ANISHINABEK NATION HEAD OFFICE (June 6, 2022) – The Anishinabek Nation celebrates the inaugural
June 6 Anishinabek Nation holiday, Anishinaabe Giizhigad, in honour of the historic proclamation of the
Anishinaabe Chi-Naaknigewin (constitution).
“Today, we recognize June 6 as a day of great historical significance for the Anishinabek Nation,
member First Nations, and citizens, and is cause for celebration across the Nation,” states Anishinabek
Nation Grand Council Chief Reg Niganobe. “It is a day where we remember and acknowledge the
assertion of our sovereignty and responsibilities that are foremost guided by the Seven Grandfather
Teachings. It is a day where we celebrate Anishinabek and the resiliency of our people who have
survived decades of assimilation and racism. Our beautiful culture, traditions, and people will continue
on for generations to come. We encourage our E’Dbendaagzijig to join in on this wonderful day today
and on every June 6 to come!”
The Anishinaabe Chi-Naaknigewin was ratified by the Anishinabek Nation Grand Council by Grand
Council Resolution and confirmed by a Pipe Ceremony in Sheguiandah First Nation on June 6, 2012. The
Anishinaabe Chi-Naaknigewin is a commitment to live by Anishinaabe law.
The Anishinaabe Chi-Naaknigewin was developed in consultation with Anishinabek First Nations leaders
and citizens over the course of 13 years. Throughout this period, the consultation process was led by
former Anishinabek Nation Head Getzit Mishomis Gordon Waindubence (Shiikenh)-baa, and included
Dodemaag (Clan) teachings and principles of traditional governance.
In 2011, the Anishinaabe Chi-Naaknigewin Preamble, Ngo Dwe Waangizid Anishinaabe (One
Anishinaabe Family), was approved by the Chiefs-in-Assembly. The Preamble contains instructions on
how to live according to the Laws the Creator has given to the Anishinaabe. Mishomis Gordon
Waindubence-baa sat with an Elders Council to create the Ngo Dwe Waangizid Anishinaabe, which
provides the context, spirit, and intent in which the Anishinaabe Chi-Naaknigewin is understood.
The Anishinabek Nation Executive Leadership proclaimed the new holiday in November 2021.
Relevant Links:
Anishinaabe Giizhigad Information Booklet
Anishinabek Nation June 6 Celebration Livestream
The Anishinabek Nation is a political advocate for 39 member First Nations across Ontario,
representing approximately 65,000 citizens. The Anishinabek Nation is the oldest political
organization in Ontario and can trace its roots back to the Confederacy of Three Fires, which
existed long before European contact.
