AMC GRAND CHIEF DEREK NEPINAK BRINGING MEDICINE AND GIFT IN SUPPORT OF ELSIPOGTOG AND THE MIKMAQ NATION

Mohawk Territory October 19, 2013 Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs Grand Chief Derek Nepinak is travelling today to Elsipogtog Mikmaq territory, in modern day New Brunswick. Acting under the mandate of the AMC Chiefs Executive Council, Grand Chief Nepinak is tasked with demonstrating support for the Mikmaq people of Elsipogtog First Nation and other Indigenous and non-Indigenous supporters. As a demonstration of support for the ongoing peaceful presence of the people, Grand Chief Nepinak will make a presentation of medicines and a beaver pelt to the leadership. Along the route to Elsipogtog from Winnipeg, via Ottawa, Grand Chief Nepinak stopped at the foot of the Mercier Bridge in Kahnawake Mohawk Territory to offer tobacco at a sacred fire lit in support of the Mikmaq effort. Grand Chief Nepinak left the fire keepers and supporters with words of encouragement noting that there are thousands of Indigenous and non-Indigenous supporters across Turtle Island and beyond watching and praying for the safety of everyone involved in the difficulties. The offering of tobacco and sage represents the medicines needed to practice faith and bring clarity of mind and spirit in the face of misinformation and uncertainty. The presentation of the beaver pelt represents the wisdom needed to guide the people through difficult hours, days, weeks and months ahead, stated Grand Chief Nepinak. Contrary to mainstream media reports about allegations of violence, front line peaceful participants have reported that it is with their drums, their songs and their feathers that they are protecting the land and the water. AMC Communication staff are in regular contact with various persons on the ground in Mikmaq territory and updates are being provided via social media. For more information please contact: Sheila North Wilson Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs 204-805-1759 snorthwilson@manitobachiefs.com