Alberta First Nations Education in Crisis

September 25, 2008, Calgary, Alberta…Over 800 people gathered for yesterday’s “Protest Rally for First Nation Education”, in Edmonton, Alberta.

Grand Chief Charles Weaselhead of Treaty 7, Grand Chief Wayne Moonias of Treaty 6, and Grand Chief Joe Whitehead of Treaty 8 along with the National Chief Phil Fontaine of the Assembly of First Nations lead the rally walking down Edmonton’s main street on Jasper Avenue.
“It’s important that all Albertans are aware of the discrepancy in funding for band operated schools and educational services. We must invest in our children’s future and hope that the Prime Minister, Steven Harper will make First Nations education a priority in their Conservative mandate this year. If not, you will continue to see the socio-economic disparities in our communities, the time is critical,” stated Grand Chief of Treaty 7, Charles Weaselhead.

“Education is the key to success and improves the quality of life. Like our Canadian neighbours we deserve those same standards. It’s time to stand united for our Treaty right to education. There’s a misconception on how much that First Nations receive in funding for education, it’s 40% less of what non-First Nations receive and as a result, we are feeling the enormous negative impacts on our education system and our children are feeling those effects” stated Grand Chief of Treaty 6, Wayne Moonias.

“Our Treaties are peace Treaties. We did not break our Treaties. We have always lived up to the Treaty. We watch as resources are taken from our land on a daily basis yet we do not see resources coming back that would help us in our educational dilemma. It is cheaper to fund an educational system than it is to incarcerate our people or have them live on welfare. Canada has an opportunity to put the Residential Schools apology in action and we are prepared to work with Canada on the details of a partnership,” stated Grand Chief of Treaty 8, Joe Whitehead.

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