AFN National Chief Expresses Support for Search and Rescue of Neskonlith Man
May 13, 2011
(Ottawa, ON) – Assembly of First Nations (AFN) National Chief Shawn A-in-chut Atleo continues to express support for search and rescue efforts for Neskonlith Lake Indian Band member Neskie Manuel.
“I was welcomed into Neskonlith territory yesterday where community members have pulled together in a search and rescue effort for one of their own,” said AFN National Chief Shawn Atleo. “While everyone is deeply concerned, the effort by the community is inspirational. It’s this kind of support and togetherness that shows the strength of our nations to stand with one another. We are seeing too many of our peoples missing or in unsafe situations and we need governments and all Canadians to stand with us as well in support of safety and security for all First Nations people. Our thoughts and prayers go to Neskie Manuel, his family and his community.”
AFN British Columbia Regional Chief Jody Wilson Raybould also added her support to the community and the search effort. “First Nations across BC express concern and support for this search effort and send our best wishes to the Manuel family and the people of Neskonlith Lake,” she said yesterday.
Neskonlith Lake Indian Band councilor Neskie Manuel has been missing since Sunday May 8, 2011. He was last seen at approximately 1:00am at a family camping ground in Neskonlith, BC. The community held a blanket dance ceremony yesterday to support continued search efforts.
Persons who have information about his whereabouts are encouraged to contact Michelle Jones at 250-573-2780 (collect if necessary), the Neskonlith Indian Band at 250-679-3295 or a local RCMP detachment.
The Assembly of First Nations is the national organization representing First Nations citizens in Canada. Follow AFN and National Chief Atleo on Twitter @AFN_Updates, @AFN_Comms and @NCAtleo.
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For more information please contact:
Beverly Manuel, Mother: (250) 679-2823; Arthur Manuel, Father: (250) 319-0688
Grand Chief Stewart Phillip, Union of BC Indian Chiefs: (250) 490-5314
Jenna Young, AFN Communications Officer 613-241-6789, ext 401 or jyoung@afn.ca
Alain Garon, AFN Bilingual Communications Officer (613) 241-6789, ext 382 or agaron@afn.ca
