AFN supports Algonquins.

The AFN has written a letter declaring their support for the Algonquins. You can read it here

You may notice the letter is to the Algonquins and their Chiefs and citizens. One can only hope there is a copy sent to the government. Chiefs is vague (which chiefs?, recognized by who the government or the people?). No mention of the Heads of Family structure.

Unfortunately the letter references the UNs declaration of Indigenous rights. Which is a fantastic declaration. I am a big fan of it, but apparently the AFN failed to notice Canada's promise of nothing in reference to the declaration. Perhaps National Chief Shawn A-in-chut Atleo (or his letter writer) should read my blog post on the subject (http://inax5.blogspot.com/2010/03/canada-promises-nothing.html)

I am pleased of the support from a National political body that has the power to do nothing (although some people think it does) but I wish they spoke with a stronger voice, were more in-tune with the people, and would put their foot down more firmly.

Perhaps it would say more if they had representation in the AFN for all the non-treaty Algonquins. Cuz that people, is the actual issue. Way back in treaty signing days the majority of Algonquin chiefs refused to sign treaties, (much like the leader of my people Sitting Bull). So the government moved on with out treaty and took everything; Capitol Hill, Algonquin park, basically eastern Ontario. Now a few signed (Golden Lake). Most didn't. Now here we are generations later and the hereditary heads of family and their chiefs and citizens are fighting for recognition and land. And so it is that the AFN is writing a letter supporting their walk for this issue. So if they support all the Algonquins, do the Algonquin (leaders of those whose ancestors didn't sign treaty) have represented in the AFN? Nope. Lets start there, then get active and lobby the Parliament. The AFN might just be useful and have respect of the people if they did this. Or they can continue to be ever useless, and sometimes patsy.