First Nation Youth completes ‘Spiritual Journey for the Innocent’

Press Release

March 29, 2016

THUNDER BAY, ON: Nishnawbe Aski Nation (NAN) Deputy Grand Chief Anna Betty Achneepineskum, on behalf of the Executive Council, recognizes Eabametoong First Nation youth Gordon Slipperjack who completed a two-week awareness walk for First Nations children with his arrival in Sioux Lookout today.

“We are deeply moved that the tragic loss of his brother inspired Gordon to undertake this walk to remember all of our lost children, and our youth currently in care, and our thoughts have been with him at every step of his incredible journey,” said Deputy Grand Chief Anna Betty Achneepineskum. “Gordon’s determination to achieve his goals and his desire to honour our youth is an inspiration.”

Accompanied by his parents and supporters, nine-year-old Gordon left Thunder Bay on March 7 on the ‘Spiritual Journey for the Innocent’ healing walk from Thunder Bay to Sioux Lookout in memory of his late brother, all First Nations children who have passed away while in care, and to raise awareness about First Nation youth in the child welfare system.

A feast will be held in his honour this evening at the Nishnawbe-Gamik Friendship Centre in Sioux Lookout.

More information on his journey can be found at:

Facebook: www.facebook.com/Spiritual-Journey-for-the-innocent

For more information please contact:

Pearl Slipperjack – (807) 355-7965 or David Shawinimash – (807) 623-7218 or by email Shawinimash@hotmail.com

Roxann Shapwaykeesic, Communications Officer – Nishnawbe Aski Nation (807) 625-4906 or (807) 251-6876 mobile or by email rshapwaykeesic@nan.on.ca

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