Youth elect interim representatives

By Marci Becking

NIPISSING FN – Youth held a traditional election today at the Eshkeniijig (Youth) Engagement at Beaucage Park.

Nathalie Restoule from Dokis  and Quinn Meawasige from Serpent River  are the two new interim youth reps, replacing G’Mewin Miigwans of M’Chigeeng  and Arnold Yellowman of Aamjiwnaang.

Grand Council Chief Patrick Madahbee said that as the two new youth leaders were raised up, two eagles flew over the circle where the youth gathered to hold the traditional stand-up election.

“All of you have leadership qualities, great ideas and vision,” said the Grand Council Chief to the youth.  “Your ancestors and today’s leadership have worked very hard to make the trail, and now you’re going to bust that trail open.”

Madahbee also said that he was proud of the youth for keeping Aboriginal Affairs Minister David Zimmer on his toes.

“We asked him some tough questions at the bi-lateral meeting, but you asked the tougher questions and that’s great work,” he said.