OHSWEKEN ‑ The life and legacy of the late Wellington Staats, former Elected Chief and Chair of the Six Nations Police Commission, was honoured at a dedication held at the local police station on October 17.
“Wellington Staats was deeply committed to serving our community, especially our youth,” said Six Nations Chief Ava Hill. “Everything he did, both as a chief of council and as a chair of our police commission, was done with love and with a vision of making things better for our people. It’s only fitting that our police station be dedicated to his memory.”
As the Elected Chief from 1980 to 1986 and again from 1995 to 2001, Chief Staats oversaw key infrastructure and economic development projects, including building a bridge over the Grand River, and helping Six Nations launch its’ own police force. Through his commitment to enhancing the Six Nations police service, Chief Staats fought for the establishment of an improved station, which became a reality in 2011. “It was an honour and a privilege to have worked alongside Staats,” said Six Nations Police Chief Glenn Lickers. “He led with dignity and played a vital role in transforming our police force into the strong, accomplished law enforcement body that it is today. Dedicating the station in his name is a demonstration of our tremendous gratitude for his service.” Wellington Staats was respected by all who knew him. He passed away on January 14, 2014 at the age of 81, leaving behind a legacy that we can all be proud of.
