(Ottawa, ON): It is with great sadness that the Assembly of First Nations (AFN) acknowledges the passing of Chief Harry St. Denis of the Wolf Lake First Nation in Quebec.
“Chief St. Denis was actively engaged in the Assembly of First Nations and was always a major contributor to discussions at AFN Assemblies and meetings. As a long time First Nation leader, Chief St. Denis was a well-known and well respected advocate for the Algonquin Nation and First Nations across the country,” AFN National Chief Perry Bellegarde said. “Our hearts go out to the Wolf Lake First Nation and the family of Chief St. Denis in this time of sorrow. As one of the longest serving First Nation Chiefs, he will always be remembered as a leader who worked tirelessly to create a better future for his people and all First Nations.”
Chief St. Denis was devoted to his community and served as Chief from 1986 until his passing. He fought for land rights, forestry protection, and the recognition of First Nation cultures and beliefs. The Wolf Lake First Nation is one of five First Nations in Quebec that do not have reserve lands set aside under the Indian Act for their use and benefit. Chief St. Denis strongly advocated for Canada’s comprehensive claims process to be improved and be more effective.
The AFN is the national organization representing First Nations citizens in Canada. Follow AFN on Twitter @AFN_Updates.
For media requests or more information, please contact:
Monica Poirier
Bilingual Communications Officer
Assembly of First Nations
613-241-6789 ext. 382
613-292-0857 mobile
[email protected]