Aboriginal leaders want premiers to focus on education

Assembly of First Nations (AFN) national chief Shawn A-in-chut Atleo gave five recommendations to Canada's premiers and said he's encouraged by their support for First Nations.
The national chief attended a meeting of premiers and territorial leaders with AFN Manitoba regional chief Bill Traverse in Churchill, Man. Aug. 4.
"I am encouraged that once again the premiers and territorial leaders have shown they understand the importance of working with us to set an agenda based on our common interests," Atleo said. "I firmly believe that when we open the door to a school, we close the door to a jail."
Atleo's plan urged the provinces to adopt five measures of action:
-For each province and territory to confirm an action plan for First Nation education, consistent with the AFN's recently-released report First Nation Control of First Nation Education.
-Develop resource revenue sharing agreements that recognized Aboriginal title in each province and territory.
-Create a national strategy to end violence against Aboriginal women.
-Establish a First Ministers' meeting on Aboriginal issues.
-For Canada to sign on to the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous People.
"First Nations confirmed our direction at the AFN Annual General Assembly held just two weeks ago in Winnipeg, Man. The meeting with the Council of the Federation was an opportunity to put forward recommendations for action that will help to build stronger First Nations citizens and communities and a stronger federation," Atleo said.