NAN 'greatly appreciate' Gord Downie's advocacy

THUNDER BAY, ON: Nishnawbe Aski Nation (NAN) Grand Chief Alvin Fiddler has released the following statement after singer Gord Downie brought national attention to Indigenous issues during The Tragically Hip’s nationally televised concert on the weekend: 

“We are saddened that this could be the final performance by Gord Downey and the Tragically Hip, but we are grateful he chose this momentous occasion to advocate for Canada’s Indigenous Peoples with the eyes of nation focused on him.

"We greatly appreciate his efforts to bring attention to the inequities and injustices facing Indigenous Peoples, especially those in the Far North, and that he called on the Prime Minister to take action.

"There is a lot of talk these days about reconciliation, healing and rebuilding relationships with First Nations and the timing of his comments was perfect.

"Gord has been a strong advocate for the people of Nishnawbe Aski Nation and we are touched by his compassion."  

The Tragically Hip performed a concert in Fort Albany First Nation in 2012 as part of the Great Moon Gathering celebration of Cree culture and education.

They released a song entitled “Goodnight Attawapiskat” on their 2012 album, Now for Plan A.