FSIN CALLS FOR FIRST NATIONS GOVERNOR GENERAL
- Jan 26, 2021
- 2 min read
(Treaty 6 Territory, Saskatoon SK) – The Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations (FSIN) Executive is calling on Canada to appoint the first ever First Nations Governor General.
“Now is the time for the first ever First Nations Governor General of Canada” says FSIN Chief Bobby Cameron. “When the newcomers came to these lands all those years ago, the first relationship the Queens’ subjects formed was with First Nations. As the representative of the Crown, it is important that we use this opportunity to honour the history of that relationship. The Nation building dream of Her Majesty’s (HRH) grandmother Queen Victoria and her heir King Edward VII must be honoured. Having a member of the original Treaties that our grandmothers and grandfathers entered into, be our Majesty’s representative in what is now Canada will carry on the spirit and intent and honour of the Crown. We want in reinvigorate the role of the Governor General and the Crown relationship with our Inherent and Treaty Rights holders. This is a priority for the FSIN.”
A First Nations Governor General could heavily assist in the promotion of Canada from an Indigenous perspective, advocating a national identity while welcoming foreign dignitaries from other Nations with pride. The role of the Governor General acts as the Queen’s representative in Canada and is ceremonial, something that First Nations are very knowledgeable in. The role and responsibilities include parliamentary duties, reading the speech from the throne which outlines the government’s agenda. It also includes giving royal assent to bills passed by Parliament making them law. Lastly, summoning and dissolving Parliament.
The Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations represents 74 First Nations in Saskatchewan. The Federation is committed to honouring the spirit and intent of the Treaties, as well as the promotion, protection and implementation of the Treaty promises that were made more than a century ago.
