First Nations need to ‘occupy the field’ – North Bay Nugget

Mar 21, 2025

One of Patrick Madahbee’s favourite expressions was, “We need to occupy the field.”

The longtime Anishinabek Nation Grand Council Chief used more specific words to describe that sentiment when he was confirmed as the Nation’s new Commissioner on Governance.

“For the 47 years I have been involved, we have been talking about getting Indian Affairs off our backs. We have an opportunity here now to do this,” said Commissioner Madahbee, urging Chiefs to look through an “Anishinaabe lens” as they moved closer to the June 23, 2022, Anishinabek Nation Governance Agreement (ANGA) with Canada.

As Anishinabek Nation leaders continue their efforts to ensure that the 39 Anishinabek Nation member First Nations have the information they need to become confident in the ANGA with Canada, examples are emerging of the benefits of First Nations creating their own law-making powers.

Read More: https://www.nugget.ca/news/first-nations-need-to-occupy-the-field