From The Office of The Chief to All Our Elders.
May 11, 2026
Coming Together in Spirit: An Invitation to Our Elders
To our Elders, Knowledge Keepers, and all members 55+ (on or off the Nation)—we invite you to a special afternoon. We are gathering for a heartfelt conversation with Avi Lewis, and your presence makes this meeting truly meaningful.
Avi Lewis, the NDP leader, has chosen Cowessess as his first public stop to hear directly from community members. Sharing your lived experience will give him the context needed to advocate effectively for our Nation and its claims in Parliament.
This is not just a meeting. It is a time to honor the voices that carry our history. You have guarded our stories and lived through the 1907 Land Loss. We want to sit with you and listen to the wisdom only you can provide.
We hope you will share what the land means to your families. We want to hear your stories about 1907, and understand how land loss has touched our livelihoods, culture, and spirits. Your perspective shows us why this history remains vital today.
Chief and Council, along with community members, will be there to support you. We will listen deeply and ensure your voices are heard with the respect they deserve.
This meeting is about our people speaking from the heart. As we discuss high-value Specific Claims nationally, it is vital that the stories heard in Ottawa come from the families and generations who have lived this history, not just from leadership.
To members and seniors living in the city, your voices and experiences are an essential part of the Cowessess story. The circle isn’t complete without you. Contact the urban office if you need a ride.
We will also be live streaming the event.
The gathering is this Wednesday, May 13th, 2026, 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM at the Cowessess hall.
Chief Erica Beaudin
COWESSESS FIRST NATION #73
