ANISHINABEK NATION HEAD OFFICE (April 13, 2018)—Anishinabek Nation Grand Council Chief Patrick Madahbee sends deepest condolences to the family of Larry ‘Dutchie’ French of Chippewas of the Thames First Nation as he embarks upon his journey back into the Spirit World.

“I am very shocked and deeply saddened to see a friend like Dutchie go,” says Grand Council Chief Madahbee. “My thoughts are with his entire family and community during this difficult time.”

French was an active member of his home community where he served 33 years on Chief and Council.

French was well-known within his community as a grassroots activist and warrior having fought many political injustices throughout the years both at the community-level and for the Nation.

“I’ve known him for over 40 years. He was a warrior fighting for First Nations issues for a very long time. He was on the frontline advocating during the American Indian Movement, the Oka crisis, the Ipperwash dispute—he even lost his good friend Dudley George during that dispute.”

French will be remembered for his tireless water, land, and environment protection efforts. He worked relentlessly to ensure citizens had clean water and adequate housing.

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For more information contact:

Marci Becking, Communications Officer Phone: 705-497-9127 ext 2290

Email : marci.becking@anishinabek.ca

www.anishinabek.ca

www.anishinabeknews.ca

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