The Anishinabek Nation Chiefs have proclaimed June 6 the Anishinabek Nation holiday, calling it Anishinabek Giizhigad, in honour of the historic proclamation of the Anishinaabe Chi-Naaknigewin constitution.
“On June 6, 2012, the Anishinaabe Chi-Naaknigewin was brought into the ceremony by the Anishinabek Nation Elders, "said Anishinabek Nation Grand Council Chief Reg Niganobe. "On that day, we asserted that we are sovereign with inherent and treaty rights and responsibilities, and guided by the Seven Grandfather Teachings. Today, we recognize June 6 as a day of great importance for the Anishinabek Nation communities to celebrate.”
"The Anishinaabe Chi-Naaknigewin is a commitment to establishing a traditional government that will develop laws and policies for the protection and betterment of Anishinabek," states a news release.
The Anishinaabe Chi-Naaknigewin was developed in consultation with Anishinabek First Nations leaders and citizens over the course of 13 years.
“We encourage all Anishinabek Nation citizens in our 39 First Nations to embrace and honour this day and celebrate it in their own way,” states Grand Council Chief Niganobe. “We are a strong, beautiful, diverse people. We encourage our non-Indigenous counterparts to take the time to learn about our new holiday, culture, traditions, and history, and join in celebrating with us.”
