Distinguished NAN leader passes

A long legacy of service, leadership and dedication to the people of Nishnawbe Aski Nation (NAN) is being commemorated after the passing of one of NAN’s most prominent and well-respected Elders.
Frank Beardy of Muskrat Dam First Nation passed away June 13 after a lengthy illness.
“It is with heavy hearts that we mourn the loss of this great friend and distinguished leader and our thoughts and prayers are with his family and the Muskrat Dam community,” said NAN Grand Chief Harvey Yesno. “Frank’s commitment to the development of our Nation is unparalleled and his selfless contributions are immeasurable. His loss will be felt by all the lives he touched in such meaningful ways throughout his life and work.”
Beardy was instrumental throughout his life as a leader in the NAN territory, including helping with Tribal Council development, as well as serving as a force behind the creation of many initiatives including Oshki-Pimache-O-Win Education and Training Institute, Nishnawbe Aski Development Fund, Nishnawbe Aski Police Services and the Northern Nishnawbe Education Council.
He served as chief of Muskrat Dam for three terms, as NAN deputy grand chief in 1982 and NAN grand chief in 1983.
Beardy first made his mark in the 1970s when he encouraged ‘pirate’ radio stations in First Nations communities who were being denied broadcasting licenses. That initiative eventually led to the development of Wawatay Native Communications Society.
Mike Metatawabin, president of Wawatay’s board of directors, noted that without Beardy’s contribution Wawatay would not be where it is today.
“On behalf of the staff and board of directors at WNCS, we extend our condolences to the family of Frank Beardy,” Metatawabin said. “He will be remembered forever in the hearts and minds of those he served unconditionally throughout the territory of NAN. Our prayers go out to the family and the community of Muskrat Dam.”
Beardy never left politics, as he served as an active member of the NAN Elder’s Council until his death.
In a press release, NAN acknowledged the strength of Beardy’s leadership style which was rooted in the values and principles he learned and shared over his many years:
“Be respectful, patient, and aggressive when you have to be, not to be afraid and not to stand down on an issue.”
Yesno who presented Beardy with a headdress at his Muskrat Dam home last year, said the lessons Beardy has shared throughout his life will live on.
“Even when Frank was not serving in an official capacity he was always willing to take on a leadership role,” Yesno said. “He taught by example that the mantle of leadership does not change just because your work is done.
“As leaders we give thanks for his life of friendship and guidance and we pray for the strength to honour his legacy as we continue his work to improve the quality of life for NAN First Nations,” Yesno added.
Ontario Regional Chief Stan Beardy said Frank Beardy’s life has blazed a path that NAN people will follow in the years ahead.
“Frank was a committed and tireless advocate for our people,” Stan Beardy said. “His life’s work involved improving the quality of life for the citizens of the Nishnawbe-Aski Nation.”