ATIKAMEKSHENG ANISHNAWBEK PETITION TO GIMAA AND COUNCIL

We the undersigned petition for a second per capita distribution and that the Debendaagziwaad be given the right to vote on this amount in the Referendum to take place on May 25, 2024.

We the undersigned, Debendaagziwaad of Atikameksheng Anishnawbek, who are eligible voters, in accordance with our inherent rights under Gchi-Naaknigewin, petition the Gimaa and Council to include a question in the Referendum Vote on May 25, 2024, that will ask the Debendaagziwaad what they believe to be their individual fair share as an annuitant for the second per capita distribution and to determine what would be a fair amount that they believe should go into trust for the greater community.

On April 15, 2024, Gimaa and Council made an arbitrary decision to approve a per capita distribution of $100,000 to eligible Debendaagziwaad of Atikameksheng Anishinawebek. This decision took away our right to participate in our nation vote to determine what is considered an appropriate per capita distribution.

“Upon careful consideration, Gimaa and Council have agreed that all Debendaagziwaad are equal, and this the per capita distribution method will be an equal distribution method. This means that all Debendaagziwaad will receive the $100,000 CAD regardless of their age or where they reside. Consequently, our upcoming referendum, scheduled for May 25, 2024 will no longer include considerations for selection of a preferred distribution method” Letter from Gimaa and Council, April 16, 2024.1

We the undersigned agree and are happy with an immediate and full payout in the amount of $100,000 and we look forward to receiving it once Atikameksheng Anishinawbek receives settlement funds from the Robinson Huron Treaty Litigation Fund, and;

We the undersigned petition for a second per capita distribution and that the Debendaagziwaad be given the right to vote on this amount in the Referendum to take place on May 25, 2024, as stated above.