(January 28, 2025 – Unceded Algonquin Territory, Ottawa, Ontario) — Assembly of First Nations (AFN) National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak issued the following statement on the passing of Hereditary Chief Bill Wilson, Hemas Kla-Lee-Lee-Kla:
“On behalf of the Assembly of First Nations, I extend my deepest condolences to the family and friends of Hereditary Chief Bill Wilson, Hemas Kla-Lee-Lee-Kla, and to all who are grieving his loss. Hemas Kla-Lee-Lee-Kla was a fearless advocate for our rights and freedoms. He spoke hard truths and challenged governments to do better by First Nations. His role in securing the recognition of Indigenous rights in Section 35 in the Constitution Act, 1982, was critical to upholding our self-determination and sovereignty, ensuring the protection of land and Treaty rights for future generations.
Hemas Kla-Lee-Lee-Kla was a teacher to us all. His leadership spanned many roles, including contributions to the National Indian Brotherhood, the Assembly of First Nations, and the Union of British Columbia Indian Chiefs. His legacy is reflected not only in his own work but also in the continued efforts of his daughters, Jody Wilson-Raybould and Kory Wilson, who carry forward his vision and values.
We are grateful to Hemas Kla-Lee-Lee-Kla for dedicating his life to advancing the rights and well-being of First Nations. His teachings and leadership will guide us as we continue the work he started. I wish him well on his journey to the spirit world, and I send prayers to his family, friends, and all who knew him during this difficult time.”
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The Assembly of First Nations (AFN) is a national advocacy organization that works to advance the collective aspirations of First Nations individuals and communities across Canada on matters of national or international nature and concern.
For more information, please contact:
Kelly Reid
Senior Communications Officer
Assembly of First Nations
(613) 292-0857 (mobile)
[email protected]
Cherish Francis
Press Secretary
National Chief’s Office
(343) 630-1372 (mobile)
[email protected]