Press Release
Assembly of First Nations
National Chief and Yukon First Nation Leaders confirm mutual support for
continued efforts advancing First Nation interests and Self Government
agreements
Canada NewsWire
OTTAWA, Nov. 9,
2011
OTTAWA, Nov. 9, 2011 /CNW/ - Assembly of First Nations National
Chief Shawn A-in-chut Atleo today expressed his support for efforts by Yukon
First Nation leaders to achieve full implementation of the negotiated
self-government agreements, particularly for the Crown to fulfill its
responsibilities under such agreements.
"Yukon First Nation leaders are driving change
for the betterment of their citizens and communities by building capacity and
advancing their rights and responsibilities," said AFN National Chief Shawn
Atleo who met with leaders from Yukon region in Whitehorse today. "First
Nations
across Canada are taking forward plans for
self-determination. By building capacity at the community level based on our
interests and values, First Nations will be better equipped to lead change in
ways that are best suited for our success and prosperity."
"It is clear that Canada's comprehensive land
claims policy and inherent rights policies have not kept up with evolving
jurisprudence and instruments such as the United Nations Declaration on the
Rights of Indigenous Peoples - let alone with the vision and ambitions of Yukon
First Nation governments," said AFN Yukon Regional Chief Eric Morris.
"Self-government agreements were negotiated in good faith and it's time for the
Crown to return to the original spirit and intent agreed to as part of the
implementation of these modern agreements. By strengthening First Nations
capacity to govern our own lives, we can move away from the Indian Act which is
not working for our peoples or Canada."
"Ultimately, this is about the real recognition
of Indigenous Peoples, our governments and jurisdiction, our rights and our
relationships with the land. This is about the pursuit of self-determination
and
a clear respectful partnership with the Crown," said Council of Yukon First
Nations Grand Chief Ruth Massie. "However, implementation remains a consistent
issue as the Crown has failed its obligations in many aspects such as attempts
to impose unilateral fiscal arrangements during negotiations that are not
consistent with the spirit of Yukon self-government agreements."
The leaders met to discuss strategies and
options to address ongoing challenges. Independent dispute resolution was
discussed as a possible way forward to ensure effective implementation. Based
on
the discussion, National Chief Atleo committed to advancing options for
consideration with the federal government.
National Chief Atleo also had an opportunity to
meet with Yukon First Nation students and learners during his time in the
north.
He visited the Elijah Smith Elementary School and
was welcomed by the students with a traditional song. He attended a community
celebration focused on a Student Mentorship Program created and operated by
CYFN
in partnership with Yukon First Nation youth leaders and high school
students.
"There is so much that Canada can learn from Yukon First Nations," said
National Chief Atleo. "With their positive attitude, a confident approach, and
abundant support for one another - First Nations can transform the relationship
with Canada and all Canadians, and lift up our
future generations for a better future for us all. As I've seen during my many
visits to this territory, clearly the future is bright for Yukon First Nations
families and children."
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_Commsand @NCAtleo.
Read more: http://www.digitaljournal.com/pr/485358#ixzz1dKgpCADr
