The Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations (FSIN) in Saskatchewan says it is taking Gord Downie’s “powerful words” at a nationally televised show to heart.
WATCH: Gord Downie and the Hip ‘gone fishin’ after emotional tour
The Tragically Hip’s lead singer addressed Justin Trudeau, who was present at the band’s “Man Machine Poem” tour concert on Saturday at the Rogers K-Rock Centre in Kingston, Ont.
“Prime Minister Trudeau’s got me, his work with First Nations. He’s got everybody. He’s going to take us where we need to go,” Downie said on stage.
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FSIN said they are thankful for Downie publicly supporting the building of better communities and improving the lives of First Nations people across Canada.
“It’s very encouraging to hear Mr. Downie use his celebrity to endorse the work of Prime Minister Trudeau,” FSIN Chief Bobby Cameron said in a written statement.
“Downie is right, there is much work to do to improve the lives of indigenous people but with his support and bringing these issues to the forefront for Canadians, more people will take the time to learn the true history of Canada. Our inherent and treaty rights are at the heart and soul of the issues that concern indigenous people.”
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The FSIN represents 74 First Nations in Saskatchewan.
“Our prayers are with Mr. Downie as he bravely battles brain cancer,” Cameron said.