Comments were uneducated and unwarranted

Dear Sir or Madam:
We write this letter with great sadness. During the past few days, an aboriginal leader proved to the world that racist ignorance still exists to this day. By now, comments made by David Ahenakew, a senator of the Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations, have been published across the country. These comments were uneducated and unwarranted and severely hurt Jewish and aboriginal communities alike. It is most upsetting that these comments came from a person who has been given great responsibility by our people. He should have represented our people with dignity and honor. When making these remarks, he lost sight of his responsibilities as a leader.

We, the Aboriginal Caucus of the Canadian Federation of Students, are deeply alarmed. Our national students' lobby organization feels that everyone, regardless of background, should live in a world free of racism. We reiterate that, in no way, do David Ahenakew's comments reflect our principles. The comments made do not represent the views of aboriginal people in Canada and never will. The Jewish community and aboriginal community offer much to one another and we hope these comments will not hinder our partnerships. Once again, with all our hearts, we apologize for Ahenakew's actions. We ask you to not let his misguided statements reflect poorly on the many aboriginal people working to combat racism every day.

Lorisha Cook
Aboriginal Caucus National Executive Representative
Canadian Federation of Students