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Video: Curt Gagnon was passionate about protecting nature, treaty rights

Jan 06, 2021 06:20AM ● By Editor

Watch the WDIO-TV Report here

Photo: Beth Drost

From WDIO-TV - January 5, 2020

Right before Christmas, the family of Curt Gagnon said goodbye to him. "The traditional services were the start of healing, and his journey into the spirit world," Beth Drost, his daughter, recalled.

The Grand Portage man made a big impact on his community and his band and Indian Country in general. He loved to hunt and fish. And it was after a moose hunt, that he became a big advocate for treaty rights. "My dad had a big effect, because he was brave enough to step out and be honorable, and someone who told the truth," Drost said.

It was a battle, and not an easy one for the family. Eventually, they settled with the state of Minnesota. But leaders in the band said the case made headway. "My dad didn't really want to settle. But in the end we do get to hunt and fish in ceded territory, because of him, but there are limitations on the rights we have."

He also supported his community in other ways. He worked on trail use and tribal trust land administration. And he helped the public enjoy the land at the park. "He was the first Grand Portage band member to be the manager at Grand Portage State Park, and that was something he was really proud of."

Gagnon was also a Vietnam veteran who enjoyed helping other veterans. "He supported them, and talked to them if they were struggling. He'd take them hunting."

Those are memories they will have to rely on, as they learn to live with his loss.

Gagnon was 71-years-old.


To see the original report and read related articles, follow this link to the WDIO-Tv website.  https://www.wdio.com/news/curt-gagnon-treaty-rights-grand-portage-band-member/5969324/?cat=10335

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