Daniel Ashini 1959-2009

I first met Daniel Ashini about 20 years ago when I went to Sheshatshiu, Labrador to photograph him when he won a major international environmental award. Like most people, I had little knowledge of the Innu or their story. Since then our paths crossed a number of times either in St. John's or somewhere in Labrador as he carried on his work to improve the social, economic, environmental and political conditions for the Innu people. He was always a patient and gracious host and opened many doors for me in the Innu communities of Labrador.

An afternoon with Daniel, either walking through Sheshatshiu, at a protest camp on a logging road or  in the country and you could not help but come away with a clear understanding of the plight of the Innu in Labrador stripped clear of politics and ignorance.

He died on Monday in Happy Valley – Goose Bay, Labrador.