Assembly of First Nations National Chief Supports Grassroots Efforts to End Discrimination and Racism
September 5, 2012
(Ottawa, ON) - Assembly of First Nations (AFN) National Chief Shawn A-in-chut Atleo today expressed his support for grassroots leadership and efforts aimed at addressing discrimination and racism against First Nation peoples in Canada.
“Recent instances of discrimination and racism against First Nation peoples must not be tolerated in any form. Such cases cause long-term negative impacts among our peoples and often times jeopardize opportunities for First Nations and other Canadians to work together,” said AFN National Chief Shawn Atleo. “I fully support and encourage grassroots leadership and efforts to highlight and address concerns as an important part of our work toward reconciliation.”
National Chief Atleo’s comments come after a number of recent incidents of offensive and derogatory terms describing First Nations. Earlier this month, grassroots leadership voiced strong opposition to a so-called joke published in a newsletter by Royal Canadian Legion in Cranbrook, B.C. Cree and Ktunaxa woman Shirley Green, also a member of the Cranbrook legion, addressed her concerns and the Legion apologized. This week, Anishinabe Ian Campeau reached out to Ottawa city council to request assistance and guidance in a campaign to change the name of a local youth football team – the Nepean Redskins, as the term is offensive and does not promote understanding and inclusion among peoples.
“With regard to all cases of racism and discrimination, we must commit to change. We must uncover misunderstandings, address concerns and find mutual solutions in ways that respect and accurately reflect the First Nations cultures and our shared history,” said National Chief Atleo, adding that he specifically urges the Nepean youth football club, Ottawa city council and administration to work together with local First Nations on an appropriate transition for the team.
“Unfortunately these cases and dialogue are not isolated, despite efforts to strengthen relationships between First Nations and other Canadians,” said National Chief Atleo. “This must only encourage all of us to work harder based on the principles of mutual respect and reconciliation.”
The Assembly of First Nations is the national organization representing First Nations citizens in Canada. Follow @AFN_Updates, @AFN_Comms.
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For more information please contact:
Jenna Young AFN Communications Officer 613-241-6789, ext 401; 613-314-8157 or jyoung@afn.ca
Alain Garon, AFN Bilingual Communications Officer 613-241-6789, ext 382 or cell: 613-292-0857 or e-mail agaron@afn.ca
