OTTAWA, ON – During the opening ceremony for Assembly of First Nations’ (AFN) Special Chiefs Assembly on April 3, 2023, National Chief RoseAnne Archibald will conclude her opening remarks by honouring JUNO award-winning singer, songwriter, producer, and actress Jully Black with a Blanketing Ceremony and Eagle Feather. They will be joined by the AFN Knowledge Keepers.
This ceremony is being held to honour and acknowledge Jully Black for her strength, her voice, and her allyship. At the 2023 NBA All-Star Game in Salt Lake City, Jully Black historically changed the lyrics of O Canada to, “Our home on native land.” National Chief Archibald responded to Jully’s rendition: “Meegwetch Jully Black for bravely singing the truth. Artists are truth-tellers.”
A Blanketing Ceremony is to show respect for those who have made a significant contribution to the First Nations community.
DATE: April 3, 2023
TIME: 3:30 pm EST
LOCATION: Shaw Centre
Main Plenary Room
Ottawa, Ontario
The AFN Special Chiefs Assembly is simulcast on APTN, CPAC, and will be live streamed through AFN.ca.
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. Follow AFN on Twitter @AFN_Updates.
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For more information please contact:
Andrew St. Germain
Acting Press Secretary
Office of the National Chief
[email protected]