Elder’s Gathering Brings Together Fond Du Lac Band and Anishinaabe Nation of Treaty #3

Fond Du Lac, Minnesota

Black Bear Casino, located on the Fond Du Lac Reservation in Minnesota graciously hosted elders, chiefs, and staff members from the Anishinaabe Nation of Treaty #3 for the four-day Niibaakawin Elder’s Gathering

Tribal Chairman Kevin Dupuis spoke on the connection that Treaty #3 and the Fond Du Lac Band have through their shared language, culture, and connection as treaty people. Chairman Dupuis spoke further on the fact that the Treaty #3 Nation has never ceded its land, and this strength is part of the foundation of Treaty #3 sovereignty.

Ogichadaa Francis Kavanaugh recognized and acknowledged the traditional territory of the Fond Du Lac band. Gifts were exchanged from the leadership of both nations, demonstrating the respect both nations have for one another and the traditional protocols of the two nations. Chairman Dupuis, and Chief Francis Kavanaugh were recognized through an honour song. Treaty #3 chiefs and leaders from Fond Du Lac were invited to dance together to support their leaders.

The gathering was focused on building a dialogue between elders and receiving direction from their combined wisdom on challenging issues across the environment and natural resources, health, education and justice.