(Toronto, ON, November 22, 2020) Today, the Chiefs of Ontario and Ontario Regional Chief, RoseAnne Archibald, are calling for action on National Housing Day and reminding the provincial and federal governments of their fiduciary responsibility to be active partners with First Nations by addressing and investing in issues such as infrastructure and sustainable housing to ensure collective prosperity.

“Each year, communities across Canada gather annually to observe National Housing Day and to raise awareness about the importance of access to affordable and equitable housing. Today, I am calling on Ontario and Canada to honour their fiduciary responsibility to be partners with First Nations by addressing and providing critical investments in water, infrastructure and sustainable housing for our communities,” said Ontario Regional Chief RoseAnne Archibald.

“Due to the substandard living conditions First Nations are faced with, such as underfunding for housing, water infrastructure, education, and other services, the COVID-19 pandemic has only further impacted and exposed their daily challenges. Lack of access to basic human needs like shelter to stay home or clean water to wash your hands has severely impacted First Nations’ health and well-being.

We know that access to culturally connected, sustainable and equitable housing is the foundation for vibrant First Nations communities in both urban and rural areas of Canada and remains a positive determinant of health and mental well-being, education, economic development, and sustainability. While this pandemic has had a devastating impact on all, it has also created a space for us to examine these issues and find opportunities to make positive change.

I’m asking for a clear action plan on housing and look forward to working collaboratively towards permanent, safe, appropriate and sustainable housing for our communities.”

Ontario Regional Chief, RoseAnne Archibald

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The Chiefs of Ontario is a political forum and a secretariat for collective decision making, action, and advocacy for the 133 First Nation communities located within the boundaries of the province of Ontario, Canada. Follow Chiefs of Ontario on Facebook or Twitter @ChiefsOfOntario.

Chiefs of Ontario – Media Contact:
Genna Benson
Communications Officer
Telephone: 416-523-4020
Email: Genna.Benson@coo.org

Political Office – Media Contact:
Felecia White
Communications Officer
Office of the Ontario Regional Chief
ORC.Comms@coo.org