First Nations debate return of disgraced leader

Friday, March 9, 2007  

A disgraced Native leader who went to trial for praising the genocide of Jewish people could return to his seat on the Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations senate.

David Ahenakew was a member of the FSIN senate until he was charged with violating Saskatchewan's hate crimes law. In remarks published in the media, he praised Hitler for the Holocaust.

After a highly-charged trial that brought out charges of racism against Native people, Ahenakew was convicted by a judge but won a new trial on appeal. That prompted on tribal leader to seek his reinstatement to the FSIN senate, a group of elders who advise FSIN.

But some First Nations leaders don't want Ahenakew to return. They are debating whether it is even possible to reinstate him.

The Saskatchewan government has appealed the decision that granted Ahenakew a new trial. A hearing takes place later this month, CBC News reported.

Get the Story:
Chiefs discuss Ahenakew's possible return to FSIN senate (CBC 3/8)

Queen's Bench Decision:
Ahenakew v. Queen (June 8, 2006)

Lower Court Decision:
The Queen v. Ahenakew (July 8, 2005)

Relevant Links:
Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations - http://www.fsin.com
Canadian Jewish Congress - http://www.cjc.ca

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