Aboriginal Community Mourns the Loss of a Leader

Ottawa, May 17, 2013 – It is with the saddest of condolences to Anita Harper and to all of his family, community and Nation, that the National Association of Friendship Centres expresses its sorrow at the loss of a truly great Aboriginal leader, Elijah Harper. His simple word of “No” in the Manitoba legislature during the heated days of the Meech Lake Accord in 1987 will always echo resoundingly throughout the Aboriginal world. His incredibly brave and warrior-like stance of holding an Eagle feather as he stood up against the Accord marked an historic moment and the realization in Canada that Aboriginal people as a political force had come of age. It was this series of occurrences in the legislature where he said “No” three times that led to the fall of the proposed constitutional agreement.

Elijah was a hero, a friend, a colleague, a family man, a community man and a champion for all Aboriginal Peoples. He was the right man, at the right time, in the right situation and he succeeded. Elijah will be missed and he will always be remembered. It is with the highest level of respect that the NAFC and the entire Friendship Centre Movement recognize the passing of Elijah into the Spirit world. Our loss is a tremendous gift to the Spirit world and we wish him safe journeys as his spirit flourishes there and finds comfort in those who are welcoming him.

Rest in peace dear friend.

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For more information contact:

Jeffrey Cyr, Executive Director
National Association of Friendship Centres
Ottawa, Ontario
(613) 563-4844