Publisher's Synopsis
Growing up on the far corners of the furthest reaches of the Vernon reserve, little did Len Marchand - or anyone around him - realize that he would end up spending most of his life in Ottawa. The first elected aboriginal member of parliament in all of Canada, Len Marchand was involved in some of the most exciting, heady days of Canadian politics. Not only was he the first elected native person, he went on to serve as the minister of various portfolios, perhaps his favourite beingthe Ministry of Environment. Here he was able to use his background and education to affect one of the most sensitive issues of the 20th century, the environment.
This is Len's story, and it is a story of courage and hope that should inspire us all. Len Marchand grew up in a society that said people of his background couldn't vote, couldn't buy liquor, couldn't do much of anything without the approval of the Department of Indian Affairs. Yet he overcame all odds and served Canada - this country which relegated his people to second class - faithfully, first as member of parliament and then as senator.
His collaborator, Matt Hughes, is no stranger to politics, having worked as a speech writer on both the provincial and federal level. He has written several books and currently is under contract with Warner Aspect of New York for two thrillers, one of which is completed.
