Ref. #2-3467
Ottawa, Ontario (March 8, 2011) – The Honourable John Duncan, Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development and Federal Interlocutor for Métis and Non-Status Indians, issued the following statement today on the passing of Chief Ralph Akiwenzie, Chief of the Chippewas of Nawash Unceded First Nation.
“It is with great sadness that we learned of the passing of Chief Ralph Akiwenzie, a dedicated individual and representative of his people. He dedicated his entire working life to create a better future for Aboriginal people in Ontario, and he leaves us as a leader and champion of First Nations' rights. On behalf of the Government of Canada, I extend our sincere condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of Chief Akiwenzie. It is a testament to his hard work and commitment that he was the Chippewas of Nawash Unceded First Nation's longest serving Chief, being elected a remarkable total of 22 times.”
The Honourable John Duncan
Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development and
Federal Interlocutor for Métis and Non-Status Indians
