Stacey André-Guanish represented the Naskapi Nation and Naskapi youth at the 2026 LCAC Youth Treaty Simulation this past weekend in Ottawa. This educational event brought together First Nations youth from across Canada to learn about treaty negotiation, from initial statements through to final implementation, with a focus on reconciliation and defining rights.
Participants shared concerns and ideas about protecting and increasing caribou herd populations, which have declined rapidly—a critical issue that resonates deeply with our community and traditional way of life.
“I would like to thank The Gordon Foundation and Naskapi Nation for giving me the opportunity to participate in the Treaty Simulation in Ottawa during the weekend,” Stacey shared. “I had the privilege of meeting other First Nations from all over Turtle Island. We learned about treaty negotiation from initial statements to final implementation, aimed at reconciliation and defining rights. In the simulation, we shared our concerns and ideas on how to protect the caribou herd and what actions we needed to take to protect and increase the Caribou herd’s population, as it has declined rapidly.”
Stacey encourages other young people to participate in future opportunities: “I recommend anyone to attend this event, as I had an awesome learning experience and made new friends.”
The Naskapi Nation extends our sincere thanks to The Gordon Foundation for organizing this meaningful educational opportunity and for their ongoing commitment to Indigenous youth leadership development. Congratulations to Stacey André-Guanish for representing the Naskapi Nation and bringing valuable knowledge back to our community.