FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: April 22, 2025
ANISHINAABE AND DAKOTE TERRITORY, MB – On behalf of the Southern Chiefs’ Organization and the 32 Anishinaabe and Dakota Nations we represent, Grand Chief Jerry Daniels extends condolences on the passing of Pope Francis.
Grand Chief Daniels states:
“Pope Francis’s leadership will be remembered for its humility and compassion, along with the significant steps he took toward truth, justice, and healing with First Nations peoples.
His historic visit to Canada in 2022 marked a powerful moment as he publicly apologized on the lands of our ancestors for the role the Catholic Church had in the residential school system—a system that inflicted deep and lasting trauma on generations of First Nations people.
The apology offered on Treaty land was not merely symbolic, it was a necessary and meaningful step in the journey toward reconciliation. Many of our Elders, Survivors, and community members found strength in his words and presence.
Prior to the Pope’s historic visit to Canada, he met with First Nations Elders, Survivors, leaders, and delegates in the Vatican, opening the door for continued dialogue, understanding, and action, and for that, we honour his legacy.
One of the Survivors he met with at the Vatican in early 2022 was former National Chief Phil Fontaine, a member of the Sagkeeng Anicinabe First Nation. SCO recognizes the commitment of Mr. Fontaine in advocating on behalf of residential school Survivors.
Pope Francis also had a strong commitment to environmental stewardship, which also resonated with First Nations teachings. He reminded the world of what our ancestors have always known: that the Earth is sacred, and we must protect it for future generations.
While much work remains, we acknowledge and are grateful for the role Pope Francis played in beginning the process of healing. His passing is felt deeply among those who believe in justice, compassion, and the power of truth.”
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The Southern Chiefs’ Organization represents 32 First Nations and more than 87,000 citizens in what is now called southern Manitoba. SCO is an independent political organization that protects, preserves, promotes, and enhances First Nations peoples’ inherent rights, languages, customs, and traditions through the application and implementation of the spirit and intent of the Treaty-making process.
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Email: Media@scoinc.mb.ca