Building bridges between all communities
Issue link: http://publications.winnipegfreepress.com/i/73121
PAGE 18 • JULY 2012 STATEMENT BY THE PRIME MINISTER OF CANADA Anishinaabe Chi-Naaknigewin proclaimed by Grand Council SHEGUIANDAH FN (June 7, 2012) – The Anishinabek Nation has proclaimed the Anishinaabe Chi-Naaknige- win, the Anishinabek Nation constitution, setting a solid foundation for governance and the exercise of inherent rights bestowed by the Creator. The proclamation ceremony was held at the 2012 in Sheguiandah First Nation, where Grand Council, Chiefs accepted the Nation's constitution on behalf of its citizens. "It is a proud day for the Anishinabek Nation and our citizens because our leadership has taken an im- portant step toward reaffirming our inherent rights," said newly acclaimed Grand Council Chief Patrick Madahbee. The Anishinabek Nation constitution is the result of more than 14 years of development and consultation among Anishinabek citizens. Founded and guided by Ngo Dwe Waangizid Anishinaabe (One Anishinaabe Family), the Anishinaabe Chi-Naaknigewin marks a re- turn to Anishinaabe identity and traditional governance. It sets out the structure of the Anishinabek Nation Govern- ment with the power to develop laws and policies for the exercise of inherent jurisdictions belonging to the Anishi- nabek Nation. "Ngo Dwe Waangizid Anishinaabe is the covenant between the Anishinaabe and the Creator," said Lewis Debassige, M'Chigeeng First Nation Elder. "It is the heart of our Chi- Naaknigewin." Included in the covenant are the Anishinaabe val- ues and imperatives for the jurisdiction of lands and re- sources and for sovereignty. Madahbee has long been advocating for the proclamation of the Anishinaabe Chi- Naaknigewin, knowing that the possibilities it will create for the next seven generations are endless. "The Chi-Naaknigewin does not replace Anishinabek First Nation treaties or our inherent rights," said Madah- bee. "Instead it can assist our communities against colo- nial legislation by giving us a process to implement our treaty rights and assert our jurisdiction." Anishinabek First Nations are encouraged to develop their individual constitutions. The proclamation ceremony was conducted by An- ishinabek Nation Elder Gordon Waindubence, who per- formed a pipe ceremony in honour of the historic event. Chiefs and citizens continued the celebration into the evening with a feast and community social. The Anishinabek Nation established the Union of On- tario Indians as its secretariat in 1949. The UOI is a politi- cal advocate for 39 member communities across Ontario, representing approximately 55,000 people. The Union of Ontario Indians is the oldest political organization in On- tario and can trace its roots back to the Confederacy of Three Fires, which existed long before European contact. ~ Marci Becking, Communications Officer Aboriginal Day on National June 21, 2012 – Prime Minister Stephen Harper has issued the follow- ing statement to mark National Aboriginal Day: "Today we celebrate the rich and diverse culture of our country's Ab- original peoples and reflect upon the important role they have played and continue to play in shaping modern-day Canada. "Aboriginal peoples have made immense contributions to our nation. First Nations fought as allies in the War of 1812 and in every major conflict since, and their cultures and traditions continue to be an integral part of Canadian identity. The enduring relationship between the Government of Canada and First Nations is one based on mutual respect, friendship and support, and we are committed to working towards deepening this bond. "Our Government has made strengthening this relationship a priority. For instance, in 2008 we issued an historic apology to former students of Indian Residential Schools, and in 2010, we endorsed the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous peoples. In January of this year, we also participated alongside First Nations in the historic Crown-First Na- tions Gathering to set the context for renewed collaboration. "Moving forward, we will continue to build on these accomplishments in order to improve the lives of First Nations people across our country, and ensure that Aboriginal peoples benefit from full participation in the labour market and the same opportunities for self-sufficiency and prosperity as their fellow Canadians, including in the areas of health, training, education and governance. We will also continue to implement our Northern Strat- egy to benefit Aboriginal peoples living in Canada's North. "I encourage all Canadians to share in the celebration of National Ab- original Day by participating in the many events taking place today across the country." This document is also available at http://pm.gc.ca ~ PMO Press Office: 613-957-5555 YOUR LOCAL MOTORSPORT & MARINE DEALER Evinrude 90HP Engine $11,910 msrp Our Price $10,499 Plus shipping & handling #1 Honda ATV Dealer in Canada! See store manager for full catalogue and pricing.