HAPPY VALLEY-GOOSE BAY, LABRADOR, January 17, 2024 – NunatuKavut Community Council (NCC) President Todd Russell today issued the following statement regarding Chief Mise’l Joe’s retirement from his position as administrative chief of Miawpukek First Nation:
“I was saddened to hear that, after three decades as Chief and five serving his community politically, Chief Mise’l Joe is retiring.
I’ve known Chief Joe for the entirety of my years with NCC, both as a fellow Indigenous leader and someone I am honoured to call a friend. Having been at many meetings with him, learning about his people’s struggle for recognition, experiencing the type of strong and respectful leadership he provided, Chief Joe has been a mentor. He is a man deeply connected and grounded in his culture and his community. He is a teacher, a traditional knowledge keeper and a source of strength, support and guidance to many. Chief Joe has always been an friend and supporter of our people and he has treated us with openness and respect. For that, we are immeasurably grateful.
Chief Joe has also been a fierce advocate for his community and, indeed, for all Indigenous peoples across Newfoundland and Labrador. I am sure that he will continue to be a strong voice in his role as Saqamaw (Traditional Chief) and Keptin of the Grand Council. I hope our paths will continue to meet and that we can stay in touch.
On behalf of the NunatuKavut Community Council and our Governing Council, I wish Chief Mise’l all the best on the next part of his journey. We also congratulate and look forward to working with the interim Chief and his Council.”
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NCC Media Contact:
Kelly Broomfield
Chief Communications Officer
T. 709-280-5965
E. communications@nunatukavut.ca