EAGLE LAKE FIRST NATION (June 14, 2005) - In
a traditional election ceremony, representatives of all First Nations
across Ontario elected a new Ontario Regional Chief today. Angus
Toulouse, of Sagamok Anishnawbek First Nation was chosen in a traditional
standing vote, succeeding Charles Fox who is stepping down after
five years.
“This process has invigorated the resolve of the Ontario First Nations
leadership. Today marks a new day - of unity and a renewed focus on our rights
based-agenda,” said Ontario Regional Chief Toulouse. “I
am humbled by this honour bestowed upon me by the Chiefs and I will be unrelenting
in my approach to carrying out this mandate.”
“We will continue what the Chiefs of Ontario have started in fostering
a new and cooperative relationship with both the federal and provincial governments,” said
Regional Chief Toulouse. “I have pledged to move forward on issues such
as housing, healing and wellness, forestry and obtaining a greater share in the
resources of our treaty territories.
Outgoing Regional Chief Fox provided words of congratulations to the new Ontario
Regional Chief.
“I have every confidence that the Chiefs of Ontario have selected a leader
who will unite our Nations and fulfill the mandate entrusted to him,” stated
outgoing Regional Chief Charles Fox. “This is an historic time for our
Peoples, the federal and provincial governments have signalled their commitment
to re-establishing meaningful working relationships. Our leadership are prepared
to engage these governments, on a government to government basis, and Angus has
the leadership skills to facilitate these processes.”
Ontario Regional Chief Angus Toulouse has been Chief of the Sagamok Anishnawbek
First Nation, located near Massey, Ontario for the past eleven years. He has
also served six years as a band councillor in his community. In addition to his
duties as Chief, Toulouse is also the Lake Huron Region Grand Chief for the Union
of Ontario Indians and has served as Chairman of the North Shore Tribal Council.
He is a strong advocate for a rights-based agenda, including a focus on advocating
for treaty and aboriginal rights. He has held a number of portfolios over the
years including education and natural resources with a focus on forestry.
Seven candidates were nominated for the position, including runner-up Wally McKay
who placed a close second behind Toulouse. Other candidates included: Lorraine
Rekmans (Serpent River), Art Petahtegoose (Whitefish Lake), Allan Luby (Dalles)
Chris McCormick (Batchewana), Larry Jourdain (Lac la Croix), Eli Mandamin (Shoal
Lake #39).
Ontario Regional Toulouse was elected for a four year term, instead of the customary
3-year term as directed by the Chiefs in Assembly.
The Chiefs of Ontario is the coordinating body for all 134 First Nations across
Ontario. The Ontario Regional Chief is also the chair of the Ontario Political
Confederacy and is Ontario First Nations representative on the Assembly of First
Nations (AFN).
For more information contact: Kimberley Whetung
(705) 875-5576
Bob Goulais
(705) 498-5250
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