KENORA – A man from a Treaty 3 First Nation has been appointed Indigenous relations adviser to the government of the westernmost city in Ontario.
A city news release this week said Ed Mandamin “will be pivotal in fostering collaborative relationships between the city and Indigenous communities in this newly established role.”
His appointment reflects Kenora’s “commitment to reconciliation, diversity and inclusion,” the release said.
Mandamin is a member of Iskatewizaagegan #39 Independent First Nation, also called Shoal Lake 39, southwest of Kenora on the west shore of Shoal Lake.
He was raised on the reserve but spent some of his childhood living in Kenora – at a residential school.
“Yeah, I was there from 1973 to 1976,” he said Thursday in an interview.
“Although it was against my will,” he continued. “I was held here against my will, but I was still a resident.”
Those were very different times, when the dark truths about residential schools were “swept under the carpet,” Mandamin said.
“But now that I’m sitting here in city hall. I have to look at that and say ‘OK, that’s not going to happen anymore,” he said.
A key question now, Mandamin said, is about the present: What kind of experience will a youngster from a First Nation have in today’s Kenora?
“Is it going to be a welcoming experience?” Mandamin said.
“Is it going to be an experience that will make him into a drug addict or an alcoholic, or will he want to finish school and become a productive member of society?”
Mandamin, who started his new job on Monday, said he hopes he can help make Kenora a place of positive experiences.
Kenora Mayor Andrew Poirier said he expects Mandamin will provide valuable insight and be “a conduit to working more closely with Indigenous communities and leaders.”
The city describes Mandamin’s role as helping Kenora with partnerships and initiatives that promote cultural understanding and respect.
“His presence at city hall will advance inclusion, build strong and respectful relationships with Indigenous communities, and enhance our understanding and awareness of Truth and Reconciliation,” according to the news release announcing Mandamin’s appointment.
Also new to city administration is Mya Horley, who fills a communications position city council budgeted for in January.
Horley was the social media coordinator for Bimose Tribal Council, a non-profit organization for 10 First Nations including Iskatewizaagegan #39, for the last two- and-a-half years.
Poirier said he is looking forward to her helping the city communicate its message more effectively.
