Anishinabek Nation launches two new elementary books to kick off Treaties Recognition Week

WHITEFISH RIVER FIRST NATION  (November 6, 2017)— Two new elementary books that explain treaties to elementary students were launched today at Shawanosowe School in Whitefish River First Nation.

The books – Alex Shares his Wampum Belt and Dakota Talks about Treaties are a complement to the already popular “We are all Treaty People” teachers kit that is being used by over 2000 English schools and 1000 French schools all across the province.

“These new books are great resources for elementary teachers to use in their classrooms,” said Anishinabek Nation Grand Council Chief Madahbee. “It will help students at a younger age learn about the treaty relationship.  Teachers will be getting out the message that treaties are the legally binding and sacred agreements that set out the rights, responsibilities and relationships of First Nations and federal and provincial governments.”

Honourable Education Minister Mitzie Hunter says that these books will be wonderful additions to classrooms across the province.

“Books like these help to enrich all students’ understanding of the histories, cultures, contributions and perspectives of Indigenous peoples in Canada,” says Minister Hunter.

Author/educator Kelly Crawford of M’Chigeeng First Nation and artist Donald Chretien of Nipissing First Nation collaborated on the project.  The books are also available in French and can be ordered through the Anishinabek Nation head office by emailing orders@mobilewebdesigncanada.ca.

The Union of Ontario Indians is a political advocate for 40 member communities across Ontario, representing approximately 65,000 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. The Anishinabek Nation established the Union of Ontario Indians as its secretariat in 1949.

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For more information contact:

Marci Becking Communications Officer

Phone: 705-494-0735

E-mail: marci.becking@mobilewebdesigncanada.ca

www.anishinabek.ca

www.anishinabeknews.ca