Stan Beardy elected Ontario Chief

Nishnawbe Aski Nation (NAN) Grand Chief Stan Beardy is the new Ontario Regional Chief.

Elected to the post at the All Ontario Chiefs Conference in Toronto on June 27, Beardy will be the voice of 133 First Nation communities across the province.

Beardy, who served four terms and 12 years at NAN, leaves a legacy of accomplishment on various initiatives including literacy and technological programs.

“I wish him all the best in his new role as regional chief,” said Terry Waboose, NAN's deputy grand chief. “I know that he will continue to champion First Nation priorities particularly resource development and social welfare in the region.”

Born and raised on a trap line at Bearskin Lake First Nation, Beardy has been a stalwart in championing the rights of First Nations in the Nishnawbe Aski territory and James Bay treaty areas by influencing legislation at the provincial and federal level.

Wishing him well is Anishinabek Nation Grand Council Chief Patrick Madahbee, a long-time colleague of Beardy's, who called him a “strong advocate” for his people.

“I am looking forward to joining him in advancing the important issues facing First Nations in Ontario,” he said in a June 29 release.

Madahbee extended his appreciation to Angus Toulouse from Sagamok Anishinabek for representing Ontario chiefs for seven years.