Sinclair seeks MAA presidency

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Out of the chaotic atmosphere that surrounds Native politics in Alberta has emerged some old and new faces ready to breathe life back into the system.

With complaints mounting against both of Alberta's leading Native political offices, there's a need to rejuvenate a fading vision for aboriginal rights.

The Indian Association of Alberta (IAA) and the Metis Association of Alberta (MAA) are both in need of restructuring.

Treaty 8 Indian chiefs and southern Alberta Metis leaders have broken away from their respective organizations claiming their interest were not being properly addressed.

The IAA has elected a new president in hopes of putting its affairs back on track.

Regena Crowchild jumped into the political fray with clear goals of maintaining traditional beliefs throughout the entire province. Since being elected at the annual assembly last month, she has set an agenda of change to bring back the dissatisfied masses who've lost their enthusiasm.

But what about the MAA? Former Metis president Sam Sinclair insists he has the answers.

He's set his sights on the MAA presidency up for grabs the last week of August.

He, too, says Alberta's top political offices have grown out of touch from the average Native person - those who need them the most.

"It's time to do something about it," he declares.

Sinclair, who has been a driven force in the MAA for 20 years, stepped down as president in 1987 to help with Metis economic development projects. He suggests that may have been a mistake.

"Through the encouragement and support of many Metis communities I am seeking to bring the Metis association back to the people," he said.