Chiefs of Ontario supports all First Nations in Ontario as they assert their sovereignty, jurisdiction, and their chosen expression of nationhood.
Guided by the Chiefs-in-Assembly, we uphold self-determination efforts of the Anishinaabek, Mushkegowuk, Onkwehonwe, and Lenape Peoples in protecting and exercising their inherent and Treaty rights. Keeping in mind the wisdom of our Elders, and the future for our youth, we continue to create the path forward in building our Nations as strong, healthy Peoples respectful of ourselves, each other, and all creation. The activities of the Chiefs of Ontario are mandated through and guided by:
- Resolutions passed by the Chiefs in Assembly of the 133 First Nations in Ontario.
- The Leadership Council (formerly known as the Political Confederacy) made up of the Grand Chiefs of Political Territorial Organizations (PTOs) and Independent First Nations.
- The elected Regional Chief for the Chiefs of Ontario.
Chiefs of Ontario Charter
The Chiefs in Ontario affirm that the First Nations possess the inherent right of self-determination. This is the defining measure of nationhood. It is the responsibility of individual First Nation governments to exercise this jurisdiction through the passage of laws, development of program and other initiatives.
The Chiefs of Ontario shall support First Nations in the exercise of their inherent right.
The international Treaties entered into by First Nations shall be respected. This includes Treaties entered into before first contact with the European settlers, and Treaties entered into after first contact. The Treaties are the foundation of a harmonious relationship between First Nations and Canadian governments.
There is a sacred trust and fiduciary relationship between First Nations and the Crown in right of Canada.
Our Mission
The Chiefs of Ontario supports all First Nations in Ontario as they assert their sovereignty, jurisdiction, and their chosen expression of nationhood.
Our Vision
First Nations in Ontario are united towards self-sufficiency and vibrancy while never forgetting who we are; this unity is facilitated through the Chiefs of Ontario. We envision a future where our inherent laws, lands, and traditions are recognized and respected by governments, industry and the general public.
THE LATEST FROM CHIEFS OF ONTARIO
Media Releases
Media Advisory – Chiefs of Ontario to Host 2nd Annual First Nations Community Wellness Conference
(Toronto, ON – August 14, 2025) The Chiefs of Ontario invite media to attend a special media event during the 2nd
New report reinforces utter lack of historical evidence of Métis in Ontario region
(Toronto, Ont.–July 30, 2025) There is no documented evidence of a Métis presence in the territory of six First Nations represented
Chiefs of Ontario Urge Federal Government to Prioritize First Nations Rights, Infrastructure and Partnership
(Toronto, Ont. –July 22, 2025) Ontario First Nations Leadership joined Leadership from across the country last week for a two-day national
Chiefs of Ontario call on healing for residential survivors and their communities not to be forgotten amidst push for economic projects
(Toronto, Ont.—July 3, 2025) — The Chiefs of Ontario (COO) have adopted a resolution at the 2025 Annual Chiefs Assembly, calling