2011 Special Chiefs Assembly

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The Assembly of First Nations (AFN) December Special Chiefs Assembly (SCA) was held December 6 - 8, 2011 in Ottawa, Ontario.
The theme was "Realizing our Rights: Unlocking our Economies."

VIEW VIDEOS FROM THIS GATHERING
http://www.afn.ca/index.php/en/news-med ... ur-economi

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VIEW VIDEOS FROM THIS GATHERING
http://www.afn.ca/index.php/en/news-med ... ur-economi

Chiefs support Akwesasne in fighting community's drug crisis. . .
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Affirming Treaty Right to Travel Freely
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Huron and Mohawks sign agreement reaffirming their historical trading arrangements . . .
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Habitat for Humanity Canada and AFN
Prioritizing affordable housing in First Nations communities
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First Nations chiefs unanimous in their support for communities in crisis.
Here is the emergency resolution passed today (December 6th, 2011)
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National Chief Shawn A-in-chut Atleo
December 6, 2011
OPENING REMARKS
Special Chiefs Assembly 2011
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AFN Echo - December 8, 2011

UPDATES AND PRESENTATIONS:

A number of updates and presentations were made to delegates of the AFN Special Chiefs Assembly yesterday, including Holmes on Homes housing initiative, IndigenACTION and the First Nations Statistical Institute.

“G’wiigwaamnaaniin”–Building Homes and Building Skills Project: An initiative launched at the 2010 AFN AGA in Winnipeg, the “Building Homes and Building Skills Project” is a pilot project aimed to assist in building homes, enhancing community design and planning and utilizing appropriate green technologies and clean energy sources to improve health and living conditions in First Nations communities. A pilot project is well underway in Atikameksheng Anishnawbek First Nation, where the Holmes Group is working together with the community to build new and retrofit existing housing units. Their work is based on creating greater energy efficiency, housing durability and a healthier indoor environment. There are already positive impacts at the community level, including healthier homes, controlled regulatory environments, enhanced capacity within the community, including improved education, skills and experience, and community development overall. A number of key factors are attributed to the success of the project, including utilizing a comprehensive approach and traditional teachings as a guide, following the sustainable “green” principles of the ancestors, as well as the importance of self-sufficiency.

IndigenACTION: Olympian and IndigenACTION Ambassador Waneek Horn-Miller presented the findings of regional roundtable discussions as part of this effort in supporting and enhancing opportunities for Indigenous peoples through sport, community fitness, wellness and recreation. After three roundtable sessions with participation from all regions, key themes emerged, including the fact that multiple parties are responsible for Indigenous fitness, wellness, sports and recreation. It was found that two streams of opportunity exist – athlete development and recreation and physical activity. It was also concluded from the roundtable sessions that improved coordination of existing efforts is required and that prioritization of areas and opportunity for strengthening must be done. Next steps include finalizing a draft report for review, including recommendations and national strategy, establishing a working group, and reconfirming a mandate moving forward from the leadership.

STRATEGIZING, MOVING FORWARD
Delegates of the Special Chiefs Assembly participated in a number of strategy sessions on Day 3 of the national Assembly. Based on recommendations from First Nation leadership, these sessions are designed to maximize political dialogue and deliberation specific to First Nation government strategy interests in priority areas. The purpose of these sessions is to provide time and space for focused discussion and to advance action.

Yesterday’s strategy sessions covered the following topics:

Environmental Stewardship: A discussion paper was shared, providing suggestions for the mandate, structure and governance of the proposed First Nation Natural Resources Institute. Discussion will help inform an implementation plan for presentation anticipated for the AFN Annual General Assembly in July 2012.

Land Rights and Claims: Three specific areas of work were discussed in this session as follow up to dialogue at the AFN Annual General Assembly July 2011 – Comprehensive Claims Policy reform, Improving the Additions to Reserve policy and process, and Specific Claims/Tribunal. A number of new resolutions have informed AFN’s mandates in these areas, and significant progress is expected to be made over the coming year.

Water: First Nation water rights and interests are increasingly important and interconnected to the overall health and economic well-being of First Nation citizens and communities. This session focused on key strategies to advancing and protecting First Nation water rights as well as ensuring access to safe drinking water. Discussion at this session will directly contribute to the planning and objectives of the National Water Forum taking place March 2012.

Justice: This session focused on concerns with the proposed Bill C-10 (Safe Streets and Communities Act), as well as required resources for First Nation policing and restorative justice, support for the families of missing and murdered Aboriginal women and action for ending violence against Aboriginal women and girls. There was an overview of past recommendations and discussion on advancing a new strategy for First Nation justice interests.

Children and Families: The over-representation of children in the child welfare system and the root causes is of critical concern to all First Nations. Ensuring fair and equitable supports for children is a key priority. This session focused on seeking ideas for the development of effective approaches and solutions at the local, regional and national levels.

RESOLUTIONS UPDATE:

33 resolutions were passed by consensus at the December 2011 Special Chiefs Assembly.

The list, with final numbering, is as follows:

46-2011 Call for Fundamental Structural Change to Support all First Nation Communities in Crisis

47-2011 Appointment of Chief Electoral Officer

48-2011 Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada’s Education Information System

49-2011 Funding of First Nation Libraries

50-2011 Support for Ebb and Flow First Nation Development of First Nations Vocational Training

51-2011 Design and Minting of Canadian Circulation Coins to Commemorate the Treaties between the Crown and the First Nations of Canada

52-2011 First Nations Right to Travel Freely

53-2011 First Nations e-Community Strategy

54-2011 Support for the Blood Tribe and the Protection of the Rights of Former Indian Residential School (IRS) Students in the Independent Assessment Process (IAP) of the Indian Residential Schools Settlement Agreement (IRSSA)

55-2011 Ongoing Impacts of Indian Residential Schools

56-2011 Support for the Mi'kmaq/Maliseet Healing Networking Center and other Indian Residential Schools Healing Initiatives beyond 2012

57-2011 Support for Akwesasne Leadership in Addressing State of Crisis Regarding Substance Abuse

58-2011 Saving Lives by Training First Nation Defibrillator Operators and by Placing a Defibrillator in Every First Nation

59-2011 Protection of the tax exemption rights of First Nations

60-2011 Support for Northlands Denesuline First Nation new nursing station by 2013

