(Toronto, Ont.–July 2, 2026) Chiefs of Ontario stands with Kashechewan First Nation and its citizens in Niagara Falls after insulting comments were made about evacuees in the area.
“Many First Nations in the north are forced to evacuate their homes and communities every year due to wildfires, floods and failing infrastructure. When this happens, families are placed under extreme stress and duress, and they deserve to be welcomed with dignity, not discriminatory and stereotypical remarks,” said Ontario Regional Chief Abram Benedict.
“That is why we proudly support the Solidarity Walk for Kashechewan First Nation on July 3, 2026, in Niagara Falls. The walk will take place from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM, beginning at Tim Hortons (located at 4835 Victoria Avenue) and ending at Niagara Falls City Hall. I encourage everyone in the region to join, listen, and stand with these families as they call for respect and understanding.”
Kashechewan was forced to declare a state of emergency in January after its aging water infrastructure failed and its nursing station flooded with raw sewage.
“Kashechewan was forced to evacuate because of shoddy, old water infrastructure that failed. Try to imagine not going home for six months for something that is completely out of your control, only to be made to feel unwelcome in an unfamiliar area while you wait to return home,” said Anishinabek Nation Grand Council Chief Linda Debassige. “I don’t think any Canadian in the same situation would accept it. So why should First Nations? This whole situation could have been avoided if Canada upheld their fiduciary responsibility and proper investments were made.”
The failure of Kashechewan’s water infrastructure rendered the community’s only health-care facility unsafe and unusable.
“For six months, Kashechewan members have been unable to go home, and they continue to contribute to Niagara’s economy even as they endure this hardship. To be denigrated in return is shameful,” said Regional Chief Benedict. “The real conversation we must have is how to ensure no other First Nation is forced from its home because critical infrastructure has failed. That means long-term solutions and proper federal investment in clean water, safe housing, and reliable services for Kashechewan and First Nations communities across this country. We call on all levels of government to move beyond temporary fixes and commit to permanent change, so that families can live safely on their own lands.”
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The Chiefs of Ontario supports all First Nations in Ontario as they assert their sovereignty, jurisdiction, and their chosen expression of nationhood. Follow Chiefs of Ontario on Facebook, X, Instagram, or LinkedIn @ChiefsOfOntario.
Media Contact:
Isak Vaillancourt
Communications Manager
Chiefs of Ontario
Telephone: 416-819-8184
