Anishinabek mourn passing of Musqueam Chief Ernie Campbell

UOI OFFICES (Nipissing FN) October 29, 2013 – Anishinabek Nation leaders are paying tribute to former Chief of the Musqueam Indian Band, Ernie Campbell who has passed into the Spirit World.

“Ernie was a good friend,” says Grand Council Chief Patrick Madahbee.  “He was a passionate, hard working leader locally, regionally and nationally.  He was a tireless worker for First Nations.”

Ernie Campbell was a survivor of St. Paul’s Residential School.  He served as the Chief of Musqueam for over 20 years, first elected as Chief for three two-year terms in the 1980s.  He was returned as Chief in 1999 and held that position for 13 years until his retirement in 2012. He served as Chairman of the Musqueam Fisheries Commission and was extensively involved in all aspects of the Musqueam Band business. Musqueam is the only First Nation situated within the municipal boundaries of the city of Vancouver.

Chief Campbell oversaw Musqueam’s participation in the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics, which generated economic, social and cultural benefits.  He was also a signatory to the 2008 Reconciliation, Settlement and Benefits Agreement with the Province of British Columbia, ensuring legal rights to consultation and accommodation for his people regarding their traditional lands.