By Patrick Quinn  Local Journalism Initiative Reporter This year’s annual general assembly, held in Waskaganish August 30 to September 1, was an occasion to recognize the outstanding lifelong contributions of Cree Nation members while making space for the leaders of tomorrow. After Robert Kanatewat was awarded the Lieutenant Governor’s First Peoples Medal in May, the Cree Nation Government decided to make a similar acknowledgement. Bill Namagoose, Robbie Matthew and the late Alice Shecapio were honoured with Acts of Service medals, which were designed by local Cree artist Tim Whiskeychan.   “Since it was the first year, we wanted it to be a surprise,” explained Grand Chief Mandy Gull-Masty. “Next year, it will be more ceremonial, likely part of an evening event, and open to Cree Nation members to nominate people.”

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