61-2011 Support for Promotion of Lacrosse to First Nation Communities in Canada

62-2011 Support for the National Indian Football Association

63-2011 Protection and Conservation of Lands and Waters

64-2011 Support for a Negotiated Joint Panel Review in Matawa Region

65-2011 Support for Renewal of Federal Fisheries Inland Habitat Programs

66-2011 Successful Aquaculture Governance

67-2011 Investigating Options for the Implementation of the First Nations Natural Resource Institute

68-2011 Support for Possible Intervention in Nuu-chah-nulth Fishing Rights Litigation (Ahousaht et al v. Canada)

69-2011 Moratorium on Hydraulic Fracturing

70-2011 Improving the Additions to Reserve Policy and Process

71-2011 Comprehensive Claims Policy Reform Initiative

72-2011 Treaty Land Entitlement Claims in Manitoba

73-2011 Expediting the process of obtaining a new reserve for Lake St. Martin First Nation due to Artificial Flooding

74-2011 Call for Investments to Respond to the National Water & Wastewater Engineering Assessment Report

75-2011 Reform of First Nations Policing Program

76-2011 Jurisdiction and Consultation on Child Welfare Policies

77-2011 Moratorium on oil and gas drilling in Gulf of St-Lawrence

78-2011 Second International Indigenous Border Security Summit

Due to lack of time, the following resolutions have been referred to the AFN Executive to review at their next meeting:
• First Nations Right to Determine Citizenship
• All Chiefs Plan
• Resource Revenue/ Benefit Sharing
• Support for the National Indian and Inuit Community Health Representatives Organization (NIICHRO)
• Support for Action
• Housing as a National Priority


AFN Echo - December 7, 2011

STRATEGIZING, MOVING FORWARD

Delegates of the Special Chiefs Assembly participated in a number of strategy sessions on Day 2 of this national Assembly. Based on recommendations from First Nation leadership, these sessions are designed to maximize political dialogue and deliberation specific to First Nation government strategy interests in priority areas. The purpose of these sessions is to provide time and space for focused discussion and to advance action.

Yesterday’s strategy sessions covered the following topics:

Education: With the growing consensus that transformative change in First Nation education is essential, this session focused on strategies to implement change at the local, regional and national levels on an urgent basis. Discussion included an update on outcomes from AFN’s Annual General Assembly in July 2011 and two national reports on First Nation education.

Treaty Strategy: The AFN National Strategy on Treaty Implementation is guided by resolution No.07/2010 – Sacred Treaties – Sacred Trust: Working Together for Treaty Implementation and Advancing our Sovereignty as Nations. The goal of this work is to support and stand behind the efforts of Treaty holders to secure the full recognition and respectful implementation of Treaties with the Crown. The session focused on Treaty implementation between the First Nations treaty parties and the Crown as well as process requirements and dispute resolution.

Advancing First Nation Governments: This session focused on two areas of specifically mandated activity – citizenship and fiscal relations. Discussion included a synthesis of the AFN-facilitated National Dialogue on First Nation Citizenship and recommendations for future action. Latest research tools were presented and discussed to help support First Nations in advancing a new fiscal relationship with Canada based on key principles of respect for rights and sustainability.

Economic Partnerships: Participants in this session reviewed all recent resolutions regarding First Nation economic priorities and opportunities to supporting First Nation economic potential. Discussion focused on economic growth and infrastructure from a number of viewpoints, including connectivity, labour force, taxation, trade and improving overall efforts with the federal government to better facilitate economic priorities at the local, regional and national levels.

Residential Schools: This session focused on the development of clear strategies and support for all local, regional and national efforts supporting residential schools survivors in their healing journeys, including compensation, commemoration, respect and reconciliation.

Health and Substance Abuse: This session built on the work of the AFN National Health Forum, highlighting First Nation-driven plans to addressing substance abuse challenges.

“REFORMING FIRST NATIONS EDUCATION: FROM CRISIS TO HOPE” – Report of the Standing Senate Committee on Aboriginal Peoples

The Standing Senate Committee on Aboriginal Peoples released a report today on First Nations Education. The AFN presented to this committee, including a special closing presentation by National Chief Shawn Atleo. The report is available here.

RESOLUTIONS UPDATE:

The following fourteen resolutions were passed December 7, 2011 by consensus. There has been a request for the "Declaration of First Nations" (originally signed in 1980) to be reaffirmed at the end of the session Thursday afternoon. More details will be available during the day.

32-2011
Appointment of Chief Electoral Officer

01-2011
Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada’s Education Information System

02-2011
Funding of First Nation Libraries

03-2011
Support for Ebb and Flow First Nation Development of First Nations Vocational Training

05-2011
Design and Minting of Canadian Circulation Coins to Commemorate the Treaties between the Crown and the First Nations of Canada

06-2011
First Nations Right to Travel Freely

09-2011
First Nations e-Community Strategy

10-2011
Support for the Blood Tribe and the Protection of the Rights of Former Indian Residential School (IRS) Students in the Independent Assessment Process (IAP) of the Indian Residential Schools Settlement Agreement (IRSSA)

11-2011
Ongoing Impacts of Indian Residential Schools

12-2011
Support for the Mi'kmaq/Maliseet Healing Networking Center and other Indian Residential Schools Healing Initiatives beyond 2012

14-2011
Saving Lives by Training First Nation Defibrillator Operators and by Placing a Defibrillator in Every First Nation

08-2011
Protection of the tax exemption rights of First Nations

15-2011
Support for Northlands Denesuline First Nation new nursing station by 2013

13-2011
Support for Akwesasne Leadership in Addressing State of Crisis Regarding Substance Abuse

STATEMENTS OF PARTNERSHIP:

On Tuesday during the SCA this week, The Institute of Public Administration of Canada and the Assembly of First Nations formalized a partnership in fostering public sector excellence. The partnership signifies a commitment to strengthen the collaboration between both organizations and to share knowledge and experience in a range of public sector matters.

A Memorandum of Understanding was signed by AFN National Chief Atleo and IPAC President Maria David Evans.

In his opening remarks Tuesday morning, National Chief Atleo commented on AFN’s progress saying “First Nations are driving change through advancing their own governments, building capacity and accountability through taking on greater responsibilities.”

