London, Ontario October 11th, 2017 – The words spoken by Autumn Peltier in her speech at the July 2017 Chiefs Assembly gives an accurate reflection of the present day situation. We are proud of her and applaud her work as an advocate for clean and sacred waters. She is the only person from Canada who has been nominated for the World Youth Peace Award.
This international award is given out annually to an inspirational child who has made a difference in improving the lives of people worldwide. At only 13 she has been a strong voice for water in calling for it to be cleaned and protected. A member from the Wikwemikong Unceded Reserve in Ontario she comes from a family that is no stranger to hardships. Her grandparents are both residential school survivors and their experiences have had an impact on how her mother raised her three daughters. Autumn’s selfless consideration for others has driven her to continue to deliver the message to the nation. Pressing upon everyone the importance of protecting water to the youth and communities.
Grand Chief Joel Abram says “Congratulations Autumn on your nomination for the International Children’s Peace Prize, and good luck. Your work in advocating for the waters is important and makes you a winner in my book! Keep on doing what you’re doing.”
The Association of Iroquois and Allied Indians, and the communities it represents, are proud of her, her efforts and the strength she has shown. We must take her message to heart for others to hear and we truly feel that she deserves this award.
