(Toronto, Ont.–Feb. 26, 2025) Ontario Regional Chief Abram Benedict congratulates Francis Verreault-Paul on his election as the Regional Chief for the Assembly of First Nations of Quebec and Labrador (AFNQL). His election marks a significant moment as he takes on the critical role of representing the voices and interests of First Nations communities within the
Warning: This statement discusses human trafficking, exploitation, and related issues, which may be distressing to some readers. Mental health counselling and crisis support are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week through the Hope for Wellness hotline at 1-855-242-3310 or by online chat. (Toronto, Ont. – February 22, 2025) The Ontario First Nations
Chiefs of Ontario Seek Party Status in Landmark Ontario Land Tribunal Case (Toronto, Ont.–February 20, 2025) The Chiefs of Ontario (COO) have succeeded in its motion for party status at the Ontario Land Tribunal (OLT) in the ongoing Springwater Township v. Galibier Materials case. This critical intervention will allow COO to address long-standing concerns regarding
You are invited to submit a proposal to support the Ontario Chiefs' project to develop a high-level, professionally made 15-20-minute video that captures First Nation Youth learning about Species at Risk infused with First Nation Culture and Spirituality in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario. Preference will be given to an Indigenous-owned and operated production company. Submission
You are invited to submit a proposal for Analysis and Options regarding the Canada Water Act First Nations in Ontario have an inherent responsibility to preserve and protect water, not as a commodity or economic driver, but as a living, life-providing entity. These responsibilities were established prior to contact with settler governments and form the
You are invited to submit a proposal for Pre-engagement on the Canada Water Act First Nations in Ontario have an inherent responsibility to preserve and protect water, not as a commodity or economic driver, but as a living, life-providing entity. These responsibilities were established prior to contact with settler governments and form the foundation of
(Caldwell First Nation, Ont.–Feb. 5, 2025) The Chiefs of Ontario and Caldwell First Nation have issued the following joint press release: More than 100 representatives from organizations and First Nations across southern Ontario gathered in Windsor to discuss the repatriation of Ancestors and sacred items that are currently in the care of the provincial government
Warning: This statement contains details of experiences at residential schools. (Toronto, Ont.–Jan. 28, 2025) Ontario Regional Chief Abram Benedict has issued the following statement on the recent potential discovery of 144 unmarked graves at a former residential school near Asubpeeschoseewagong Netum Anishinabek (Grassy Narrows First Nation): “This month, the Wiikwogaming Tiinahtiisiiwin Project Team, also known as
(Toronto, Ont.–Jan. 24, 2025) Ontario Regional Chief Abram Benedict has issued the following statement on the relationship between Canada and the United States: “I wish to congratulate President Donald Trump on his recent election and inauguration. I also want to make clear to his government, all levels of Canadian governments, and to Ontario First Nations
Statement from Chiefs of Ontario and Nishnawbe Aski Nation regarding Caring Society Motion at the CHRT January 16, 2025 - Ontario Regional Chief Abram Benedict and Nishnawbe Aski Nation Grand Chief Alvin Fiddler have issued the following statement following interference by the First Nations Child and Family Caring Society at the Canadian Human Rights Tribunal