“This MOU gives us the platform at both the national level as well as in our Regional Chapters to share experiences, jointly hone our administrative skills and build collegial networks from a base of mutual respect and partnership. This will support and promote our aim of excellence in public service for all Canadians. “said Maria David Evans, President of IPAC.

The Institute of Public Administration of Canada (IPAC), founded in 1947, is a dynamic association of public servants, academics, and others interested in public administration that creates effective knowledge networks across all orders of government and leads public administration research in Canada. Since the early 1990’s, it has been a major player in exporting successful Canadian public-sector expertise around the world.

echo
December 6, 2011

WELCOME!
Welcome to the AFN Echo – a daily newsletter direct from the Assembly of First Nations Special Chiefs Assembly (SCA) taking place on Algonquin territory in Ottawa, Ontario December 6 – 8, 2011. The purpose of this daily e-newsletter is to highlight the important discussions, decisions and events of this important Chiefs Assembly. Please also check out the official Assembly of First Nations/Assemblee des premieres nations Facebook Page, Twitter accounts @NCAtleo @AFN_Updates and @AFN_Comms for regular updates. AFN is also pleased to provide updates direct to your mobile phone. Text “AFN” to 22660 for regular updates from the SCA – standard rates apply.

A MOMENT OF RECKONING
Under the theme “Realizing our Rights: Unlocking our Economies”, over 600 First Nation Chiefs, youth and Elders from across the country kicked off a three-day Assembly in Ottawa today. This week, delegates will engage on strategy and action to address the priorities facing First Nation citizens and communities.

In light of the emergency situation in Attawapiskat First Nation in Treaty 9 territory in Northern Ontario, Chiefs from across Canada stood in support of the leadership and citizens of Attawapiskat in Assembly today. Attawapiskat Chief Theresa Spence addressed Chiefs along with Mushkegowuk Council Chief Grand Chief Louttit. “It's been a rough journey,” Chief Spence told the delegation. “The real heroes are the people who are living in the tent frames and sheds. Their lives are at risk right now. Winter is here.”

A unanimous resolution was passed by Chiefs in Assembly to advocate for the Government of Canada to work together with Attawapiskat First Nation and ALL First Nation communities to address urgent need and develop jointly-designed plans focused on long-term, sustainable solutions. The resolution also instructs AFN to request the United Nations Economic and Social Council and Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues to appoint a Special Rapporteur to monitor Canada’s actions and to hold Canada accountable to its responsibilities under the Treaties.

Following a standing ovation for Chief Spence’s leadership, a number of delegates marched to Parliament Hill to show their support and the need for urgent action by the Government of Canada.

Achieving adequate housing and infrastructure is just one priority for First Nation communities across the country living in third world conditions, requiring safe and adequate housing and infrastructure, access to clean drinking water and education.

AFN National Chief Shawn A-in-chut Atleo spoke directly to the need for a fundamental transformation in the relationship between First Nations and the Crown and the importance of moving forward based on a solid foundation built in Treaties, First Nation rights, jurisdiction and responsibilities. This is the purpose of the Crown-First Nation Gathering – a meeting between Prime Minister Harper and First Nations scheduled for January 24, 2011.

“We need the energy, ideas and most importantly the commitment of all parties to achieve change NOW. This may be the moment of reckoning,” said AFN National Chief Atleo in his opening address to Chiefs-in-Assembly and other SCA delegates, in reference to the Crown-First Nations Gathering. “Together, First Nations and the Crown will identify our challenges, mark our progress and most importantly we will develop a new agenda for future priorities together.”

RIGHTS RECOGNITION:
Chiefs in Assembly recognized the commitment of the Hul’qumi’num Treaty Group from British Columbia to secure the recognition and respect for Indigenous rights in Canada. AFN BC Regional Chief Jody Wilson-Raybould presented a Certificate of Honour to the Treaty Group Tuesday afternoon in the main plenary.

PARLIAMENTARY RECEPTION:
Over 150 Chiefs and delegates attended a Parliamentary Reception Tuesday evening with Members of Parliament from all parties, Senators and international representatives. This is just one part of AFN’s work to facilitate relationship building between First Nations and Parliamentarians to build the foundations and networks to address the issues impacting First Nations together.

STATEMENTS OF PARTNERSHIP:
Habitat for Humanity Canada and the Assembly of First Nations (AFN) announced Tuesday a partnership to improve housing in First Nation communities.

Together, Habitat for Humanity Canada and AFN will collaborate to increase First Nations' involvement in Habitat projects and enhance opportunities for First Nations people to further their knowledge and skills applicable to all dimensions of housing, while adding to the housing stock.

Habitat for Humanity Canada's president and CEO, Stewart Hardacre and First Nations National Chief, Shawn A-in-chut Atleo, will sign the official statement of partnership in Ottawa later today. "I thank Habitat for Humanity Canada for inviting AFN to this partnership," said Assembly of First Nations National Chief, Shawn A-in-chut Atleo. "This will enhance First Nations' ability to explore new options to satisfy its housing needs. It sends a clear message to the Canadian public and Government of Canada that we are open to engaging with other partners to satisfy our needs and priorities. Creating safer and healthier First Nations' communities is one of our biggest challenges as First Nations leaders. We hope that this will be the catalyst to spur on other organizations, corporations and individuals to get involved with First Nations."

As part of the partnership, Habitat for Humanity Canada and AFN will establish a committee dedicated to overseeing and assessing the effectiveness of the work to be carried out under the new partnership agreement. The committee will be co-chaired by one representative of AFN and one representative of Habitat for Humanity Canada.

"Habitat for Humanity Canada and our affiliate partners are committed to working with the Assembly of First Nations to implement solutions that will address the housing needs of Canada's First Nations population," said Stewart Hardacre, President and CEO, Habitat for Humanity Canada. "Aboriginal Housing is a priority for HFHC over the next five years, so we look forward to partnering with AFN to affect change in more communities across Canada."

Habitat for Humanity Canada affiliates in Manitoba, Alberta, Saskatchewan and Ontario have built over 35 Habitat homes as part of Habitat's Aboriginal Housing Program. Habitat for Humanity Canada's commitment to Aboriginal Housing is long-standing and solidified by this partnership.

