Press Release
For immediate release

Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal awarded to the President/CEO of Aanischaaukamikw Cree Cultural Institute

The Canadian Museums Association awards Dianne Ottereyes Reid, President/CEO of Aanischaaukamikw (ACCI) Cree Cultural Institute, the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal from the Governor General of Canada in recognition of her exceptional contributions to Canadian Culture and Heritage.

Her relentless work for the preservation of Cree Cultural Heritage with the guidance of her Elders of the Cree Nation of Eeyou Istchee has not only created a visionary place for historical objects, safeguarding of the language and history, but also, a showcase of Cree Culture for the world to see.

Dianne stresses the importance of being guided by the visionary eye of experience from those who understand traditional structures and how to interpret them into reality. The awesome architecture of Aanischaaukamikw has stirred many people from their visit to the first exhibition of Cree artifacts.

Grand Chief Dr. Matthew Coon Come sent his congratulations. “As Grand Chief, and one who has worked with you, I can say, there is no other Cree more deserving of this prestigious award. Indeed, your hard work, determination and willingness to work closely with our Elders and past Leaders have paid off.”

The medal will be awarded at the Canadian Museum Association’s Annual Conference Awards Banquet in Gatineau, Wednesday April 25 2012.

Contact:

Nian Matoush, Communications Officer:
Phone: (418) 770-7659 & E-mail: nian.matoush@creeculture.ca

Dianne Reid: hemera_musique@yahoo.fr