(Toronto, Ont. – April 14, 2025) The Chiefs of Ontario are raising concerns about the Ford government’s proposed legislation to fast-track mining development by designating “regions of economic and security interest.” First Nations across Ontario support economic reconciliation and recognize the role that responsible resource development can play in strengthening local and regional economies amid
(Toronto, Ont.–April 4, 2025) The Chiefs of Ontario have issued the following statement on the release of the long-delayed expert panel’s report into Métis Nation of Ontario communities: “This new Métis National Council (MNC) report into the validity of Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) communities does not change the positions of either First Nations Leadership
(Toronto, Ont.–March 19, 2025) Ontario Regional Chief Abram Benedict has released a statement in response to remarks provided earlier today by Conservative Party of Canada Leader Pierre Poilievre that, if elected, his government will “unlock” the Ring of Fire region in Northern Ontario by green lighting all federal permits within six months. This morning during
(Toronto, Ont. – March 18, 2025) As the likelihood of an imminent 2025 federal election increases, the Chiefs of Ontario are calling on federal leaders to prioritize policies that honour First Nations rights and foster collaborative solutions grounded in the spirit of reconciliation. “Ontario is home to the largest First Nations population in Canada. The
(Toronto, Ont. – Mar. 5, 2025) Ontario Regional Chief Abram Benedict and Nishnawbe Aski Nation Grand Chief Alvin Fiddler have issued the following statement regarding recently imposed tariffs on Canadian products: “The Chiefs of Ontario and Nishnawbe Aski Nation express our deep concerns regarding the recent announcement of tariffs imposed by the United States on
(Toronto, Ont.–Feb. 28, 2025) Ontario Regional Chief Abram Benedict has issued the following statement following Ontario’s 2025 election: “Yesterday, Ontarians cast their ballots and elected Doug Ford as premier for the third time. I congratulate Premier Ford on his win and look forward to our continued work together. Now is a time for us to
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
