The chief of Manitoba First Nation is criticizing the media for its coverage of the controversial hate crimes trial of a Native leader.

David Ahenakew, a former chief of the Assembly of First Nations and former head of the Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations, was on trial last week for making anti-Semitic remarks. He praised Hitler for the Holocaust, blamed Jewish people for starting World War II and later said Jewish people controlled the media.

Roseau River First Nation Chief Terrance Nelson said he doesn't condone those remarks. But he said media coverage of the trial will "make a martyr" out of Ahenakew and will justify continued prejudice against Native people.

Nelson's comments are stirring up criticism from Jewish leaders and other Natives.

Get the Story:
Manitoba chief claims Ahenakew coverage increasing hatred of Jews (CBC 4/11)
Manitoba chief stirs controversy, accuses media of anti-native bias (CBC 4/11)
Chief raps 'Jewish' media (The Edmonton Sun 4/12)
Second aboriginal leader criticized for views (The Globe and Mail 4/12)

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