The Chief of the Assembly of First Nations is heading to South Africa.
Shawn Atleo will attend the memorial service for the late Nelson Mandela.
He will travel alongside an official delegation from Canada.
In a release Atleo says – “The life, work and spirit of Nelson Mandela – or Madiba, as he was called by his people – was deeply connected to First Nations in Canada not only as a fellow Indigenous leader but also because of his incredible struggle for justice and reconciliation that resonates so deeply with the struggle and aspirations of our peoples,”
Although Atleo will miss this week’s special Chief’s assembly in Quebec he will provide a video message to the delegates.