Inaugural First Nations - Self Government Summit Schedule Announced

K'JIPUKTUK, Nov. 21, 2018 /CNW/ - The inaugural First Nations Self Government Summit will include a host of Indigenous leaders from across Canada, November 27-29 at the Halifax Convention Centre.  Over the three-day summit attendees will hear presentations from National Chief Perry Bellegarde, former National Chief Ovide Mercredi, Matthew Coon Come Grand Chief of James Bay Cree, former National Chief Georges Erasmus and former North West Territories Premier Stephen Kakfwi, who will highlight their diverse experiences in self governance.

"We have assembled the most comprehensive line-up of current day self governance expertise with this event," said summit co-chair Morley Googoo Regional Chief for NS and NL.  The schedule will also include overviews from established self governments by former Grand Chief Ruth Massie, detailing the Yukon Self-Government Agreement, Les Doiron, president, Yuułuʔiłʔatḥ government & John Jack, councillor, Huu-ay-aht First Nation government.  The complete summit schedule can be found at www.selfgovernmentsummit.ca.

On day two of the Summit the gala will feature a key note address by Geoff Green founder and expedition leader for Students on Ice along with Indigenous student participant Dre' Toney.  They will share their experience with this inspirational program which brings together more than 100 high school and university students, elders, thought leaders and mentors on an Arctic adventure.  The gala will also include a Mi'kmaq cultural showcase.

The goal of the summit is to take away strategic learnings from other Nations and frame the foundation of Indigenous self government in the Atlantic region. Roger Augustine Regional Chief for NB/ PEI and summit co-chair commented on the gathering, "we know our communities will learn and benefit from this shared experience."  The Summit will provide the opportunity for the Atlantic Regions delegates to examine the existing policies and approaches that are underway across Canada, as they move towards nationhood. The conference will also discuss the federal government's objective of Nation Rebuilding and Rights Recognition Framework.

The Assembly of First Nation's Regional Offices for NS/NL/NB/PEI are delighted to be able to organize this event in partnership with Crown Indigenous Relations Northern Affairs Canada (CIRNA), Indigenous Services Canada (ISC), Kwilmu'kw Maw-klusuaqn Negotiation Office (KMKNO), Mi'kmaw Kina'matnewey (MK), the Atlantic Policy Congress of First Nations Chiefs Secretariat, Ulnooweg, and MBK. 

SOURCE Assembly of First Nations Regional Chief for NB / PEI

For further information: For More Information & Media Credentials Contact: : Corinne MacLellan, 902 209 3234, [e-mail]