AFN National Chief Shawn A-in-chut Atleo is also a member of Habitat for Humanity Canada's National Leadership Council, which launched on November 22nd, to help build partnerships with key aboriginal communities in core housing need, corporate and individual partners also. Through Habitat for Humanity's 'Build-Buy-Reinvest' model, the organization will continue to partner with aboriginal communities across Canada to provide safe, decent and affordable housing to Canada's First Nations' people.
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December 6th, 2011 - Hundreds of First Nations leaders from across Canada are gathered in Ottawa for the Special Chiefs Assembly, where there is outrage over the government's handling of the crisis in Attawapiskat. Chiefs have called for efforts to rebuke the federal government, but there also were calls for First Nations to take their own collective action to help communities that are in dire straits. There even was a call for establishing a First Nations third party manager to go into troubled communities before the government takes such action. In his opening remarks, AFN National Chief Shawn A-in-chut Atleo
said, "Canada saw for the first time last week what we see every day. What our people live with day in and day out. Some of our communities – too many of our peoples - live in appalling conditions. This is a national disgrace. And we have reason to feel angry and betrayed." In fact, some of the First Nations leaders at the Special Assembly were so incensed over the government's treatment of Attawapiskat, that during the break they staged "direct action" by leaving the assembly and walking to Parliament Hill to make their point of protest against Canada's treatment of First Nations.

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( AIAI photos of chiefs and other representatives who marched to Parliament Hill from the Special Assembly http://www.facebook.com/aiai.pto )

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The theme of this week's Special Chiefs Assembly is "Realizing our Rights: Unlocking our Economies." The National Chief said treaty and inherent rights and building effective First Nations governments is at the center of the fight. "It's also a pursuit for healthier, safer, more prosperous communities. Ensuring our people get the jobs and economic benefits when development of the resources occurs on our lands. After all, how can a young person build a life as that skilled employee while trapped in a life of substance dependency? How can we build that strong local community government without the stable funding for its institutions? We need to WIN the treaty and rights implementation battle for BOTH." How do you do that? The National Chief repeated a message he began delivering shortly after he was elected. "We must move beyond the Indian Act and we must affirm our Crown – First Nation relationships. Right across the country, First Nations are forging new paths – whether it is through modern agreements like those in the Yukon, BC or Quebec, advancing Treaty clearly and effectively through the numbered Treaties or the work underway in areas of pre-confederation Treaties in Ontario and Atlantic. This is the work of moving beyond the Indian Act and building effective First Nations governments." Chiefs in Assembly will hold a planning session this week to prepare for the historic First Nations-Crown Gathering January 24th. "This gathering is for you the leadership to engage directly with the Prime Minister and with Canada. (we have set aside a special planning session tomorrow evening to pull together all of our ideas on setting out this agenda) As our ancestors did, we will begin with ceremony – we can call on the third party to our relationship – the Creator - and affirm our relationship.
Together First Nations and the Crown, we can identify our challenges, mark our progress; and, most importantly- we can develop a new agenda of future priorities TOGETHER. We can be successful, because we must be – our people, our children – our elders and our ancestors deserve it."

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National Chief Shawn A-in-chut Atleo
December 6, 2011
OPENING REMARKS
Special Chiefs Assembly 2011
Ottawa Convention Centre
Ottawa, ON

VIDEO:
http://download.isiglobal.ca/afn/2011-1 ... Atleo.html

[Greetings in language]

[Acknowledgements: Chiefs, Elders, etc.]

It is so good to see you all. Our winter assembly is an important time to reflect on the year coming to a close, to renew friendships and ties with each other, and to make plans for the coming year. We have the potential to make the most important gains for our people in health, education, and jobs that we have ever seen. We have more university graduates, more professionals and entrepreneurs among our young people than ever before. These are truly exciting possibilities. We WILL share in the benefits that flow from the resources on our lands, in more places, than ever in our history.

But we also know it remains a tragic, frustrating and even terrifying time. Too many of our women are “missing” and lost. Too many of our young people have fallen: from substance abuse, from despair, from suicide. Too many of our children sit each day in cold, mouldy classrooms, suffering from lingering illnesses bred by dirty drinking water and unsafe homes. Too many of our people live in homes and communities where they are not safe.

Canada saw for the first time last week what we see every day. What our people live with day in and day out. Some of our communities – too many of our peoples - live in appalling conditions. This is a national disgrace. And we have reason to feel angry and betrayed.

Far too many of our people are in prisons. And too many lead lives of quiet desperation on the streets of Canadian cities. Every one of those citizens needs our support.

Like the strong young man, I heard speak, from Wikwemikong in Ontario- overcoming a difficult upbringing in foster care that led to his substance abuse – he said with a voice of someone who has had to grow up way too quickly but has found a healthy place in his community and family – “we have to say enough is enough. And where do we start? With ourselves first. So we don’t pass on the hurt. ”. As I have heard many of our leaders say, we need to de-colonize our thinking, to bring healing to our homes and to say once and for all – the pain, the injustice stops here.

As leaders of our communities we must stand firm, with integrity and respect, for our right to economic benefits. At the same time, we accept our responsibility to lead the way rebuilding safer communities and paths back to lives of dignity and independence for all our people.

There are some who suggest that we must choose between our rights on the one hand, or economic development on the other. Or that we must choose either treaty implementation or program funding for our schools and healthcare systems.

This, in my view, suggests false choices, and has created divisions between and amongst us as First Nations.

There is only one struggle, there is one agenda, and one goal: to build a better life for all our people based on our rights, our identity and in fact our very survival. And we must use every tool that we have.

I, like you, have been there at the community level – confronting local bureaucrats for support for housing in the morning. Then battling for our resource rights against developers and politicians in the afternoon. During my years as a leader in BC, we fought together for strong agreements that recognize our rights on the use of our lands, our trees and our waters. We fought for secure funding for our children’s schools. And we fought for our rights in court. It is one battle. It is all part of the work we do and support today at the national level as well.

At the center, it is a fight for treaty and inherent rights and building effective First Nations governments. It’s also a pursuit for healthier, safer, more prosperous communities. Ensuring our people get the jobs and economic benefits when development of the resources occurs on our lands.

After all, how can a young person build a life as that skilled employee while trapped in a life of substance dependency? How can we build that strong local community government without the stable funding for its institutions? We need to WIN the treaty and rights implementation battle for BOTH.

