By Rosalind Russell – The Anishinabek Nation Chiefs-in-Assembly have declared inherent jurisdiction to decide who belongs on First Nations’ citizenship and membership registries.
Dr. Jeannette Corbiere Lavell, Anishinabek Nation Commissioner on Citizenship says the consensus on the approval of the Anishinabek Nation Declaration on (E’Dbendaagzijig) Those Who Belong sends a message to the federal government that its continued efforts to govern Anishinaabe people (through the Indian Act registration regulations or any proposed legislative options) will be met with strong opposition in favour of Anishinaabe law and jurisdiction.
She says the declaration is a political position that asserts sovereignty and, in effect, is the foundational document that expresses the inherent right to decide who belongs in their communities, according to their own Anishinaabe laws.
Anishinabek Nation Grand Council Chief Linda Debassige adds with the declaration as the foundation of laws on citizenship and belonging, they are asserting inherent rights, as the Anishinabek Nation, as well as relying on the Treaties that are based on that nationhood.
L-r: Anishinabek Nation Southeast Regional Chief Marsha Smoke; Anishinabek Nation Citizenship Commissioner Dr. Jeannette Corbiere Lavell; and Commissioner on Governance, Patrick Madahbee on Day One of the Anishinabek Nation Grand Council Assembly in London, Ontario – Photo by Prachi Nanavati
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