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First Nations, Inuit and Red River Métis call for unity in fight against Indigenous identity fraud

First Nations, Inuit and Red River Métis call for unity in fight against Indigenous identity fraud

chiefsofontario2025-12-18T10:50:45-05:00

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Hosted by the Ontario First Nations 2S/LGBTQQIAPD+ Hosted by the Ontario First Nations 2S/LGBTQQIAPD+ Council and the Chiefs of Ontario Women's Initiatives Sector, we invite we invite Two Spirit/LGBTQQIAPD+ relatives to join us for the second learning series session, History and Importance of Drag in the Two Spirit/LGBTQQIAPD+ Community, with guest speaker Jordyn Angeconeb (she/her). This event is open only to First Nation members of the Two Spirit/LGBTQQIAPD+ community, and is a space for connection and networking between kin. Join us as we cover topics like the history and importance of drag for Two Spirit+ folks, the intersection of the Two Spirit+ community and the non-Indigenous queer community especially as it relates to drag, and share personal stories with drag. This is a space that welcomes questions from a place of curiosity and kindness — you can submit questions to be addressed in the session to Sarah.Whelan@coo.org. For more information, visit: https://www.chiefsmeeting.com/tsls-two-drag-history-importance Date: Friday May 29, 2026 Time: 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM ET Location: Virtual via MS Teams Who should attend: Only open to First Nation Two Spirit/LGBTQQIAPD+ relatives Registration: https://coo.smudging.ca:8443/Meeting/Register/48af0f37-44ab-4576-8b10-57c4abd9d038
📢The Chiefs of Ontario is sharing important update 📢The Chiefs of Ontario is sharing important updates and key dates as the First Nation Child and Family Services (FNCFS) Program in Ontario transitions from the current model to the full implementation of the Ontario Final Agreement (OFA) This milestone marks a shift toward First Nations-led child and family services through direct annual funding for prevention, post-majority support, and household relief. New administrative processes for capital projects and agency operations are also being rolled out to prioritize community-designed infrastructure and long-term stability. Stay informed about these critical deadlines, funding changes, and planning requirements by visiting the FNCFS Reform Implementation, link in bio
That’s a wrap on the Powering Up Data Sovereignty That’s a wrap on the Powering Up Data Sovereignty Conference! Today’s sessions explored the future of Artificial Intelligence (AI), First Nations data governance, and collaborative approaches to research and data access. A special thank you to Dr. Benjamin Wald for today’s keynote address, Shaping the Future of Artificial Intelligence (AI), which sparked important conversations on the opportunities, responsibilities, and impacts of AI for First Nations. We also extend our appreciation to Gordon Peters, Conference Emcee. We were honoured to hear from speakers, panelists, and Knowledge Keepers who shared insights, expertise, and vision for strengthening First Nations data sovereignty now and for future generations. Thank you to all attendees, presenters, organizers, vendors, and community members who joined us over the past three days. Safe travels to everyone heading home, and we look forward to continuing these discussions together. Conference materials will be uploaded to the event webpage: https://www.chiefsmeeting.com/poweringup2026
Day 2 of the Powering Up Data Sovereignty Conferen Day 2 of the Powering Up Data Sovereignty Conference continued with powerful conversations on First Nations data governance, OCAP®, Indigenous data sovereignty, health research, education equity, environmental protection, and youth-led perspectives on knowledge protection. Participants engaged in workshops, panel discussions, and cross-sector conversations focused on strengthening First Nations data systems and advancing self-determination through data governance. Highlights included keynote remarks from Dr. Jonathan Dewar on implementing the National First Nations Data Governance Strategy, discussions on the future of First Nations data sovereignty, and regional perspectives from the First Nations Regional Information Governance Centre Project Panel. We look forward to continuing these important discussions on Day 3 For more information, please visit: https://www.chiefsmeeting.com/poweringup2026
Day 1 of the Powering Up Data Sovereignty Conferen Day 1 of the Powering Up Data Sovereignty Conference brought together First Nations Leadership, Knowledge Keepers, researchers, and community advocates from across Ontario to advance conversations on data sovereignty, governance, and Nation-led approaches to research and information management. The day opened in a good way with an Opening Drum Song by the Akwesasne Men’s Singers, followed by welcoming remarks, territorial acknowledgements, and opening comments from leadership and staff. Participants heard a powerful keynote from Dr. Jennifer Walker on Nationhood Through Data Sovereignty, explored regional perspectives on implementation, and engaged in workshops focused on community-centred governance, research ethics, consent, health data, Indigenous laws, and protecting First Nations knowledge systems. The day closed with meaningful discussions on community-level initiatives being led by First Nations. We’re looking forward to continuing these important conversations throughout Days 2 and 3 of the conference. For more information, please visit: https://www.chiefsmeeting.com/poweringup2026 #PoweringUp2026
The Chiefs of Ontario Research & Data Management S The Chiefs of Ontario Research & Data Management Sector will host a one-hour webinar on May 19th from 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. regarding the Regional Information Governance Centre (RIGC) Project. This session will provide an overview of the project’s purpose, approach, and opportunities for First Nations involvement in strengthening data governance and advancing data sovereignty. Tamara Maracle, Southeast Area Lead, and Cody Thomas, Southwest Area Lead for the RIGC project, will share insights into the project team’s work, including its relationship-based approach to community engagement, and how information, knowledge, and data are understood within the project. Participants will also learn about next steps, including timelines, and how communities can begin engaging and contributing their knowledge to help shape the RIGC initiative. Date and Time: Tuesday, May 19, 2026 - 1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. ET Location: Online via Teams: Who Should Attend: First Nations Leadership and Technicians For more information, visit the assembly link in our bio.
