Canada’s disparate union of indigenous peoples First Nations Grand Chief elected in Winnipeg vote

Democracy, elections and voting at Democracy Chronicles

From the Assembly of First Nations of Quebec and Labrador who released a press release titled, “AFNQL Chiefs congratulate National Chief Perry Bellegarde for his election“:

The Chiefs of the Assembly of First Nations of Quebec- Labrador (AFNQL) would like to extend their congratulations and express their support to newly elected National Chief Perry Bellegarde, a man of experience who will know how to face the numerous challenges impacting our Peoples and the national organization.

The First Nations Chiefs of Canada, gathered this week in Winnipeg for their Special Chiefs Assembly, demonstrated a clear willingness to move forward, to rebuild their national organization and to count on their own strengths, and that of their elders, women and youth to do so. The AFNQL will work hand in hand with all First Nations across the country in a spirit of unity and respect for diversity.

As of today, Ghislain Picard resumes his functions as AFNQL Regional Chief. The Innu Nation Chiefs have expressed, through Chief Jean-Charles Piétacho, their pride for supporting one of theirs as one of the National Chief Candidates and they also expressed their satisfaction to have a man of Ghislain Picard’s stature resuming his political mandate with the First Nations of Quebec- Labrador.

The Assembly of First Nation’s website also had posted, “Assembly of First Nations National Chief Receives, Responds to Open Letter by Aboriginal Affairs Minister Bernard Valcourt“. Take a look:

Assembly of First Nations (AFN) National Chief Shawn A-in-chut Atleo issued the following statement today regarding the response from Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada Minister Bernard Valcourt to the National Chief’s open letter of November 25 on First Nations education:

“The Assembly of First Nations has received the response from Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Minister Bernard Valcourt to the Open Letter sent to him on November 25, 2013 affirming the clear resolve of First Nations to advance First Nation control of First Nations education, stating clear concerns about the federal government’s proposal for a bill on First Nations education and setting out the requirements and expectations of First Nations.

It is important that the Minister has responded to these issues as First Nations education is a critical priority and was a key topic of discussion at the AFN Special Chiefs Assembly this week. The position of First Nations is clear and has been reaffirmed by unanimous resolution at our Assembly. First Nations have affirmed a path forward, opposing the federal proposal in its current form and seeking dialogue founded on the principle of First Nations control of First Nations education that values our languages and cultures and is supported by stable, sustainable and fair funding. The resolution calls upon Canada to negotiate to advance the Assembly of First Nations policy framework of 2010 First Nations Control of First Nations Education.

The Minister has stated that there is an opportunity for dialogue on terms set by the Chiefs. We will make efforts to ensure First Nations are aware of the Minister’s response. We will be carefully reviewing the Minister’s letter and setting out next steps through dialogue with all First Nations.”