TORONTO—The Chiefs of Ontario will honour advocate Sam George at Justice Honoured: a gala and benefit concert to be held on Wednesday, November 19, 2008 during the Special Chiefs Assembly in Toronto, Ontario. Sam George will be honoured for his work in seeking justice for his brother Dudley George and the community of Kettle and Stony Point over Ipperwash Park.

The event will include a silent auction, appreciation dinner and benefit concert hosted by Carla Robinson  and Stan Wesley. Artists scheduled to participate in the evening include Keith Secola,  Brock Stonefish, Travis Shilling, Lucie Idlout, Angela DeMontigny, Nadya Kwandibens & Adrienne Fox Keesic of Red Works Studio, Sarah Decarlo and more surprise guests!!!

“Sam George has set the greatest example for us in the struggle to see justice,” says Regional Chief Angus Toulouse. He adds, “Sam George’s commitment and dedication to his brother Dudley and to his community will be recognized by First Nations leadership from across Ontario at this special honouring of Sam.”

After Dudley lost his life while protecting First Nations treaty and inherent rights at Ipperwash Park in 1995, Sam George began a quest for justice in light of government inaction on the events that occurred at Ipperwash. Sam George has since dedicated his time to continue this quest on behalf of his brother. In 2003, when the McGuinty government was formed, an inquiry was called to investigate and report on the events that lead to Dudley George’s death. The result of the inquiry was a four volume report including 100 recommendations that will result in positive change for First Nations people and all Ontarians.

Recently, Sam George has been diagnosed with cancer. In an effort to support Sam George and his family, funds raised from this event will contribute to offsetting the George’s financial burden and recent medical costs.

Date: Wednesday, November 19^th 2008

Place: Westin Harbour Castle, 1 Harbour Square, Toronto, Ontario

Silent Auction and reception:  5:30 pm

Supper: 6:30pm

Concert: 8:00pm

The Chiefs of Ontario represents 133 First Nation communities located within the Province of Ontario. The Chiefs of Ontario is the coordinating office providing a unified voice and political leadership on regional, provincial and national priorities affecting First Nation people. Political organizations comprising the Chiefs of Ontario include Nishnawbe-Aski Nation, the Anishinabek Nation/Union of Ontario Indians, Grand Council Treaty No. 3, Association of Iroquois & Allied Indians and Independent First Nations.

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For more information, please contact:

Harmony Rice, Communications or Christine Evans

Chiefs of Ontario

1-877-517-6527

416-576-9718

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