How can we win this campaign for our young people? By refusing to accept false divisions, false choices: it is one battle with many fronts.

So - what connects all these threads? What is the one large obstacle to progress? What is the hangover of a paternalistic past that First Nations and Canadians agree must go? We all know the answer: it is failed colonial policies and approaches that plague us to this day. We must move beyond the Indian Act and we must affirm our Crown – First Nation relationships.

This nineteenth century relic continues to hold us back in delivering better lives for our peoples.

We do have new partners in this work. Canadians are increasingly aware of our issues, organizations and even corporate Canada is saying – that they recognize the absolute necessity of supporting First Nation potential given the aging Canadian demographic. We need to build this momentum – we need to educate ALL CANADIANS about our rights and our realities.

For example, as a result of our First Nations trade mission to China and dialogue with many embassies we are opening new opportunities for economic partnerships. Our partners understand when we say that sustainable development with First Nations will yield much greater mutual benefit. First Nations support development but this development must not come at a cost deemed too high by our peoples.

Right across the country, First Nations are forging new paths – whether it is through modern agreements like those in the Yukon, BC or Quebec, advancing Treaty clearly and effectively through the numbered Treaties or the work underway in areas of pre-confederation Treaties in Ontario and Atlantic. This is the work of moving beyond the Indian Act and building effective First Nations governments.

First Nations are driving change through advancing their own governments, building capacity and accountability through taking on greater responsibilities – this has been accomplished already in some areas and well underway in others.
We need to learn from one another, our challenges and our achievements. NO matter what region or what nature of relationship we are in – there is one clear requirement: the Crown - the federal government - must fulfill its full responsibilities to us, both as a Treaty partner and through modern agreements.
This is why all of you and those who have come before us have pressed so hard to re-set the relationship – to implement our rights confirmed in the Constitution, and in court cases. And, finally, a year ago through the Crown’s endorsement of the UN Declaration – this work got underway.

As it sets out - genuine reconciliation through mutual respect and partnership is the only way forward. And that’s also what the outgoing Auditor General said.
We’ve hosted 3 broad national planning forums and several others like the health and citizenship forums just last month – to bring First Nation voices together.

Through our Assemblies these past two years, a new consensus, new energy and urgency are apparent. Perhaps the most vivid example has been the very important work to bring together a national Treaty strategy. As mandated at our Assembly in 2010 – this work has included Treaty roundtables and close work with the Treaties 1-11 movement. I want to thank the incredibly powerful leadership from this movement for their work and their drive to push this forward. This work is now so very timely as we prepare for key next steps.
Now let me be clear, we all know that there is so much work ahead of us. That Indian Act bureaucracy and rules stand in our way and punish our people. Policies like Ottawa’s “Comprehensive Land Claims Policy” and their interpretation of “Inherent Right Policy” have not kept up with the decisions of Canada’s higher courts and important international agreements such as the UN Declaration. And even if we could come to agreement on the legal front, you all know well that your First Nations still struggle FOR fiscal fairness and FOR adequate revenue.
This all speaks loudly to the need for clear commitment for direct engagement with First Nations to improve negotiations and to deliver swift and fair resolution to our land rights.

By achieving true mutual recognition and respect we can transform the relationships between First Nations and Canada to one that is transparent, accountable and delivers significant new benefits to our peoples and to all Canadians. We need to keep building that momentum. In every region of this country, from cities, to small towns to our most remote communities.

Spending time with people within your territories has always been my priority: connecting with and listening to our First Nations peoples directly where they live; then taking THAT message to open the doors to fairness, to awareness and ultimately to resolution driven by each First Nation themselves through the halls of Parliament and government.

So we have pressed Canada to commit to work with First Nations, guided by the principles that recognize and affirm our inherent and Treaty rights and not in a manner that is pan Aboriginal, pre-determined or a closed door agenda - set by Government.

Yes we are absolutely wary of the reality of broken promises, reasons for mistrust, and the many, many reports and attempts already made – major efforts like the Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples, the Kelowna Accord – all of this is important and instructive. All of this has helped suggest what is needed. NOW – this is OUR moment - we need to drive the solution forward ourselves.

Canada has now committed to a First Nations-Crown Gathering.

As indicated in his letter that we shared exactly one year ago at our Assembly, the Prime Minister signaled a willingness to work towards a Gathering that has now been confirmed for January 24th.

This commitment is a direct link to the Residential Schools Apology and builds on Canada’s endorsement of the UN Declaration. It is critical, that at this moment we say to Canada – this is about all of us. This is about all First Nations, it is about all Parliamentarians and it is about all of Canada. We will encourage this to become an ALL PARTY movement avoiding blaming, finger pointing and certainly not using the plight of our people to score political points. We need the energy, ideas and most importantly the commitment of all parties to achieve this change NOW.

This may be the moment of reckoning….

Our job at AFN, on your instruction, has been to open doors and encourage a willing Crown partner to come to the table.

This gathering is for you the leadership to engage directly with the Prime Minister and with Canada. (we have set aside a special planning session tomorrow evening to pull together all of our ideas on setting out this agenda) As our ancestors did, we will begin with ceremony – we can call on the third party to our relationship – the Creator - and affirm our relationship. Together First Nations and the Crown, we can identify our challenges, mark our progress; and, most importantly- we can develop a new agenda of future priorities TOGETHER.

We can be successful, because we must be – our people, our children – our elders and our ancestors deserve it.

First Nations leaders have come together, over the past two years, on delivering this work. We are diverse peoples, so there is not and cannot be only one path. But, we all share this: it is our journey together and we share a clear destination. The path forward leads to confirmation of our rightful place in our lands and territories. The completion of our journey together is the creation of lives, opportunities, and communities that cherish our children and guarantees them a better future.

The path forward calls us all to work to strengthen the Crown-First Nations relationship. It means accelerating the implementation of Treaty rights, and improving our ability to negotiate and implement our successes.

That is the focus I hear coming from Treaty Nine territory – from Grand Chief Stan Loutitt and as we stand with Chief Theresa Spence as the story of her community has unfolded in front of the whole nation. When I spoke with Chief Spence and leadership across the north we discussed the urgent needs but also that the way forward is based on respectful treaty implementation and an equitable share of resources from their land NOT imposed punitive unilateral action.

