Sam George (activist) facts for kids
Maynard Donald "Sam" George OOnt (born July 1, 1952 – died June 3, 2009) was a Canadian activist who worked for native rights. His brother, Dudley George, was killed during a difficult situation with the Ontario Provincial Police at a place called Ipperwash. Sam George played a very important part in asking for a special investigation, known as the Ipperwash Inquiry, to find out exactly what happened there.
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Who Was Sam George?
Sam George was born in Windsor, Ontario. He was the fifth of ten children born to Reginald George and Genevieve Rogers. Both of his parents served in the Canadian military during World War II. In 1942, the Canadian government made his parents leave their home on the Stoney Point Reserve.
Early Life and Work
Sam George learned how to be a carpenter. Later, he worked as a youth counsellor for the Kettle and Stony Point First Nation. He helped young people in his community. He also enjoyed coaching amateur hockey teams.
Fighting for Justice
Sam George was very dedicated to getting justice for his brother and his community. The events at Ipperwash were very important to him. He worked hard to make sure a full investigation happened. This investigation helped to explain what took place during the Ipperwash Crisis.
Honored for His Work
In 2008, Sam George was given a special award called the Order of Ontario. This award is one of the highest honors in Ontario. When he received the award, Ontario's Lieutenant-Governor said that Sam George was "steadfast in his quest for justice." This means he never gave up trying to find out the truth for his brother and his community. The Lieutenant-Governor also said he was an "inspiration to all Ontarians."
Land Returned to First Nation
On May 28, 2009, something important happened. The land that used to be Ipperwash Provincial Park was given back. It was returned to the Kettle and Stony Point First Nation. This was a big step for the community.
Sam George's Passing
Sam George passed away on June 3, 2009. He was 56 years old. He died from pancreatic and lung cancer. He passed away on the Kettle Point reserve. This reserve is near Sarnia, Ontario.
