Update from Nishnawbe Aski Nation
Booshoo, Wacheya!
This summer has been very difficult for many of our people due with having to evacuate their home communities due to forest fires burning across our territory.
Thousands of people were evacuated and relocated to host communities all over this province. Some were evacuated for a short period of time while others for weeks. Some of the communities were kept together while others were separated. This became extremely difficult for a lot of people. As you can imagine, the effects of being removed from your home and relocated at a moment's notice is difficult for anyone.
It was comforting to know and to witness the generosity and kindness given by host communities, church groups and volunteers around the region. During the time that our people were staying in the host communities, there was entertainment planned for children and families, as well as volunteers providing facilities, meals and other assistance to those who were evacuated. From watching children enjoy a friendly game of basketball to a single child jumping in a puddle for his own gratification, it was amazing to see the perseverance and strength our people showed during this trying time.
The aftermath for many people has been equally, and in some cases even more difficult. Some families have lost food and supplies which has gone bad due to power outages. Others have come home to their homes being left in ruins due to fire. Rest assured that Nishnawbe Aski Nation is working hard to ensure that compensation and assistance is provided to those families who have lost their personal belongings. We have written a letter to the federal and provincial government, requesting a meeting, to discuss the next steps.
Thank you again to everyone who helped to contribute to the safety of our people.
In Unity,
NISHNAWBE ASKI NATION
Stan Beardy, Grand Chief
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