Chief of the Nipissing First Nation asks for his headdress back

The headdress took more than two years of research to be made in the respect of traditions.

The ceremonial headdress of Chief Scott McLeod of the Nipissing First Nation was stolen Saturday morning. She was inside her vehicle which was stolen while it was parked at a hotel in Mississauga.

The chief is in town with other members of his community on the occasion of a hockey tournament, the Little Native Hockey League tournament.

In a press release published on Saturday, the chief asks for his headdress to be returned to him and he stresses his concern that this important artifact will be lost.

I ask those responsible for this theft to find in themselves the kindness to return the headdress, this can be done anonymously, at the Sandman Signature Hotel Mississauga, or in one of the arenas where the tournament is being held, writes the chef.

The First Nation says the headdress was reconstructed after more than two years of research by elders, researchers, historians and geographers.

The beadwork represents the role of the gems in supporting the chief who wears the ceremonial headdress. The seven eagle feathers symbolize the chief's commitment to lead responsibly by following the seven teachings of the elders, the statement explains.

Nipissing First Nation is located on the shores of the Lake Nipissing, about 100 kilometers east of Sudbury.

Peel Regional Police say law enforcement recognizes the significance of the headdress and the consequences of its loss.

She specifies that she is investigating without omitting any case and asks for the help of anyone who may have information.

The hockey tournament runs until March 16.