Looking Back at our Shared Journey, Celebrating Thirty Years
THUNDER BAY, ON- Matawa First Nations Management (MFNM) today announced that that the 30th Annual General Meeting (AGM) will take place from July 31, August 1 & 2, 2018.
The AGM provides Matawa people with the opportunity to gather as Nations, to celebrate the many success that has taken place over the last year and, reflect on the challenges that continue to be faced and, to develop solutions moving forward. This year, Nibinamik First Nation is hosting the meeting. Over 100 delegates across the Matawa region are expected to attend.
David Paul Achneepineskum, MFNM CEO, stated: “The 30th AGM in Nibinamik First Nation will bring together Chiefs, Elders, Wome, and Youth from each of Matawa’s nine First Nations who are the foundation of our community-driven agenda and approach. Through this AGM, the Peoples of the Land will assist in developing constructive actions for moving forward on priority issues and in mandating the Matawa Chiefs and its tribal council organizations on taking action to strengthen their unity and resolve to protect their lands and resources for their prosperity.”
During the AGM, the MFNM Board of Directors will be reviewing corporate matters along with the Matawa Chiefs Council who will be providing overall strategic direction to the organization and broad governance on collective issues. Additionally, a number of issues are expected to be discussed in the areas of health, education, language revitalization, regional framework agreement and jurisdiction.
Other events will include the Louis Waswa Memorial Award presentations, a Nishnawbe Aski Nation candidates forum, presentations from Women, Elders and Youth of Nibinamik First Nation and other Matawa
The word “Matawa” is an abbreviation of the Cree place name called “Mammamattawa,” which is on the historic homeland of one of our communities meaning “a place of many rivers coming together.” It is a name that Matawa leadership and Elders decided was fitting of the organization to recognize that the rivers have been, and, continue to act as our lifeline and existence as our Nations come together.
NINE FIRST NATIONS
Aroland First Nation, Constance Lake First Nation, Eabametoong First Nation, Ginoogaming First Nation, Long Lake #58 First Nation, Marten Falls First Nation, Neskantaga First Nation, Nibinamik First Nation, Webequie First Nation.
