“SCO is proud of our First Nations Veterans and we are grateful to be able to deliver new programming for their benefit.”
-Grand Chief Daniels
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 26, 2023
ANISHINAABE AND DAKOTA TERRITORY, MB — The Southern Chiefs’ Organization (SCO) is pleased to announce the creation of a new project to engage southern First Nations Veterans to identify programming and service needs and gaps in existing services. Our new project will also connect Veterans to services and supports.
“Today, we are pleased to share we are launching a new project to support the well-being of First Nations Veterans. The Southern Chiefs’ Organization is looking forward to learning from and supporting the empowerment of our First Nations Veterans,” said SCO Grand Chief Jerry Daniels. “I acknowledge retired Corporal Melvin Swan for his advocacy and our Chiefs for their ongoing support on this issue. I also commend our federal Treaty partner, Veterans Affairs Canada, for partnering with us on this important project.”
As part of our work to support the well-being of Veterans, SCO plans to host a large gathering in fall 2023, and will also develop a monument and commemoration for southern First Nations Veterans. This new project sets the foundation for enhanced culturally appropriate and relevant services and supports led by SCO.
“I’m so pleased to see that southern First Nation Veterans will receive increased supports through this new project. I am looking forward to being involved and providing the spiritual and cultural care that have been lacking for so many years,” shared retired Corporal Melvin Swan, who is also an advocate and pipe carrier from Lake Manitoba First Nation.
“At SCO, we know it is essential to provide our citizens with culturally responsive, trauma-informed supports when accessing programs and services,” stated Grand Chief Daniels. “Our new project will ensure our First Nations Veterans receive culturally relevant programming delivered by First Nations citizens. Our new project will also help connect Veterans to our various programs to ensure they receive access to opportunities to empower and support them. Veterans have given so much. I am grateful to SCO Veterans for their public service, bravery, and contributions.”
SCO recognizes and values the contributions of southern First Nations Veterans. To visit our Veterans Wall of Honour, visit: https://scoinc.mb.ca/veterans-wall-of-honour/
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The Southern Chiefs’ Organization represents 34 First Nations and more than 83,000 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.
For media inquiries:
Email: media@scoinc.mb.ca