The oath I accepted was not simply to hold a title. It was to carry the responsibility of safeguarding our people, our lands, our governance, and the future of generations yet to come. Every decision I make must be guided in the best interests of Keeseekoowenin.
I understand that some members may already be thinking about the election in 2027. I respect that. But I want our people to understand that my focus is not on an election.
My focus is on the responsibility of protecting our Nation.
When I insist on transparency and full disclosure, I do so because I understand the seriousness of the responsibility that comes with being Chief. Leadership is not about convenience or popularity. It is about accepting the responsibility to protect our Nation, even when that responsibility requires difficult decisions.
Today, I believe we are facing something much greater than politics. We are facing a moment where we must decide who we are as a people.
I believe we have a responsibility to carefully address the emergency response to municipalization and what it means for the future of our Nation. At the same time, we have an opportunity to explore and strengthen our true identity as Anishinaabe people, to better understand and exercise our inherent sovereignty, and to reconnect with the responsibilities that come with living according to Natural Law.
It is about ensuring that our children and grandchildren inherit a Nation that understands who it is.
To me, sovereignty is not simply a legal or political word. Sovereignty begins with responsibility. It begins with our families.
It begins with how we care for one another, how we honour our teachings, how we govern ourselves with integrity, and how we protect what was entrusted to us by those who came before us.
That is where my focus will remain. Not on an election.
My Focus is about protecting our Nation and creating an opportunity for our people to reclaim the identity, responsibilities, and way of life that have always defined us.
That is the responsibility I accepted as your Chief and that is the responsibility I intend to honour.
WITHOUT PREJUDICE. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
Chief Dwayne Blackbird
Ohkitchetah Assiginack