Tuesday, December 6, 2011

First Nations from Across Canada Gather in Ottawa for AFN Special Chiefs Assembly

OTTAWA, Dec. 2, 2011- First Nation leaders from across Canada will beging gathering in Ottawa today, December 6-8, 2011 for the Assembly of First Nations (AFN) Special Chiefs Assembly. Under the theme "Realizing our Rights: Unlocking our Economies", hundreds of First Nation Chiefs, youth and Elders from across the country will meet to engage on strategy and action to address the priorities facing First Nation citizens and communities.

AFN National Chief Shawn A-in-chut Atleo will deliver opening remarks to the Assembly this (Tuesday) morning. His address to Chiefs will focus on achieving real change required for First Nation communities across Canada, specifically in light of the current Attawapiskat crisis. The Assembly follows the December 1st announcement by National Chief Atleo and Prime Minister Stephen Harper to host the first-ever Crown-First Nation Gathering January 24, 2012 - something First Nation leaders called for last year and Prime Minister Harper committed to last December.

Other highlights of the Assembly include a Parliamentary Reception for Assembly delegates, Chiefs, Members of Parliament and international representatives. A full agenda of the AFN Annual General Assembly is available at www.afn.ca.