MISHKEEGOGAMANG FIRST NATION, Ont.— More than three decades ago, the late Anglican Archbishop Desmond Tutu helped bring the plight of Canada's Indigenous peoples to the attention of the world.
The Nobel Peace Prize-winning anti-Apartheid leader died in South Africa over the weekend at the age of 90.
In August 1990, he and his wife spent two days in the Ojibway community of New Osnaburgh, part of what is now known as Mishkeegogamang First Nation.
It's about 320 km northwest of Thunder Bay, near Pickle Lake.
Tutu's visit was covered by international media organizations.
The archbishop was clearly moved by the poverty and unemployment on the reserve, describing the living conditions as similar to those that affected his fellow Blacks in South Africa.
He said he would urge the Canadian government to do more for its Indigenous population.
Tutu at one point led the residents of New Osnaburgh in an inspirational chant, "We will be free."
Kenora Miner & News reporter Reg Clayton was among the regional journalists who covered the archbishop's visit.
Clayton recalled years later how his "gentle humour, keen insights into race relations and wise words made a lasting impression" on him.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau says the world has lost one of its strongest moral voices.
He also noted Tutu's visit to Canada, saying it was part of the archbishop's efforts to support the country's ongoing journey of truth and reconciliation with its Indigenous peoples.
Ontario Premier Doug Ford said the world has lost a true champion, adding that Tutu's work to fight inequity everywhere has helped make life better for many people.
