“Lead by example,” are the words that come to mind.

During a news conference last week to discuss the priorities for the 2015 federal election campaign as they relate to First Nations people, National Chief Perry Bellegarde revealed he would not vote in the federal election because he wanted to remain non-partisan.

National Chief Bellegarde has been advocating for First Nations to vote throughout the country. As well, the AFN has been providing information about why voting is essential, and the new identification requirements which are in place this year.

Last week, after listening to First Nations Elders, leaders, citizens and young people from across the country, National Chief Bellegarde has reassessed his “long-standing belief.” In a statement issued earlier today, Bellegarde now says he will vote in the federal election on October 19.

“On October 19th, I will vote in this federal election in support of a government committed to closing the gap between First Nations people and Canadians. I continue to encourage all First Nations people to vote,” says Bellegarde.