Chippewa host native entrepreneurs
in attempt to forge ties with U.S

North America's original free traders have re-established some ancient ties at the Aamjiwnaang First Nation.

The former Chippewa of Sarnia hosted a 14-member delegation from the Native American Business Alliance on Thursday, a first step in forging business ties with native entrepreneurs south of the border.

Among the visitors was a group from the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma, who is exploring a joint venture with Aamjiwnaang.

"It's not a done deal but it's in the works. It's getting close," said NABA vice-president Paul Bresette, a Detroit-area resident."Our purpose is to work with the First Nation here and find partners in the U.S. to bring business to their industrial park, or promote their products in the U.S."

Chief Phil Maness said Aamjiwnaang's proximity to the border and its bustling industrial park can help it establish links with corporate America.

Among those who toured the Chippewa industrial park and took part in a traditional feast at the community centre were delegates from Ford, General Motors and UPS.

Drummers, dancers and a "kinship" ceremony capped the busy day.

Another company looking to locate in Sarnia is Michigan-based Rush Trucking. As an auto sector supplier operating in 48 U.S. states and partsof Mexico, Rush believes this area is perfect for expansion, said John Rush, whose daughter Andra founded the company.

Thursday's activities build on a 1999 co-operation agreement signed by the Assembly of First Nations in Canada and the National Congress of American Indians.

Tribal trading networks were well established before the creation of a border between the two countries, a line that many natives still don't recognize.

Chief Maness said Aamjiwnaang has undergone a social and economic rebirth in recent years, and is now going out and promoting itself in the wider world.

"We're quite proud of that," he said.


Reprint from Sarnia Observer Friday, May 25, 2001

click to enlarge images