While her community finds themselves facing deep challenges, it doesn’t surprise me that Chief Spence and her people are at the very same time concerned about other First Nations in the same situation. This is who we are – we are Indigenous brothers and sisters with strong teachings of family and support for one another. We are, after all, in this together.

There is one more voice – a voice that has been lost this past week that I want to bring back - And that is the late Shannen Koostachin. Attawapiskat was her home. Those of you who were in Moncton this last summer will remember our youth council recognized Shannen as the first recipient of the Youth Advocacy Award. Shannen’s parents, Andrew and Jenny joined us to accept the award on her behalf.

Shannen understood the need for bold, decisive action to win good schools. I recall so clearly the day when I stood listening to her on the steps of Parliament Hill as she spoke clearly, intelligently with conviction and with great wisdom beyond her tender years.

She was only 13 but she already understood the need for a curriculum based on our culture and our stories. She knew that a cold mouldy classroom was never going to prepare them for success in the modern world. Shannen and her peers are the inspiration behind our work today on education - the need to break out of the strait-jackets of the past. The obligation we owe to our ancestors and our elders, survivors of the Residential School era, to build a better system for our children and grandchildren.

And I am confident that we are on the right path.

The National Panel will report early in the New Year and, together with other reports, we will have new awareness across Canada to move this forward. But then the hard work begins, turning Shannen’s Dream into funded, stable, decent schools for all our children.

I am SO honoured to have been entrusted with this work. In dozens of meetings and conversations, since the election two and half years ago, I have worked to make clear my unwavering commitment to you the leaders to support you and to push this work towards success.

You are the rights holders and the decision-makers. My job as National Chief and that of the National Executive is to stand shoulder to shoulder with you – to advance our shared agenda on the national and international stage. It is not and cannot be about me developing top-down solutions or having backroom discussions to cut a deal on your behalf. That after all is the very pattern of the government behaviour that we must break. Our job is listening, facilitating, supporting and communicating. And, make no mistake - we will leave no stone unturned, we will be un-relenting in supporting First Nation change to happen – and this means opening the doors and then getting out of the way for each of you to achieve, through your nation-to nation relationship, the change your people desire. That’s the leadership role we must play.

While acknowledging our diversity, the great value that our founders knew when they created the Assembly over 40 years ago – is our great strength derived through sharing and supporting one another. Together we will help implement the changes that build a better life for all our people.

We must stand strong, against fear-mongering and against those who would incite division. These tired old tactics have been used against us since the days of our ancestors. We cannot deliver the changes our peoples expect if we are fighting one another.

When we stand tall together, and lead, we will build those new communities, those new opportunities – based on our rights and our responsibilities – and our children will see a new dawn!

Our people demand that we seize every opportunity, that we face our fears and demonstrate the courage to turn each one to their benefit. We don’t create opportunities without considering the risks. We know the possibilities for treachery and for disappointment.

Did our Elders and Ancestors achieve great victories by never seizing a risky new possibility? Did they fight courageously against enormous odds by running away, by refusing to come to the table?! In fact, when they won it was because of their clear strategy, their insight and determination.

We honour their achievements by following their proud example.

Like them, we will never compromise our rights, our principles or our people for an agreement. You know that, I know that. Leadership requires that we stand firmly, with integrity, and seize every opportunity that offers the possibility to improve the lives of our peoples.

Let me end where I began: we have but one agenda – to fight every day to improve the lives and opportunities for our people. That means realizing the faithful implementation of our rights, it means ensuring that no government is allowed to forget their true meaning, their true history and the responsibilities they confer on each of us in a true relationship.

We have the courage and confidence to create change, change grounded in our rights, guided by the voices of our people, and by the vision of our Elders.
And to the Crown we say: Do not ever believe that this National Chief, or any future National Chief, will ever quit or ever compromise Treaty or inherent rights. No First Nations leader will ever take one step away from insisting on the rights as the foundation of our relationship.

Implemented fully, they are the foundation of our renewed relationship. We extend our hand, just as our ancestors did, and say: work with us. We are all partners in this together… and we are all here to stay.

As we are gathered here on the eve of the 200th anniversary of the War of 1812, we are reminded that our ancestors shed blood and died, fighting shoulder to shoulder -not as subjects but as allies- for our rights and those of the Treaty partner. To our courageous and proud veterans, we are eternally grateful.
I know that just as we are gathered here, together so too have our ancestors gathered… with their eyes on us and their vision inspiring us. The memory of their struggles is a fire that burns within us even now.

The eyes of our children are also on us. Many Canadians have seen those eyes for the first time this last week – brought into their living rooms. They plead with us to build them a better future. We cannot, we must not, we will not let them down.

As I said, I am thankful for being invited into your homes and villages – it is the moments spent with the elders and the children that touch me most deeply. These moments fortify and reinforce my belief that no matter the difficulty – no matter the obstacles, or seemingly impossible the challenges … we must together take this on – and never, never, NEVER quit or accept that the challenge is just too hard. There is after all a hard way or a harder way – there is no easy way. I know we can do this – we can do the hard work required by supporting one another.

This is my pledge to you: together, united and standing proudly under the gaze of our Ancestors, we will build a better future for every First Nations man, woman and child.

This pledge, this commitment, is our peoples’ right and expectation of us. It is the test of our responsibility to them and to the memory of those, on whose shoulders, we are privileged to stand.

It is a pledge that says It’s Our Time – and by this we mean that the pain and the suffering ends right here; right now - THIS generation. Together, we can close the chapter of a dark period of our history and turn the page to write a new chapter filled with hope and promise for our children and their children to come.
Kleco, Kleco!

[admin]

E M E R G E N C Y D R A F T R E S O L U T I O N # 0 0 / 2 0 1 1

AFN Special Chiefs Assembly, December 6 – 8, 2011, Ottawa, Ontario

TITLE: Call for Fundamental Structural Change to Support all First Nation communities in crisis

SUBJECT: Emergency and Long-Term Support for First Nation Communities

MOVED BY: Chief Bob Chamberlain, Kwikwasut’inuxw Haxw’mis, BC

SECONDED BY: Chief Dean Sayers, Ojibways of Batchewana First Nation, ON

WHEREAS:

A.The community of Attawapiskat has a Treaty relationship with the Crown. Canada has no mechanism to implement the Treaty and has reduced this to a financial matter.

