Opening Dialogue to Support Collaboration between the Cree and Innu Nations

In an effort to coordinate and harmonize certain activities of our respective nations, the Grand Council of the Crees/Cree Nation Government and Innu Nation have committed to a first meeting held today to begin this important dialogue.

This first nation-to-nation engagement will have for objective to ensure that the proper channels are open, and mechanisms are set in place to facilitate a solution-building process of our identified common issues.

“For many generations, our nations have held relations with one another as well as with the land.  The Cree and Innu have historic family ties that bind us still today.  We are hopeful that these discussions can lead us to a revival of our long-standing relationship guided by the mutual respect of our distinct traditions and customs. We are thankful to Chief Réal Mckenzie and council of Matimekush Lac-John for the hospitality and look forward to what the Cree Nation can build with the Innu Nation.” – Grand Chief Mandy Gull-Masty

In the spirit of recognizing and supporting the importance of our activities in Eeyou Istchee and Nitassinan, common issues and priorities will be determined by our Elders, land users and tallymen, community members and carried by our leadership.

“Like all the Innu chiefs present at this meeting, I feel immense pride in seeing the nation-to-nation dialogue that is being built between the Cree and Innu. This type of dialogue is not only a symbol of the autonomy and sovereignty of our peoples, it is also the best way to manage our territory and its resources according to our values and traditions. We are grateful to the Cree Nation for their openness and collaboration. United, we can go further to protect our rights and cultures. ” – Chief Mike Mckenzie, Uashat Mak Mani-Utenam

Flora Weistche
Political Attaché
Office of the Grand Chief
flora.weistche@cngov.ca

Serge Ashini Goupil
Public Affairs
Innu Nation
ashinigoupil@me.com