Anishinabek Nation brings connectivity to the forefront of annual Lands, Resources and Economic Development Forum

February 16, 2021
Anishinabek Nation Grand Council Chief Glen Hare on Day 1 of the 2021 Lands, Resources and Economic Development Forum: Kina-Gego-Naabadosin: Everything is Connected.

ANISHINABEK NATION HEAD OFFICE (February 16, 2021) – For the fifth year, Anishinabek Nation Grand Council Chief Glen Hare welcomes member Anishinabek Nation First Nations and citizens, government, industry and academia to the 2021 Lands, Resources and Economic Development Forum: Kina-Gego-Naabadosin: Everything is Connected.

“Over the past four years, we have seen how all of us – our environment, our resources, our First Nations, and economies – are connected. The theme of this year’s Forum is relevant now more than ever; despite the past year’s challenges and need to stay apart, we continue to be connected, from Nation to Nation, whether our citizens are on or off-reserve,” says Anishinabek Nation Grand Council Chief Glen Hare. “We need to make sure our communities remain connected in safe ways, to support one another as well.”

The event brings together 39 member Anishinabek First Nations, representing over 65,000 citizens from the Lake Huron, Northern Superior, and Southeast and Southwest regions in Ontario.

Due to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, the typical three-day in-person event will be hosted virtually from February 16 to 18, and will focus on treaty rights and consultation as they affect the connectivity of First Nations. The Forum’s continued theme, “Kina-Gego-Naabadosin: Everything is Connected,” is reflected in the use of an online platform to be able to connect people to share knowledge, experiences and teachings, during a time when there is limited physical contact.

The Forum opened with the Anishinabek Nation Leadership panel and discussion, followed by a plenary session of First Nation Elders sharing their experiences, challenges and insights related to their communities and regions.

Throughout the Forum, participants will take part in presentations and discussions from representatives from a number of ministries, including the Ministry of the Environment and Climate Change, Indigenous Services of Canada, and the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs.

The final day of the Forum includes an Anishinabek Nation Caucus, creating opportunities for member First Nations to discuss and reflect on their time together.

“Over the coming days, we will discuss the ongoing issues surrounding our environment and the rapidly evolving socioeconomic landscape,” adds Grand Council Chief Hare. “I am looking forward to hearing your unique perspectives on how we can address these issues while we continue to monitor the ongoing global health crisis.”

Relevant links: