Environment Office Celebrates the Life of David McLaren
The Environment Office of the Saugeen Ojibway Nation was saddened to learn of the passing of David McLaren. David was instrumental in the formation of the Environment Office in 2004, and spent many of the early years at its helm helping to draft and sculpt its mission of advancing and protecting the rights and interests of the Saugeen Ojibway Nation (SON). The Environment Office, and its work, is indeed just one part of David’s enduring legacy, one which will surely continue to benefit the Saugeen Ojibway Nation for many generations to come.
Together with the Chippewas of Nawash Unceded First Nation and the Chippewas of Saugeen First Nation, David made substantial contributions in the struggle for Indigenous rights and sovereignty. David was known as an outspoken advocate, not only for the Environment Office, but for the Saugeen Ojibway Nation, and all of the Indigenous Peoples across Turtle Island. Importantly, David McLaren offered more than just words, he consistently showed up. He played an active role in SON's ongoing fight for sovereignty and rights recognition, including his participation in documenting and amplifying SON voices during the Fish Wars of the 1990s which led to the recognition of SON’s right to fish commercially in the R. v. Jones-Nadjiwon, 1993 decision. David embodied a wealth of knowledge and history, and was indeed a true ally in every sense of the word – he will be greatly missed, but not soon forgotten.
We here at the Environment Office, wish to sincerely thank David McLaren for his years of service to this office, the Saugeen Ojibway Nation, and for the support he has generously offered all of us through the years – chi Miigwech. David, we wish you well as you begin your journey into the spirit world.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to all of David’s family and friends who are feeling this loss and celebrating his life. We would like to thank you for allowing us to share in David’s time here, and benefit from all his incredible accomplishments. We strive to live up to David’s vision for this office, and to continue to honour his legacy as we forge ahead in our work for the Saugeen Ojibway Nation.
