Content Warning: This release discusses the death of a First Nation woman and references systemic racism in healthcare. (March 25, 2026 – Toronto, Ont.) As the coroner’s inquest into the death of Heather Winterstein approaches, Chiefs of Ontario stands in solidarity with her family and Six Nations of the Grand River. Heather Winterstein was a
(Toronto, Ont. – March 23, 2026) For World Water Day, First Nations leaders in the Ontario region are calling on the federal government to fulfill its commitment to reintroduce Bill C-61, the First Nations Clean Water Act, and address ongoing drinking water advisories in First Nations communities. A 2025 Auditor General report rated Indigenous Services
March 3, 2026 - The Chiefs of Ontario (COO) and Nishnawbe Aski Nation (NAN) have concluded oral submissions before the Canadian Human Rights Tribunal (CHRT) regarding the Ontario Final Agreement (OFA) Approval Motion, with final hearings held February 26-27, 2026. While these historic hearings have concluded, the CHRT is expected to release its decision in
(Toronto – Ont. Feb. 23, 2026) – The Chiefs of Ontario is calling on the federal and provincial governments to take steps to improve safety along critical northern highways following a several recent deadly collisions. On January 31, 2026, a collision on Highway 11 west of Hearst tragically claimed the lives of Darrel (Jackboy) Taylor,
Please find attached the Winter 2026 edition of the COO Women’s Initiatives Newsletter for your information and reading. In this edition, you will find updates on the First Nations Women's Council, the COO Calls for Justice Report Card, the First Nations Intimate Partner Violence Toolkit: Safety Assessment and Risk Management, contributions to the Pathways to
The Chiefs of Ontario Women’s Initiatives sector is seeking proposals for the design and development of two online training (e-learning) modules. The modules will provide a supplementary learning aid to facilitate access to a First Nations toolkit on safety and risk in intimate partner relationships. The successful proponent will work collaboratively with the Chiefs of
Content Warning: A national Indian Residential School Crisis Line is available to provide support for Survivors and those affected. People can access emotional and crisis referral services by calling the 24-hour service at 1-866-925-4419. More resources are available through the Indian Residential Schools Resolution Health Support Program. (Toronto – Ont. Dec 16, 2025) On the
(Toronto – Ont, Dec. 15, 2025) Ontario Regional Chief Abram Benedict has released the following statement following Robinson Huron Waawiindamaagewin’s (Un)Making of Metis Claims in Ontario conference held in Sault Ste. Marie on December 13-14, 2025: The Chiefs of Ontario affirm our support for the (Un)Making of Metis Claims in Ontario conference held in Baawaating
(Toronto, Ont.–Dec. 10, 2025) The Chiefs of Ontario has released the following statement regarding the provincial government’s recent proposal to remove the requirement for mining companies to get permits to use water in early exploration phases: “We’re deeply concerned with the approach that this government is taking in response to economic threats from abroad,” said
(Toronto, Ont.–Dec. 9, 2025) The Federal Court handed down two decisions on Friday that make clear the federal government has a fiduciary and legal duty to provide safe drinking water and adequate housing to First Nations. The decisions are related to two class action lawsuits, one about drinking water launched by Shamattawa First Nation and
