ANNOUNCEMENT
Métis Nation Mourns Passing of
Harry W. Daniels

OTTAWA (September 6, 2004) --- Métis leader Harry W. Daniels, who is credited with getting the name of the Métis people into Canada's Constitution, passed away this morning in Regina, Saskatchewan at the age of 63. Born in Regina Beach, Saskatchewan, on September 16, 1940, he is survived by his partner Cheryl, sons Michael, Conway, Gabriel and Alexandre and daughters Chantelle and Chigal.

An author, teacher and an actor, Harry W. Daniels was best known for his lifelong dedication to gaining the respect and the recognition of the rights of the Aboriginal Peoples. He worked at all levels in the Métis and Non-Status Indian movement in Canada, first with the Company of Young Canadians and later as President of the Native Council of Canada in the years 1975 - 1981 and 1997 - 2000. It was during the period leading to patriation of Canada's Constitution that Harry was instrumental in ensuring that the clause recognizing Aboriginal and Treaty Rights was included in the Constitution Act, 1982 and that the 'Indians, the Inuit and the Métis' were named as one of the Aboriginal Peoples of Canada.

Long time friend and confidante, Maria Campbell said, "the Métis community has lost its most able statesman and courageous warrior." Murray Hamilton , a close friend who worked with him at Gabriel Dumont Institute said, "he will be greatly missed by all he knew and touched."

"Of all the people I have known personally for 35 years or more, I can't think of anyone else who was more passionate about life and about the cause of the Métis than Harry", said Tony Belcourt, President of the Métis Nation of Ontario. "He had an infectious laugh, a great sense of humor and always had a great story to tell. But when it came to fighting for the cause of Métis rights, he could be tenacious. Thanks to the Great Spirit he was there at the time when the Métis Nation needed someone just like him to pull off what he did - getting Métis into the Constitution of Canada. Harry's drive and determination at that moment, like so many others in his life, led to a great legacy that will stand the tests of time."

A memorial service and celebration of the life of Harry W. Daniels will be held at Regina Beach on September 16, the date which would have been his 64th birthday.

For further information, or to leave a message or tribute, visit the website dedicated to the memory of Harry W. Daniels: www.metisnation.org/harrywdaniels.html

For further information please contact:
Tony Belcourt (cellphone): 613-791-5056
Murray Hamilton (cellphone): 306-270-4580