Anishinabek Nation planning for the future

By Kirk Titmuss

TORONTO—The Anishinabek Nation Chiefs Committee on Governance met in Toronto on January 9, and received a progress report on the Long-Term Strategic Plan being prepared by BDO Canada LLP with input from the 40 member First Nations of the Anishinabek Nation. The plan will help identify and support the long-term strategic priorities of all First Nations part of the Anishinabek Nation Governance Agreement (ANGA).

The ANGA, which has been in development since 1995, recognizes First Nations’ law-making powers in the areas of elections, language and culture, citizenship and financial management powers. Presentations to Chiefs and Councils explaining the agreement and what it means for the future of First Nations are taking place across Anishinabek territory. Anishinabek First Nations are being asked to consider passing band council resolutions, which will authorize a ratification vote on the ANGA between August and November of this year.

Chiefs’ Committee on Governance Chair, Anishinabek Nation Grand Council Chief Glen Hare, says he is excited about the development of the Long-Term Strategic Plan. He says he is often asked about the First Nations’ vision and future goals and especially what the plan will mean for citizens in areas like health, housing, education, infrastructure and employment.

“We want to see progress; we want to see strength and our kids, too. I hear kids out there in our communities, they’ve graduated but they’re looking for work. They said ‘We want to be part of not only Ontario, but our communities—we want to make it strong’. When I hear that from our citizens, our kids, let’s open the doors for them. Let’s stand with them, support them. My whole career, I had opportunities, I was given a lot of those opportunities and I really convey that to the leadership — give everybody opportunities.”

Some of the feedback Grand Chief Hare has received also includes preserving Anishinaabemowin and Anishinaabe culture.

Individual First Nation profiles are being compiled by BDO, and also examining the prioritized issues as expressed by each respective First Nation.

Derek Rice, BDO’s Economic Development National Lead, says he has noted the differing pressing targets and requirements necessary to achieve long-term goals for each Anishinabek First Nation as expressed by their respective Chief. He adds that the varying geographies and priorities make developing the strategic plan a challenging process.

“There are definite complexities due to sizes of regions, different needs, and different levels of economic development. What we heard were the needs of individual communities. We want to know what will need to be implemented at a regional level.”

Despite the challenges, Grand Chief Hare says he is optimistic about the future of First Nations and the Anishinabek Nation as the strategic plan and Governance Agreement work their way to completion.

“We always have to think positive. Always be positive. There are always options. Never give up.”