Leadership Council

The Leadership Council (LC), formally known as the Political Confederacy (PC), is the political coordination and steering committee for First Nations in Ontario. Mandated by the Chiefs-in-Assembly, the LC works with the Ontario Regional Chief to set, coordinate, and implement First Nations leaders’ priorities.

The Chiefs of Ontario Leadership Council at the Chiefs of Ontario Special Chiefs Assembly in Toronto on October 10, 2024. (Photographed left to right – Grand Chief Joel Abram, Association of Iroquois and Allied Indians, Grand Chief Alvin Fiddler, Nishnawbe Aski Nation, Grand Council Chief Linda Debassige, Anishinabek Nation, Chief Sherri-Lyn Hill, Six Nations of the Grand River, Chief Shelly-Moore Frappier, Temagami First Nation, Grand Chief Francis Kavanaugh, Grand Council Treaty #3, and Ontario Regional Chief Abram Benedict, Chiefs of Ontario)

The LC and Regional Chief are also mandated to address unforeseen and emergency issues between Assemblies.

The Leadership Council is comprised of the political executives of the four Political Territorial Organizations (PTOs): Anishinabek Nation, Association of Iroquois and Allied Indians, Nishnawbe Aski Nation, and Grand Council Treaty #3, and includes representation from the Independent First Nations, Six Nations of the Grand River, Mohawks of Akwesasne, and Mushkegowuk Council.

To complete their work, the Leadership Council uses a portfolio system to delegate broad responsibilities in sector areas such as health, education, environment and social services. Members of the Leadership Council take responsibility for a select portfolio, ensuring that each sector has a dedicated champion, an advocate, and a strong leader.

The Leadership Council relies on the work of the COO Secretariat and works closely with sector directors to ensure that the Council has the most up-to-date analysis and information. This relationship between the Leadership Council and sector directors allows the Council to focus on good governance and navigate the organization and First Nations leadership through the federal and provincial political landscape.

The Leadership Council plays a vital role in the Chiefs of Ontario and provides a source of strength, wisdom and leadership. Through their dedication and hard work, the Leadership Council will continue to provide guidance to First Nations in Ontario with great minds, hearts, and Spirit.