February 26, 2025 - In a display of unity, Chiefs of Ontario (COO) and Nishnawbe Aski Nation (NAN) leadership voted by nearly-unanimous resolution to ratify the $8.5 billion Ontario Final Agreement on the Long-Term Reform of the First Nations Child and Family Services (FNCFS) Program. During today’s COO Special Chiefs Assembly (SCA), 76 chiefs and
(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
(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
(Toronto, Ont. – January, 8, 2025) Ontario Regional Chief Abram Benedict has issued the following statement on the Prime Minister's resignation and future priorities for First Nations in Ontario: “On behalf of the Chiefs of Ontario, I would like to thank the Prime Minister for his public service. His commitment to advancing reconciliation has helped
(Toronto, Ont.–Dec. 13, 2024) Ontario Reginal Chief Abram Benedict has issued the following statement on the Nishnawbe Aski Police Service agreement with Ontario: “Earlier this week, the Nishnawbe Aski Police Service (NAPS) announced that they have come to an agreement with the province to bring the service into the provincial policing framework. I congratulate NAPS—the
(Toronto, Ont.–Dec. 13, 2024) Ontario Regional Chief Benedict has issued the following statement in response to Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Minister Gary Anandasangaree confirming that Bill C-53 will not move forward during the meeting of the Standing Committee on Indigenous and Northern Affairs (INAN) on Monday, December 9, 2024: “The Chiefs of Ontario have
You are invited to submit a proposal for Strategic Planning Services for the Chiefs of Ontario and Chiefs of Ontario Leadership Council. The Chiefs of Ontario are seeking proposals from qualified consultants to assist in developing a 5-year comprehensive strategic plan for the Chiefs of Ontario Leadership Council. This plan will integrate the individual strategic
(Thunder Bay, Ont.–Nov. 20, 2024) Ontario Regional Chief Abram Benedict and the Ontario First Nations Young Peoples Council (OFNYPC) have issued the following statement in recognition of Trans Day of Remembrance. “Today we remember the lives of transgender individuals who have been lost to violence and discrimination. This day is a reminder of the work we
Trigger warning: This press contains sensitive subject matter, including suicide and self-harm, that could be triggering for some readers. Resources are available below. (Toronto, Ont.–Nov. 12, 2024) The federal Non-Insured Health Benefits (NIHB) mental health program is harming First Nations people, according to another damning media report published last week by the Toronto Star and
(Toronto, Ont. – November 8, 2024) Ontario Regional Chief Abram Benedict issued the following statement in recognition of Indigenous Veterans Day, extending deep respect and gratitude to First Nations veterans and those currently serving: “On Indigenous Veterans Day, November 8, we honour the incredible courage, resilience, and sacrifice of First Nations veterans and active-duty service