B.The community of Attawapiskat has had long standing challenges with regards to community infrastructure, housing, and education and has not received attention or support from the Government of Canada.

C.On October 28, 2011, the Mushkegowuk Council declared a state of emergency as temperatures were dropping to dangerous levels and many Attawapiskat citizens were without housing and living in crowded conditions in temporary shelters or substandard structures.

D.The situation in Attawapiskat has since garnered significant media attention and prominence in the House of Commons.

E.In response to these issues, the Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development has placed Attawapiskat under third party management, which effectively removes control of finances and decision-making from the elected leadership.

F.The situation in Attawapiskat is a national tragedy but is not unique. Too many First Nations have similar living conditions and face quality of life challenges on a daily basis.

G.On December 1, 2011, the Prime Minister agreed to hold a Crown-First Nations gathering on January 24, 2012. This gathering represents an opportunity ‘to re-set the relationship’ on the basis of Treaty and inherent rights and begin the work of fundamental structural change required to advance our economies and the respect and dignity of all of our peoples.

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Chiefs-in-Assembly:

1.Fully support the leadership and citizens of Attawapiskat First Nation in their efforts to address the emergency needs of their people including ensuring adequate housing and health supports.

2.Extend full support to all First Nations that are facing problems with the living conditions in their communities and commit to reach out to all sectors of Canadian society to respond to these needs and to take all political action necessary to achieve change for First Nation communities and their citizens.

3.Instruct the Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development and the federal Cabinet to work with the Chief and Council of Attawapiskat to address immediate needs and to begin the work of creating sustainable joint solutions for the future as opposed to unilateral actions, such as the imposition of third party management without involving the community, that undermine the authority of Chief and Council.

4.Demand that the Government of Canada take urgent and sustained action to work with all First Nations, especially those facing emergency situations lacking basic supports, to ensure they have the tools and investments necessary to address infrastructure challenges, including safe and adequate housing, clean drinking water, medical and health supports and education that respect their economic sovereignty

5.Clearly assert that any new action to address these urgent situations does not take away from exisisting, inadequate resources.

6.Instruct the AFN to request the United Nations Economic and Social Council and Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues appoint a Special Rapporteur to monitor Canada’s actions in this area and to hold Canada to its responsibilities under the Treaties with First Nations and additional international treaties and covenants.

[admin]

Turtle Island Native Network
http://www.turtleisland.org

December 7th, 2011
The following resolution was passed today by consensus
by the Chiefs In Assembly at their Special Assembly in Ottawa.

TITLE:First Nations Right to Travel Freely

Subject: Border Crossing and Citizenship Identification

Moved by: Chief Dean Sayers, Batchewana First Nation, ON

Seconded by: Grand Chief Mike Mitchell, Mohawk Council of Akwesasne, ON

WHEREAS:
A. Indigenous peoples have the right to the lands, territories and resources which they have traditionally owned, occupied or otherwise used or acquired (UNDRIP Article 26:1) and; Indigenous peoples have the right to own, use, develop and control the lands, territories and resources that they posses by reason of traditional ownership or other traditional occupation or use, as well as those which they have otherwise acquired(Article 26:2) and; States shall give legal recognition and protection to these lands, territories and resources. Such recognition shall be conducted with due respect to the customs, traditions and land tenure systems of the indigenous peoples concerned (Article 26:3).

B. First Nations have inherent and unextinguished jurisdiction to travel freely, across our traditional land known as Turtle Island without harassment.

C. Article III of the Jay Treaty of 1794 states: “It is agreed that it shall at all times be free to His Majesty’s subjects and to the Citizens of the United States. And also to the Indians dwelling on with side of the said boundary line freely to pass and repass by Land or Inland Navigation, in the respective Territories and Countries of the Two Parties on the Continent of America (the country within the Hudson’s bay company only excepted) And to navigate all the Lakes, Rivers and waters thereof, and freely to carry on trade and commerce with each other…”.

D. First Nations and what is now Canada maintain a Nation-to-Nation relationship, based on historic treaties and agreements.

E. The United States Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) requirements for border crossing by land and water have no authority on First Nations.

F. Protection of the Canada/United States of America border is a shared responsibility and it is our intention to be involved in a positive way.

G. It is the intent of our respective First Nations across Canada to proceed with the creation of an enhanced identification card for entrance to the United States that honour our nationhood and is compliant with the highest security standard.

H. First Nations reserve the right to create, circulate, and maintain said identification cards.

I. First Nations must be directly involved in the protection of our territories (now recognized by Canada and the United States) for the security of our Nation’s lands and peoples.

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Chiefs-in-Assembly:

1. Reaffirm our sovereignty as Nations as reflected in our treaty relationships with the Crown and our responsibility to protect the resources of First Nation lands and the rights of our citizens.

2. Recognize the jurisdiction and sovereignty of each distinct Nation to develop, create, and circulate their identification cards which accurately reflect the needs of their respective Nations.

[admin]

Turtle Island Native Network
http://www.turtleisland.org

"State of Crisis Regarding Substance Abuse"
Drugs that are prevalent among our young people is killing our future!

December 7th, 2011 -

"When our elders homes are getting broken into. When grandmothers are threatened and robbed. . .you know there's a problem."

akwesasne.gif (34.43 KiB) Viewed 1927 times

Grand Chief Michael Kanentakeron Mitchell was addressing the Special Chiefs Assembly in Ottawa where First Nations leaders approved the resolution the Grand Chief put forward to help deal with the drug crisis in his Mohawk community of Akwesasne.

You could hear the concern in his voice, as he told the chiefs how frustrating it has been to try to get help from the federal government. "When we report that sickness - ask for help, and Health Canada says well we have to do an assessment, we have to come in and make sure you come in between the hours of eight o'clock to five o'clock. I don't think drugs know a time frame," said Mitchell.

The Akwesasne Grand Chief says leaders asked to have their traditional healers, ceremonial people become part of the healing process but government official told them "they're not certified, they're not up to the standards for this kind of work".

Despite that, the traditional people went ahead with their healing anyway. "Three weeks later the people who are the patients have come before leadership at a council meeting - recovered!"

He said that's a much better option than sending them on a voluntary basis to a detox place where they could have left, and in the past they have left.

"So the programs that came out of this are the programs that the community put together. Yes, they're not licensed, yes they're not recognized. But a lot of our ceremonies that we grew up with are recognized by us. They work!"

