Jodie Ashini has been elected as the new Grand Chief of the Innu Nation [1].
The election marks a transition in leadership for the Innu people in Labrador, establishing a new governing body to oversee the nation's affairs.
Ashini assumed the role after an overnight vote count that concluded on Saturday, Aug. 10, 2024 [1]. Along with the Grand Chief, the election process determined a new Deputy Grand Chief, and a new board of directors to serve the community [1, 2].
The voting process was part of a regular election cycle intended to select the leadership responsible for representing the Innu Nation [1]. This administrative shift ensures the continuity of governance and the representation of the people's interests in Labrador.
Following the announcement of the results, Ashini addressed the community regarding the commitment to the new role.
"I will work my hardest to serve the Innu Nation and its people," Ashini said [1].
The newly elected board and deputy leadership will work alongside Ashini to implement the goals of the Innu Nation. The leadership team is tasked with managing the internal and external relations of the community as they navigate the specific challenges facing the region.
“"I will work my hardest to serve the Innu Nation and its people,"”
The election of Jodie Ashini and a new board of directors provides the Innu Nation with a fresh mandate for governance. This leadership change is critical for the Innu people in Labrador as they manage land rights, community services, and political relations with provincial and federal governments.
