Perry Bellegard

Assembly of First Nations National Chief Perry Bellegarde was at Nipissing University Monday night.

He gave a special lecture, titled Closing the Gap Between First Nations and Canada: An Agenda for Action.

It calls on all Canadians to support closing the gap.

In a release, the university said about 100 people took in the special lecture.  

It goes on to say, Bellegarde explained his plan and vision for comprehensive, collaborative change to close the gap.  He outlined a six-point plan that discusses strengthening First Nations communities, equitable funding for essential services, upholding treaty rights, respecting the environment, revitalizing indigenous languages and ensuring that the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s 94 recommendations are enacted.

“The gap needs to be closed. It’s been 35 years since it has been addressed and it’s not in the best interests of our country to keep it that way. There is a high social cost to this gap,” said National Chief Bellegarde. “You need to get out and vote. The First Nations vote matters, our issues matter. Find out which political party is willing to close the gap.”