Ed Mandamin of Iskatewizaagegan #39 Independent First Nation says he's eager to take on the role of Indigenous relations adviser for the City of Kenora.
Kenora's new Indigenous relations adviser aims to build bridges between municipality and First Nations
"A lot of the racism and lack of understanding — all that accumulated to where we are today," Mandamin said. "We want to those issues, discuss them and come up with solutions."With direction from Grand Council Treaty #3, Kenora city council created the Indigenous relations adviser position in 2022. Louis Cameron, centre, and the Ojibway Warrior Society occupy the Anicinabe Park in Kenora in this July 1974 file photo. This year marks the 50th anniversary of the park's occupation by young First Nations activists.
Mandamin said it's important to remember that a disproportionate number of people without permanent housing are Indigenous. "I know what it feels like and I know the hopelessness, and without having anybody to throw you a lifeline could be really, really detrimental."When the city first approached Grand Council Treaty #3 about the Indigenous relations adviser position, Dan Morriseau admitted he was skeptical. The political adviser from Couchiching First Nation said he's seen many municipalities attempt to create roles like these over the years, but they lacked sincerity.
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