Municipal Leaders To Discuss Aboriginal Concerns

Municipal Leaders To Discuss Aboriginal Concerns

Wednesday, August 11, 2010 at 13:09

 

 

Aboriginal issues will be front and centre during a gathering in North Battleford next month.

 

The 8th Annual Western Municipalities Aboriginal Gathering will be held from September 27th to 29th.

 

City Councillor Ray Fox is organizing the event.

 

Fox went to last year’s gathering in Winnipeg and came away very impressed.

 

He says it’s a great chance to help non-Aboriginal city politicians understand Aboriginal issues.

 

Politicians invited to speak include Premier Brad Wall, Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations Chief Guy Lonechild and Metis Nation – Saskatchewan President Robert Doucette.

 

This year’s theme is “Strength, Unity and Pride – It’s Time.”

 

Fox says that theme represents a desire to make sure Aboriginal people are not forgotten by politicians when other issues come up.

 

Fox says although some progress has been made, lots more needs to be done to help Aboriginal people get out of poverty.

 

The agenda for next month’s event includes a panel discussion on urban reserves and how they are working, as well as a presentation on the history of the Treaty Commissioner’s Office.