Anishinabek salute the Late Chief Dr. Billy Diamond

UOI OFFICES, Oct 1 /CNW/ - Anishinabek Nation Grand Council Chief Patrick Madahbee says that First Nations people across Canada have lost one of their greatest leaders.

"Chief Diamond worked for all First Nations people across this country," said the Grand Council Chief.  "He was the key negotiator on many major issues. He ensured that Section 35 was included in the Canadian Constitution and was an outstanding business leader."

Chief Diamond's successes as a community leader included his opposition to the damming of rivers in traditional Cree territories, which set a new standard for how governments engage with the Aboriginal community.

His achievements earned him induction into the Order of Quebec and the Canadian Council on Aboriginal Business Hall of Fame.

"The Anishinabek send our heartfelt sympathies to members of Chief Diamond's family," said Grand Council Chief Madahbee.

The Anishinabek Nation established the Union of Ontario Indians as its secretariat in 1949.  The UOI is a political advocate for 40 member communities across Ontario, representing approximately 55,000 people.  The Union of Ontario Indians is the oldest political organization in Ontario and can trace its roots back to the Confederacy of Three Fires, which existed long before European contact.

For further information:

Marci Becking
Communications Officer
Union of Ontario Indians
Phone: [phone] (ext. 2290)
Cell:  [phone]
E-mail:  [email protected]
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