Today, May 10, we honor Jordan River Anderson, a y Today, May 10, we honor Jordan River Anderson, a young boy from Norway House Cree Nation in Manitoba. Jordan was born with multiple disabilities and spent his life in the hospital while federal and provincial governments argued over who should pay for his care. Tragically, Jordan passed away in the hospital because of these government delays and jurisdictional disputes. In his memory, Jordan’s Principle was established. This legal order ensures that First Nations children receive the health, social, and educational supports they need without being caught in the middle of government disagreements. Today, we honor Jordan’s legacy by ensuring that the needs of First Nations children always come first. #JordansPrinciple #JordanRiverAnderson #FirstNationsChildren
The Chiefs of Ontario will host the 2026 Golf Tour The Chiefs of Ontario will host the 2026 Golf Tournament on June 15, 2026! The 2026 COO Golf Tournament coincides with the Annual Chiefs Assembly, hosted by the Chippewas of Rama First Nation. Each year, the goal of the tournament is to support initiatives in the host community. Time: Shot-gun start 12:30 PM Location: Bonaire Golf Club - 1699 Woodrow Road, Coldwater, ON. L0K1E0 $1000 team/$250 golfer For more information, contact Julie Hill at: COS.Julie@coo.org
The First Nations Employment Services Framework En The First Nations Employment Services Framework Engagement Session in Timmins on May 29, 2026 is a critical opportunity to ensure that the voices of northern First Nations, particularly those from the James Bay region, are meaningfully represented in the development of the framework. Northern communities face unique realities, including geographic isolation, limited access to services, higher costs of living, and distinct labour market conditions. This session creates space for community members, service providers, and leadership to share their experiences, priorities, and solutions directly. It helps ensure that the framework is not developed from a one size that fits all approach but instead reflects the diversity of needs across Ontario. This engagement session is part of an ongoing series taking place across the province since 2025. Registration available in bio For additional information, please visit chiefsmeeting.com/fn-employment-framework-4
Over the past two days, families, Survivors, Knowl Over the past two days, families, Survivors, Knowledge Keepers, and helpers gathered in Toronto for the Chiefs of Ontario MMIWG2S+ Family Gathering. Through sharing circles, teachings, presentations, and song, participants came together to support one another and carry forward the voices of our relatives. We hold space for grief of those taken too soon, and look for healing in the face of the injustices that continues to impact First Nations women, girls, and Two Spirit relatives. Thank you to all who came to the gathering, for sharing knowledge, stories, and strength, and to the families who we walk alongside with. Read the COO CFJ Report Card here: https://chiefs-of-ontario.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/The-National-Inquirys-231-Calls-for-Justice_A-Report-Card-by-Chiefs-of-Ontario.pdf #MMIWG2S #RedDressDay #NoMoreStolenSisters
Please note that the schedule for the Ontario Fina Please note that the schedule for the Ontario Final Agreement (OFA) Implementation - Virtual Information Sessions has been updated. Participants will receive overviews covering a variety of topics essential to the long-term implementation of the OFA, including Funding Methodology and Allocations, Capital and Funding Agreements, Prevention, Post-Majority Support Services (PMSS), First Nations Representative Services (FNRS), and Least Disruptive Measures. Each session will focus on a different topic, and participants are encouraged to attend all. Date and Time: - May 11, 2026 – 10:00 A.M. - 12:00 P.M. EST – Funding Methodology & Allocations - May 19, 2026 – 10:00 A.M. - 12:00 P.M. EST – Capital Funding: Explaining FNIIP and AIIP - May 25, 2026 – 10:00 A.M. - 12:00 P.M. EST – Prevention, PMSS, FNRS & Least Disruptive Measures Registration is available in bio Please note that when you register for any session in the series, you're automatically registered for all sessions. A single Zoom link will be emailed to you, and it will grant access to every session in the series. For additional information, please visit http://www.chiefsmeeting.com/ofa-implementation
As part of #EconomicDevelopmentWeek, the Chiefs of As part of #EconomicDevelopmentWeek, the Chiefs of Ontario’s Economic Development Sector is highlighting commitment to First Nations economic sovereignty through initiatives like food security and traditional harvesting. In March 2025, the sector hosted the Food Sovereignty Forum. This event brought together First Nations food technicians and relevant ministries to address food insecurity, explore economic opportunities in traditional food systems, and support land-based healing programs. Strengthening our local food systems is a vital component of building a resilient and self-determined economic future for all First Nations in Ontario.
