Grand Chief reflects on Pope’s apology following Vatican visit
A historic week of meetings with Indigenous leaders from across Canada culminated with Pope Francis expressing his “sorrow and shame” for the “deplorable” abuses at residential schools.
Politics
ᐊ ᓃᑳᓂᔅᑭᑭᓂᐧᐃᒡ ᐊᐱᑎᓰᐧᐃᓐ
Leaders reflect on the history and future of the Paix des Braves agreement
Cree Nation leaders could have been forgiven for thinking the Quebec and Canadian governments would finally respect Cree sovereignty when the three parties signed the James Bay and Northern Quebec Agreement (JBNQA) nearly 50 years ago.
Various education initiatives in Quebec aim for success in Indigenous communities
In the wake of the Grand Economic Circle of Indigenous People and Quebec, the provincial government announced multiple funding initiatives November 26 to address significant gaps in Indigenous education, which studies have shown is closely correlated with family income and health outcomes.
Federal government sets aside $40 billion for child welfare compensation
As talks continue to settle compensation claims, the Canadian government has set aside $40 billion for First Nations child welfare in its latest economic update.
Protests erupt in support of Wet’suwet’en land defenders
Responding to a 2019 British Columbia Supreme Court injunction, RCMP officers have arrested over 30 Wet’suwet’en community members, supporters and even journalists in BC in the past few weeks. This action has led to protests across the country in support of the Wet’suwet’en and their efforts to block a fossil-fuel pipeline from entering their territory.
Waswanipi hosts historic inauguration for Grand Chief Mandy Gull-Masty
It was no coincidence that the historic inauguration ceremony for Grand Chief Mandy Gull-Masty was held on November 11, the 46th anniversary of the James Bay Northern Quebec Agreement (JBNQA). This “first modern treaty” was a frequent reference point throughout the prestigious event, proudly held in the Grand Chief’s home community of Waswanipi.
Montreal Native Women’s Shelter cuts ties with Batshaw
The Native Women’s Shelter of Montreal (NWSM) has suspended its partnership with an advisory committee involved in improving the city’s youth protection services for Indigenous children after continued inaction to address systemic racism at Batshaw Youth and Family Centre.
Leaders look for change at virtual AGA 2021
While many were disappointed that pandemic precautions prevented the planned gathering in Waskaganish, Cree leaders believe this year’s virtual Annual General Assembly (AGA) September 1-2 represented significant progress for the Cree Nation on several issues.
Federal Election Coverage
Electors across Canada will have the chance to vote for their Member of Parliament in the September 20 federal election. In Abitibi–Baie-James–Nunavik–Eeyou, there are five declared candidates from the major parties, with Sylvie Bérubé of the Bloc Québécois running for re-election.
Quebec premier visits Mistissini to meet new Grand Chief
Quebec Premier François Legault and Indigenous Affairs Minister Ian Lafrenière met with newly elected Grand Chief Mandy Gull-Masty and Deputy Chief Norman Wapachee in Mistissini August 16, the first meeting between the new administration of the Cree Nation Government and the Quebec government.