Anishinabek Nation Political Update – May 2017

Aaniin,

As you are aware, the Anishinabek Nation strives to ensure that regional Chiefs meetings occur twice annually in addition to Grand Council.  These meetings afford an opportunity for issues, often community or regional-specific, for discussion and direct advocacy, research, or support/assistance. This is also an opportunity to communicate current issues, challenges and opportunities.  I am pleased that we were able to facilitate all four regional meetings leading up the Grand Council.

The Anishinabek Nation advocated to the Chiefs of Ontario to host a Special Chiefs Assembly specific to infrastructure.  First Nations are struggling to maintain decent operations of many of their infrastructure assets or even ensuring there mitigation plans, whether it is related to a Water Treatment Plant upgrade, Operations and Maintenance shortfalls, Housing stock, Fire Services and many other critical items.  There was a definite need for leadership to come together and focus on these matters with input on how to move forward.  I was pleased to see many of the Anishinabek Nation Chiefs and their technicians in attendance and throughout the many presentations made and discussions that ensured, it appears that the Anishinabek Nation, thanks mainly to the visionary leadership we have, are leading the way on many issues with innovation and change.

As usually occurs, we take advantage of our locale and arrange for other advocacy work.  A meeting between the Anishinabek Nation and Health Canada was significantly encouraging and Chief Bressette will present on this item next week at Grand Council.

While in Ottawa, I had the pleasure, to accompany the Beausoleil Youth Council to a luncheon provided by National Chief Bellegarde for them as well as attend a meet and greet with government senior staff.  The theme for the Youth Council for this trip to the Nation’s Capital was seeking responses from federal departments on their reconciliation efforts.  I commend these young people in their determination to make a difference.

Yes, May was a very busing month as work is underway to prepare for Grand Council.  I appreciate you taking the time to review the draft agenda sent to you and making suggestions for topics that you feel need to be highlighted – your input in crucial in ensuring that Grand Council  plans capture the issues that are of importance to you.

Chi’Miigwech.

Grand Council Chief Patrick Wedaseh Madahbee

Deputy Grand Council Chief Glen Hare

In addition to the above, Deputy Hare has supported all planned community information sessions associated with the Anishinabek Education System and the Band Council Resolution-seeking process for the Master Education Agreement, which occurred weekly throughout the territory.   He also attended AN Child Well-Being Conference and schools that have hosted a number of events highlighting reconciliation and socials/pow wows.

*Note:  the above schedule does not reflect the numerous conference calls that occurred throughout May nor the many “side meetings”.