In recognition of #EconomicDevelopmentWeek (May 4– In recognition of #EconomicDevelopmentWeek (May 4–8), the Chiefs of Ontario’s Economic Development Sector is highlighting its Grant Tracker, a centralized resource designed to simplify the funding landscape for First Nations. Accessing support is often difficult when deadlines and eligibility requirements are spread across multiple portals. The Grant Tracker brings these key federal, provincial, and private funding opportunities into one accessible place. The practical resource is designed access to information and support informed decision-making for a stronger economic future. Access the Grant Tracker in bio
Observed annually on May 5, Red Dress Day is a Nat Observed annually on May 5, Red Dress Day is a National Day of Awareness and Action, honouring the lives taken and those still missing, while calling for justice and systemic change. This year, the day is marked by urgent concern. The federal government has recently allowed critical funding dedicated to addressing the MMIWG2S+ crisis to lapse with no notice or confirmation of renewal. The loss of this funding places essential support at risk, including community-led initiatives, services for families, and critical data collection and advocacy work. “Red Dress Day is not only a time of remembrance, but also a call to action. We honour the lives of First Nations women, girls, and Two Spirit people who have been taken, and we stand with the families and communities who continue to seek justice,” said Deputy Grand Chief Anna Betty Achneepineskum, Nishnawbe Aski Nation. “This crisis is ongoing, and First Nations women, girls, men, and Two Spirit people continue to face disproportionate levels of violence. We are deeply concerned by decisions to allow critical supports and funding to lapse while this violence persists. We must listen, learn, and work together to ensure accountability and to end this crisis.” The Chiefs of Ontario emphasize that MMIWG2S+ crisis is not historic, it is ongoing. Despite the 231 Calls for Justice issued in the final report of the National Inquiry, implementation remains inconsistent. The need for stable, long-term, First Nations-led funding has never been more urgent. “The decision to let this funding lapse, while this crisis continues, is unacceptable.” said Ontario Regional Chief Abram Benedict. “This crisis has not ended, and the funding should not have either. First Nations women, girls, and Two Spirit people deserve sustained, long-term investments, not short-term commitments that disappear.” Read the full statement via the link in bio. #RedDressDay #MMIWG2S
The Chiefs of Ontario are hosting a series of Onta The Chiefs of Ontario are hosting a series of Ontario Final Agreement (OFA) Implementation - Virtual Information Sessions. As we move toward the next stages of the OFA, these sessions serve as a vital platform for informing participants on the structural and financial foundations of the agreement. Participants will receive overviews covering a variety of topics essential to the long-term implementation of the OFA, including Funding Methodology and Allocations, Capital and Funding Agreements, Prevention, Post-Majority Support Services (PMSS), First Nations Representative Services (FNRS), and Least Disruptive Measures. Each session will focus on a different topic, and participants are encouraged to attend all. Date and Time: - May 11, 2026 - 10:00 A.M. - 12:00 P.M. EST - Funding Methodology & Allocations - May 19, 2026 - 10:00 A.M. - 12:00 P.M. EST - Prevention, PMSS, FNRS & Least Disruptive Measures - May 25, 2026 - 10:00 A.M. - 12:00 P.M. EST - Capital Funding: Explaining FNIIP and AIIP - June 1, 2026 - 10:00 A.M. - 12:00 P.M. EST - Funding Agreements: Transition Plan Please note that when you register for any session in the series, you're automatically registered for all sessions. A single Zoom link will be emailed to you, and it will grant access to every session in the series. Registration is available in bio For additional information, please visit http://www.chiefsmeeting.com/ofa-implementation
In honor of #EconomicDevelopmentWeek, the Chiefs o In honor of #EconomicDevelopmentWeek, the Chiefs of Ontario’s Economic Development Sector invites First Nations Businesses to be part of the Ontario First Nations Business Directory, an initiative that helps highlights the strengths and diversity of First Nations economies across Ontario. By joining the directory you can: Enhance Visibility: Increase discoverability among government, private sector, and First Nations partners. • Build Connections: Foster new partnerships within and beyond our communities. • Ensure Data Sovereignty: Your data is managed in alignment with the First Nations Principles of OCAP® (Ownership, Control, Access, and Possession). The proposed free, searchable website features a geographical map with filtering capabilities to help partners easily find your services. Your involvement is vital to forging a more inclusive and interconnected business community. Hear directly from Chief R. Donald Maracle, Mohawks of the Bay of Quinte in the video below, where he shares why he supports the directory and its role in advancing economic reconcilitation. Register today to ensure your business is represented: Access the directory registration in our bio.
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