A Partnership for Change

Recently, an important step was taken towards strengthening the relationship between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal communities in the Northeast Superior region. In August, the Northeast Superior Regional Chiefs' Forum (NSRCF), comprised of 6 Chiefs of 6 First Nations, and the Northeast Superior Regional Mayors' Group (NESMG) comprised of the Mayors of 6 local communities, signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) that outlined specific relationship building protocol. The relationship building process between the Mayors' and the Chiefs' began in 2008 and has been facilitated and aided by the NSFC whose board of directors is comprised of the Mayors and a representative of the Chiefs' Forum.

Manitouwadge Mayor and NSFC President John MacEachern outlines that the bonding process between the two groups hasn't always been smooth, but that the current strength of the relationship is unique across Canada. "The bond that has been formed between key Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal decision makers in our region is an anomaly" says MacEachern, " and people across the country are amazed when I tell them about the progress our region has accomplished because of the relationship." Additionally, Clara Lauziere, General Manager of the NSFC, outlines that the level of success the NSFC administrative staff have had to this point can be largely attributed to the ease of relations between the two groups.

The Mayors' and Chiefs' have long had common interests with respect to regional economic stability and the use of natural resources, and the newly signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) formally outlines this. The MoU details that the groups will continue to interact in a manner that is honest, transparent, fair, and equal, and that mutual trust and respect will form the cornerstones of their relationship. Chief Keeter Corston, Chief of Chapleau Cree First Nation points out that the relationship has also facilitated increased opportunities with local industry, saying "the memorandum of understanding between the Chiefs' and Mayors has important linkages to a separate MoU signed by the Chiefs' Forum, The Township of Chapleau, and Tembec Inc., and demonstrates a collaborative regional approach where our Municipalities, First Nations, and forestry companies work together to achieve positive change."

The Mayors and Chiefs will strive for resource development activities that support long-term environmental sustainability and an equal sharing of opportunities between local Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal communities. The agreement also outlines that all local resources, such as wood fibre, are to be processed within the region and utilized in ways that optimize regional economic benefits.

Any successful relationship building process includes a great deal of teamwork, and the agreement outlines that the groups will meet in person at least once annually to identify priorities and undertake appropriate planning. All decisions will be made by consensus and will be supported by both scientific and traditional Aboriginal information.

The camaraderie and trust between our local leaders is a priceless gift and their recent agreement will ensure that the relationship remains strong and positive for years to come. With the continued bond of the Mayors' and Chiefs', the economic future of the Northeast Superior Region will surely be bright.