February 27, 2013

Ottawa, ON) – As part of a panel of Indigenous leaders, Assembly of First Nations (AFN) National Chief Shawn A-in-chut Atleo will discuss the importance and mutual benefits for all parties to Treaty and agreements to commit to implementation at the fourth annual National Land Claims Agreements Coalition Conference taking place this week at the Hilton Lac Leamy in Gatineau.

“Now is an exceptionally critical time for First Nations as we drive forward for fundamental change in the relationship between First Nations, the Crown and all Canadians. Our continued work is about nation building and relationship building in ways that respect our rights and responsibilities and implements the solutions we have for the challenges we face,” said AFN National Chief Shawn Atleo. “We stand firmly with all First Nations in their pursuit of reconciliation, justice and meaningful implementation of Treaty and all agreements.”

National Chief Atleo will join Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami President Terry Audla and Grand Council of the Crees Grand Chief, and former AFN National Chief Matthew Coon Come Thursday February 28 at 9:00 a.m. to discuss trends shaping current government policy, the implications for modern treaty implementation and how governments can and must be held accountable while moving forward.

“I commend the leadership of the Land Claims Agreements Coalition for showcasing successful agreements and their future implications on all our Nations and the country as a whole,” said National Chief Atleo. “This is our work going forward – coming together recognizing our diversity and united by our common objectives for respect for our lands and the success and prosperity for our peoples and Nations. Together we will drive tangible and concrete outcomes based on our respectful roles and responsibilities and commitment for honourable implementation, respect and accountability from all governments.”

The National Land Claims Agreements Coalition Conference ‘Keeping the Promise: The Path Ahead to Full Modern Treaty Implementation’ celebrates the successes of modern treaties, discusses the context and foundation for political, legal, economic and social landscapes within Canada and internationally and aims to set the path ahead toward a future of increasing self-reliance and self-sufficiency. As part of the conference, the 40th anniversary of the land-breaking Supreme Court decision in the Calder case will be recognized. The AFN extends our recognition in celebration of the Nisga’a leadership in this case and in their tireless efforts to achieve justice and co-existence to the mutual benefit of the Nisga’a and all Canadians. For more information on the conference visit www.landclaimscoaltion.ca

The Assembly of First Nations is the national organization representing First Nations citizens in Canada. Follow us on Twitter @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; 613-292-0857 or agaron@afn.ca