AFN Chief Perry Bellegarde reverses decision not to vote in federal election

The national chief of the Assembly of First Nations says everyone should vote, even community leaders like him who strive to be non-partisan.

Chief Perry Bellegarde’s announcement reverses his earlier decision not to cast a ballot on Oct.19.

“As Indigenous peoples, our relationship is with the Crown, rather than one political party.  And I must work with the entire Crown. This is why I have not voted in federal elections,” Bellegarde said in a statement.

A week ago, the AFN issued a statement encouraging First Nations people to vote in the federal election. But Bellegarde revealed that he’s never voted in a national election, and didn’t plan to this time around.

Bellegarde says he then got an earful from his constituents, who told him he needs to lead by example.

“Last week, I listened to First Nations Elders, leaders, citizens and young people from across our territories.  The message to me is consistent and clear: ‘It is vital that First Nations voices be heard in every way possible, including through the ballot box. You need to be an example.  You need to vote,’” he said.

– with files from The Canadian Press