AFN National Chief Perry Bellegarde Says New Bank Note Honoring Senator James Gladstone Highlights First Nations Contributions as Nation Builders

OTTAWA, April 7, 2017 /CNW/ - Assembly of First Nations (AFN) National Chief Perry Bellegarde today attended the unveiling of a new Bank of Canada $10 commemorative note that recognizes Senator James Gladstone, the first status Indian to be appointed to the Senate of Canada in January 1958.

AFN National Chief Bellegarde stated: "I lift up the Bank of Canada for honouring Senator Gladstone and highlighting the contributions of First Nations people as nation builders. Efforts like this help to educate all Canadians about our shared history, and education is important to achieving our goal of reconciliation. This is a year to dedicate ourselves to understanding our history and our original relationship of partnership and sharing. We must all commit ourselves to restoring it, so we can move forward together. Today, we remember Senator Gladstone's accomplishments and his commitment to our people, and we join in celebration with his family and his nation."

Senator James Gladstone, a member of the Blood Reserve in Alberta, was appointed to the Senate of Canada in January 1958. The commemorative bank note unveiled today also includes portraits of Sir John A. Macdonald, Sir George-Étienne Cartier and Agnes Macphail. This polymer $10 note will be in circulation by June 1, 2017.

The AFN is the national organization representing First Nations citizens in Canada. Follow AFN on Twitter @AFN_Updates.

SOURCE Assembly of First Nations

Media contact: Alain Garon AFN Bilingual Communications Officer 613-292-0857 or [email protected]