APTN National News
Condolences are pouring in for Aboriginal leader Elijah Harper who died Friday morning.
From Twitter and Facebook to official statements many people are expressing sorrow for a man many considered a hero.
“Elijah’s commitment and dedication to asserting and upholding First Nation rights and recognition has helped lay a solid foundation as this hard work continues today,” said Assembly of First Nations National Chief Shawn Atleo. “I offer sincere condolences to the family, friends and all First Nations in Manitoba region and across Canada mourning the loss of a tireless and courageous leader of our peoples.”
Harper died of cardiac failure in Ottawa due to diabetes complications. He was 64.
Harper is best known for standing up against the Meech Lake Accord.
He was recognized as Newsmaker of the Year by the Canadian Press in 1990 for raising an eagle feather while refusing unanimous consent of the Manitoba Legislative Assembly.
The iconic gesture sealed the fate of the Meech Lake Accord.
“Elijah will also be remembered for bringing Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people together to find a spiritual basis for healing and understanding. We will miss him terribly and love him forever,” his family said in a statement.
Congress of Aboriginal Peoples National Chief Betty Ann Lavallee said Harper will be missed but never forgotten.
“As we all know Elijah was a great leader who stood up for what he believed in. His refusal to accept the Meech Lake Accord because it was negotiated without the input of Canada’s Aboriginal Peoples illustrates his unwavering commitment,” said Lavallee.
The Union of British Columbia Indian Chiefs said they were shocked and deeply saddened to learn Harper died.
“We shall never forget Elijah Harper’s courage, tireless commitment and deep sense of political integrity,” said a release. “We shall be eternally grateful to Elijah Harper for the tremendous contribution he made, in spite of great personal sacrifices, to defend the sovereign interests of the Indigenous Peoples of Turtle Island.”
As soon as news began to spread of Harper’s death people took to social media.
“I am saddened at the news of the passing of my friend Elijah Harper. Many people will be mourning today. I will be one,” said Murray Sinclair, chair of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission hearings.
Another person kept their comment short and said Harper was a “legend.”
People also took to APTN’s Facebook account.
“Memories of Elijah at pow wows, meeting Mr. Harper on the street with his son, a beautiful and peaceful soul,” said Dee Pratt.
Another said: “I remember when he walked into any room his spirit felt so at peace, it was as if he settled a serene calmness on a room and everyone in it.”
Funeral services will take place at 10 a.m. Monday at the Aboriginal Funeral Chapel in Winnipeg, M.B.
“May the wisps of sweat grass protect him on his journey,” said Tony Mandamin on Facebook.
Highest honours, respects, condolences to the families…..Creator claims the best…..RIP EH……..THE ONE that shocked the country into reality check…..all my relations…
Condolences to the Harper family….R.I.P. Elijah…may your journey to the Happy Hunting Grounds be a smooth journey….you made history on your earth walk that impacted all of us ….your people! Continue your work from the other side….O’nen ki wahi…..