Pay tribute to First Nations leader George Manuel - political strategist and author - with this Official First Day Cover.

About the issue

This stamp is part of the second issue in the Indigenous Leaders series, which pays tribute to individuals who have made significant contributions to Canadian society and brought about positive and lasting changes in Canada. By highlighting the achievements of these modern-day First Nations, Inuit, and Métis leaders, the series celebrates their dedication to preserving their culture and improving the quality of life for Indigenous Peoples in Canada.

The cancel location for this issue is Chase, British Columbia, Canada, which is Manuel’s birthplace.

About George Manuel

First Nations leader George Manuel (1921-1989) was born on the Neskonlith Reserve near Chase, British Columbia, and attended the Kamloops Indian Residential School.

He served as National Chief of what is now the Assembly of First Nations from 1970 to 1976 and as the first president of both the World Council of Indigenous Peoples (WCIP) and the Union of British Columbia Indian Chiefs. Also a co-author of the influential book The Fourth World: An Indian Reality, he contributed significantly to the development of the WCIP's Universal Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.

Manuel fought the Canadian government’s policies of assimilation and organized the Constitution Express, a movement that resulted in the recognition and affirmation of existing Indigenous and treaty rights in the Constitution Act, 1982. His contributions earned international recognition, including three Nobel Peace Prize nominations and an appointment as an Officer of the Order of Canada.

George Manuel's enduring legacy continues to inspire generations, encouraging ongoing efforts to improve social, economic and political conditions for Indigenous Peoples worldwide.

About the design

The Official First Day Cover features the George Manuel stamp and a cancel mark of a beadwork flower, set against the backdrop of a photograph of him on Parliament Hill.

Product # 414226131

Indigenous Leaders – George Manuel: Official First Day Cover