In speaking on behalf of his resolution the Grand Chief appealed to the chiefs, "Let's recognize each other. . .Across this country there are other tribes other nations. . .I know you have ceremonies too. I know we incorporate sweat lodge ceremonies, prayers, songs - healing practices
that are distinctly our own; And this is what we want to incorporate into our traditional healing.

Drugs that are prevalent among our young people is killing our future!
"That's why we wanted to speak out and do something about it, and with the assistance of other leaders, other nations work collaboratively together and recognize the symptoms and how it must be dealt with, and that many times its up to us to stop it."

RESOLUTION
AFN Special Chiefs Assembly, December 6 – 8, 2011, Ottawa, Ontario

TITLE: Support for Akwesasne Leadership in Addressing State of Crisis Regarding Substance Abuse

SUBJECT: Health / Substance Abuse Prevention

MOVED BY:
Grand Chief Michael Kanentakeron Mitchell, Akwesasne Mohawk Nation, ON

SECONDED BY:
Chief Bill Montour, Six Nations of Grand River, ON

WHEREAS:

A.Akwesasne is a multi-jurisdictional community separated by the international and political borders of the United States, Canada, New York State, and the Provinces of Ontario and Quebec.

B.The issue of drug abuse in Akwesasne is exacerbated by the multi-jurisdictional nature of the community of Akwesasne.

C.The drug-abuse culture has become an affliction for our youth at unprecedented levels.

D.The lack of drug-abuse treatment facilities in the immediate and surrounding area prevents the afflicted from seeking and obtaining immediate treatment for themselves or family members for crisis intervention, after care and family support.

E.Drug addiction and chemical dependency has been proven to lead to the emotional and physical abuse of family members, especially of children and elders.

F.Communities with higher than average percentages of drug addiction and chemical dependency have higher incidences of suicide, violent crimes, illegal activity and other forms of abuse.

G.The communities of Akwesasne and Six Nations are two of many First Nations that are experiencing rapidly growing drug-abuse and chemical dependency in the youth population.

H.First Nations traditional medicine practitioners, who utilize a mind, body and spirit approach in treatment, maintenance and counseling, are not recognized or funded due to concern for such practitioners being non-certification/license to practice.

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Chiefs-in-Assembly:

1.Fully support the efforts of Akwesasne leadership and their declaration of a state of crisis for the Community of Akwesasne due to its rapidly growing rate of drug abuse and chemical dependency.

2.Urge Federal, Provincial and local governments to support Akwesasne by recognizing culturally-based, wholistic healing approaches.

3.Direct the Assembly of First Nations to advocate for funding to address the substance abuse problem.

4.Urge Federal and Provincial governments to identify funds to resource adequate community-based programming and services.

5.Recognize the urgency of the drug abuse issue in Akwesasne and support actions of Akwesasne leadership to address this issue head-on, with or without government assistance.

6.Support communities in the work they are doing while respecting diversified needs.

7.Direct the AFN to work in partnership with Health Canada to recognize our First Nations traditional practitioners, traditional healers, and ceremonial elders.

8.Support the development of a comprehensive national mental wellness system for First Nations that ensures a continuum of care across all services.

[admin]

MOHAWKS OF AKWESASNE
'REKINDLE' TRADE ARRANGEMENT WITH HURON-WENDAT NATION


(from left) Huron-Wendat Nation of Wendake Grand Chief Konrad Haskan Sioui, Assembly of First Nations National Chief Shawn Atleo and Mohawk Council of Akwesasne Grand Chief Mike Kanentakeron Mitchell traded sweetgrass and posed with the Akwesasne Wolf Belt following a signing ceremony on a trade agreement between the Mohawks and Huron.

Tsiothohrha / December 8, 2011

AKWESASNE MOHAWK TERRITORY- The Mohawk Council of Akwesasne has taken an important step towards reestablishing ancestral trade networks with other First Nations. In a ceremony conducted during the Assembly of First Nation’s Special Chiefs Assembly held in Ottawa, Ontario on Wednesday, December 6, 2011, MCA Grand Chief Mike Kanentakeron Mitchell rekindled one First Nations trade arrangement by signing a Nation-to-Nation Trade and Commerce Protocol with Huron-Wendat Nation of Wendake Grand Chief Konrad Haskan Sioui.

According to Grand Chief Mitchell, “The Mohawks of Akwesasne and Huron have a long history of sharing the region’s land and resources before the arrival of Europeans to Turtle Island.” He added, “The ancient tradition of free trade amongst First Nations has continued despite the imposition of a border between the colonial governments of the United States and Canada.”

The nation-to-nation agreement has been under consideration for the past few years, but gained momentum in October 2010 when Mohawk Council traveled to Wendake to discuss steps towards revitalizing the trade arrangement. It was an opportunity to recall traditional trade and commerce relationships that previously existed between the Mohawks of Akwesasne and the Huron-Wendat Nation.


(seated) Huron-Wendat Nation of Wendake Grand Chief Konrad Haskan Sioui and Mohawk Council of Akwesasne Grand Chief Mike Kanentakeron Mitchell signed a trade agreement, as MCA District Chiefs Brian David, Rachel Roundpoint, Karen Loran and Wesley Benedict look on.

The signed trade agreement recognizes that both First Nations are descendants of a people known as the Laurentian Iroquois, whom originally inhabited the St. Lawrence Valley. Together, the Mohawks of Akwesasne and the Huron-Wendat Nation share this heritage and have created a legacy of respect and collaboration that both First Nations wish to continue.

The document also recognizes that trade has been an integral part of our culture and is vital to our continued distinction as First Nations, which has supported discussions on the trade protocol’s development. Its development was further supported by Canada’s endorsement in November 2010 of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples that recognizes and protects the practices of traditional economies.

The Mohawk Council intends to use the trade agreement with the Huron-Wendat Nation, as well as those that it hopes to foster with other First Nations, to develop a secure and self-sufficient economy for the Akwesasne community. The MCA recognizes the benefit of sharing resources and experiences to improve our community’s economic and social conditions.

The next step for MCA is to establish a technical team to work in cooperation with the Huron-Wendat to share resources and identify economic development initiatives that will utilize the trade arrangement to create strong economies for both First Nations communities.