiefs representing eight regions across Manitoba, which align with the Tribal Council areas. This Board meets regularly to guide the Centre’s vision and ensure its operations align with the needs of the communities it serves.

The Centre’s Head Office is located within the Brokenhead Ojibway Nation (I.R. #4), reflecting its deep connection to the land and the people it supports.

To support its mission, the T.A.R.R. Centre’s Winnipeg Research Office is staffed by a team of three skilled researchers and one administrative professional. This office serves as the hub for claims development, historical research, and community advocacy, enabling the Centre to deliver high-quality support to its member First Nations.

Resource Centre

The T.A.R.R. Centre houses an extensive collection of historical materials with a primary focus on the First Nations of Manitoba. This invaluable library includes valuable resources  and a wide range of general historical works, making it a vital repository for researchers, students, and community members alike. To enhance research capabilities, the library’s catalog is fully computerized, offering streamlined access to its comprehensive collection. While the library is open to the general public, it operates as a reference-only facility, meaning materials cannot be borrowed or removed from the premises. For convenience, photocopying services are available for a nominal fee. For optimal access to the collection, visitors are encouraged to provide advance notice before visiting the Winnipeg Research Office.

Highlights from the collection include, but are not limited to: department of Indian Affairs Records (micro-media), historical records for each First Nation, detailed maps of Aboriginal Reserves in Manitoba, and archival photographs.

The T.A.R.R. Centre’s library serves as a bridge to the past, preserving and sharing the stories, struggles, and triumphs of First Nations communities for future generations.

Your story, our mission: Together, we make history.

Established by the National Indian Brotherhood in 1982 as a non-profit research organization, the T.A.R.R. Centre of Manitoba specializes in research related to Treaty rights, Aboriginal Rights, Treaty Land Entitlement and Claims Policy Reform. The T.A.R.R. Centre represents 53 First Nation communities within Manitoba and provides an essential, no cost research service for all registered members of T.A.R.R. Essentially, the T.A.R.R. Centre is the first phase of the specific claims process in determining the validity of a potential specific claim through historical and legal analysis.

The T.A.R.R. Centre of Manitoba works collaboratively with legal counsel chosen by either the T.A.R.R. Centre or the member community to streamline the research to suit a required legal argument. Once the research is complete, T.A.R.R. will then provide the First Nation community with a research report for review and consideration. The community would then have the option to submit the claim to the Specific Claims Branch (SCB) for minimum standards review. If accepted for negotiations within SCB, T.A.R.R. would then be released of all responsibility moving forward within the claims process unless contracted by the First Nation to provide technical support during the negotiation phase.

Gordon Blackburde
Morgan Brightnose

Gordon Blackburde &

Morgan Brightnose

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Explore the Land. Understand the History.

Land is more than just a place—it’s the heart of our history, culture, and future. The T.A.R.R. Centre provides access to detailed maps and historical records that highlight the journey of Treaty Land Entitlements, reserve boundaries, and the legacy of First Nations in Manitoba.

These maps not only tell stories of the past but also guide our path toward equitable resolutions and land restoration.

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