Say No to Bill C-33: the First Nations Control of First Nation Education Act

Dear National Chief Shawn Atleo: We the undersigned are in objection with the current condition of the First Nations Education Act. We believe that the legislation must be fully consulted with all concerned parties to address issues such as access to language and cultural instruction which cannot be certified within the current accreditation processes. We believe that the current definition of a joint council is too broad and will not appropriately prioritize language and cultural instruction. We also believe that giving the Minister of Aboriginal and Northern Development Canada the ability to remove, replace or implement any educational policy is a huge step backwards in the history of relationship within our Nations. Whereas, Education falls within the scope of Treaty negotiations, it is also problematic that this deal was consulted through an agency which is not a Treaty title holder especially for those of us who are Treaty members. The National Chief shall have no inherent political authority, (quoted from the section on Accountability and Authority: Section 21 1). We are asserting our option as sovereign Treaty individuals to remind you that you are accountable to us and we do not consent to this Act. We demand that you reverse your support of this legislation.

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Please Fax a copy of all Petitions to: Attention: Grand Chief Derek Nepinak (204) 956-2109

Send Original Copies of all Petitions to: Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs Sub Office: Suite 200-275 Portage Avenue Winnipeg, Manitoba R3B 2B3 Canada