National Chief Shawn A-in-chut Atleo Offers Condolences on the Passing of Chief Ralph Akiwenzie

March 7, 2010
 
National Chief Shawn A-in-chut Atleo Offers Condolences on the Passing of Chief Ralph Akiwenzie of Chippewas of Nawash  
 
Assembly of First Nations National Chief Shawn A-in-chut Atleo today expressed his condolences to the friends and family of Chief Ralph Akiwenzie and the citizens of the Chippewas of Nawash.

The National Chief stated: “On behalf of the Assembly of First Nations and the national executive, I offer our deepest condolences to the family of Chief Ralph Akiwenzie and the Chippewas of Nawash Unceded First Nation, sometimes referred to as Cape Croker. Our thoughts are with you as you commemorate the life of a great leader.
 
Chief Akiwenzie was, among many other talents, an educator. He had a clear vision of hope for our young people.  An active participant regionally and nationally, Chief Akiwenzie demonstrated the very best qualities of leadership, always being on top of every issue, carefully reviewing every document and speaking eloquently of the rights and interests of his people.  He served his people for many years and enjoyed strong support from the citizens of his First Nations.  

His commitment and dedication to asserting First Nation rights, particularly our land rights and fishing rights, were instrumental in advancing the cause of First Nations.  While he would never compromise on First Nation rights, he was a strong believer in reaching out to the broader community to build bridges of understanding.  
 
We send our thoughts and prayers to his loved ones and to all those whose lives were touched by this great man and this great leader.”
 
Chief Ralph Akiwenzie served the Chippewas of Nawash Unceded First Nation, located on the eastern shore of the Saugeen (Bruce) Peninsula on Georgian Bay. He passed away Friday March 4, 2011.

The Assembly of First Nations is the national organization representing First Nations citizens in Canada.
 
Contact information:
Jenna Young, AFN Communications Officer, 613-241-6789, ext 401 or jyoung@afn.ca.