Posts By: ASSEMBLY OF FIRST NATIONS

(Ottawa, ON) – Assembly of First Nations (AFN) National Chief Perry Bellegarde will attend a meeting tomorrow with Premiers, territorial leaders and Indigenous representatives in Big River First Nation, Saskatchewan.  This meeting is focused on the well-being of Indigenous children, youth and families and takes place in advance of the Council of the Federation meeting in Saskatoon on Wednesday.

“I’m attending tomorrow’s roundtable discussion to ensure First Nations are involved in any discussions and decisions regarding our most valued, our children and families,” said AFN National Chief Perry Bellegarde.  “This is the first meeting of premiers and territorial leaders since the passing of new federal legislation that’s essential to the well-being of our children. This requires support, cooperation and coordination between all governments and First Nations to ensure respect and safety of our children. No child can be overlooked or left behind. I am seeking a commitment from all provinces and territories for this important work.”

National Chief Bellegarde has consistently called for First Nations and AFN involvement at all federal, provincial and territorial meetings, the Council of the Federation and other inter-governmental forums. 

“First Nations must be at every decision-making table on issues and priorities that impact our people, our nations and territories,” said National Chief Bellegarde.  “We are seeing more and more the proof that meaningful inclusion and collaboration with First Nation is constructive and productive and leads to better decisions and better results for our people and all of Canada.  This is the only way to ensure our rights, title and jurisdiction are respected, and that decisions actually have positive impacts on the ground.”

Bill C-92, An Act respecting First Nations, Inuit and Métis children, youth and families received Royal Assent June 21, 2019.  The legislation focuses on First Nations jurisdiction over child welfare and supports First Nations governments in developing their own systems for First Nations child welfare. It was developed with input from First Nations.

During a meeting with premiers and territorial leaders in July 2016, National Chief Bellegarde received a commitment from all provinces and territories to work with First Nations in their regions on new approaches to First Nations child and family services that emphasizes prevention instead of apprehension.  This included supporting solutions and systems designed and driven by First Nations and an agreement to work with First Nations on new approaches to reduce the number of First Nations children in care and to ensure results are tangible and measurable.

The Assembly of First Nations is the national organization representing First Nation citizens in Canada. Follow AFN on Twitter @AFN_Updates.

Winnipeg, MB June 28, 2019)…On June 24, 2019 in Winnipeg, Maxim Truck & Trailer signed a three-year $150,000 commitment to support Live Different’s Canadian Youth Fund, which exists to instill hope and purpose in youth across Canada. More specifically, the donation will directly support Live Different’s work in Indigenous communities across Canada.

“We are thrilled to partner with Live Different to help bring positive youth development pro=gramming to Indigenous communities across Canada,” says Troy Hamilton, President of Maxim Truck & Trailer. “I have personally seen the impact of Live Different’s work and we are excited to support their programs designed to inspire youth to recognize their value and potential.”

Live Different was established as a Canadian charity in 2000. The Maxim contribution will help Live Different to continue instilling messages of hope and purpose in Indigenous young people all across Canada.

“We are honored to partner with Maxim as it is clear that our values are completely aligned,” says Charles Robert, Executive Director of Live Different. “We each understand the responsibility we have as Canadians to take respectful steps towards reconciliation.  When a company makes this kind of financial investment in the lives of Indigenous youth across Canada, it shows the depth of their heart and conviction to this conversation. We are thrilled to have partners like Maxim who really get behind us and help make our programming possible.”

Live Different is passionate about making a difference in lives through youth empowerment presentations, humanitarian build programs, and leadership development opportunities. Over the past 18 years, they have had the opportunity to speak to over 1.5 million students, to build over 500 homes and schools, and to mentor more than 4,500 students/interns/volunteers.

Maxim has been a long-time supporter of many charities including those funding community organizations, the arts, amateur sports and health. Each year, portions of the company’s profits are designated for charitable giving. Maxim is excited to add the Live Different partnership to their giving.

Maxim Truck & Trailer has 17 branch offices and 600 employees in 11 cities from Vancouver to Montreal. Maxim Truck & Trailer capabilities include the sale, rental, leasing, and complete after-sales service of new and used heavy-duty trucks and trailers.