Assembly of First Nations National Chief Statement on the Passing of Former Tsuu T'ina Nation Chief Gordon Crowchild

OTTAWA, Jan. 13, 2015 /CNW/ - Assembly of First Nations (AFN) National Chief Perry Bellegarde offered the following statement today on the late Gordon Crowchild, former Chief of Tsuu T'ina Nation in Alberta and a man with many accomplishments, who passed away Monday, January 12 at the age of 85:

"It is with honour and humility that, as National Chief of the Assembly of First Nations, I acknowledge the passing one of our most respected Elders from the Tsuu T'ina Nation, Chief Gordon Crowchild.  He was a strong advocate for the rights of First Nations and our citizens throughout his life.  He was instrumental in the advancement of the Tsuu T'ina Nation, and he promoted the development of our youth through sports and culture.  On behalf of the AFN and our Executive, I offer our sincerest condolences to the family and friends of Elder and Chief Crowchild.  His passing brings us the opportunity to celebrate his life, achievements and contributions.  Many of us, Indigenous and non-Indigenous alike, will remember our late brother for his skill and accomplishments in the professional rodeo circuit and development of the Indian Rodeo Cowboys Associations.  He competed in many events and was recognized by the Canadian Professional Rodeo Hall of Fame by being inducted in 2005 for his contributions to Pro-Rodeo.  Gordon Crowchild was a man of many talents and he approached everything he did with a spirit of fearlessness and determination."

Tsuu T'ina Nation is planning to hold a state funeral for former Chief Gordon Crowchild and the details will be forthcoming.

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

SOURCE Assembly of First Nations

Alain Garon, AFN Bilingual Communications Officer, 613-241-6789, ext. 382; 613-292-0857 or [email protected]; Jenna Young Castro, AFN Communications Officer, 613-241-6789 ext. 401, 613-314-8157, [email protected]