Shawn -A-in-chut Atleo New National Chief of Assembly of First Nations

Thursday, July 23, 2009 09:55 AM

Premier Gordon Campbell has issued a letter of congratulations to Chief Shawn "A-in-chut" Atleo on his election as National Chief of the Assembly of First Nations:

"The election of a National Chief of the AFN is a historic occasion. On behalf of the people of British Columbia, I congratulate Shawn "A-in-chut" Atleo as he takes the helm as the AFN's new National Chief. The mandate of the AFN is broad and deep, with a membership throughout Canada of approximately 700,000 people of Aboriginal status.

"Chief Atleo has distinguished himself as a leader and visionary with the ability to make positive changes in the lives of those who, for too long, have faced significant historical challenges. A Hereditary Chief of the Ahousaht First Nation, he has served as the Regional Chief of British Columbia to the AFN and since January 2004 has been an elected member of the AFN Executive Committee. In these roles, he has done a great deal to help bridge the socio-economic gaps between Aboriginal people and others, to the benefit of all of us in B.C. and further afield.

"Chief Atleo has a passion for education. When he was appointed in July 2008 as Chancellor of Vancouver Island University, he became the
province's first chancellor of Aboriginal heritage.

"I believe Chief Atleo will continue to be a strong voice as B.C. builds its new relationships with Aboriginal people, founded on reconciliation, recognition and respect. Building on the legacy of three-term Chief Phil Fontaine, and the National Chiefs who have served
before, Chief Atleo's leadership will add to the cultural fabric of our communities, our province and our country."

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