The Prime Minister Justin Trudeau set the tone for the AFN Chiefs Special Assembly in Gatineau, Quebec. December 8, 2015
In his speech Justin Trudeau highlighted several points and promised “Real Change” in approaching the relationship with FN peoples. He mentioned a renewed “Nation to Nation” relationship with First Nations Peoples and and recognizes and honours the spirit and Intent of the Original Treaties. The Prime Minister also announced 5 commitments from the Government of Canada.
Priority
#1. start the Inquiry on “Missing and Murdered Indigenous Woman and Girls.
# 2. First Nations Education
# 3. To lift the 2% cap on First Nations Funding
# 4. To fully implement the “Calls to Act” of the TRC Commission, starting with the implementation of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.
# 5. Conduct a “Full Review” of the legislations unilaterally imposed on Indigenous Peoples by the Previous Government.
The chiefs in assembly were very pleased with the announcements and very optimistic with the future of First Nations peoples. Other Announcements included
– The RCMP Commissioner Bob Paulson admits to racism among his ranks, and the RCMP will be assisting in the MMIW inquiry.
– The Minister of Indigenous and Norther Affairs, Dr Carolyn Bennett did a closing address to the Assembly, in her speech she promotes “Nation to Nation, Government to Government , these have to be relationships built on trust, respect and understanding…” Say’s Bennett. The AFN Chiefs Special Assembly was a historic event, full of promise, optimism and hope.
‘Our Voices Have Been Heard’
