Skip to content
FacebookXInstagramYouTube
  • Chiefs of Ontario Assembly Center
  • COVID-19 Updates
  • COO Web Mail
Chiefs of Ontario Logo Chiefs of Ontario Logo Chiefs of Ontario Logo
  • Home
  • About Us
    • About
    • History
    • Staff
    • Board of Directors
    • Careers
    • Media Releases
    • Contact Us
  • Priorities
    • Economic
      • About Economic
      • Sustainable Economic Development
    • Education
    • Environment
    • Research and Data Management
      • About Research & Data Management
      • First Nations’ RIGC Project
      • Voices of Sovereignty Podcast Series
      • Data Governance
      • Reports & Studies
      • Past Projects
    • Health
    • Justice
      • About Justice
      • UNDRIP
      • Policing & Community Safety
      • Land Rights & Interests
      • Heritage & Burials
      • Projects
    • Social
      • About Social
      • Ontario Indian Social Services Council
      • Human Trafficking
      • Child Welfare
      • Bill C-92
      • 1965 Welfare Agreement
      • 60s Scoop
      • Social Services Committee Members
    • Women’s Initiatives
      • About Women’s Initiatives
      • First Nations Women’s Council
      • Resolutions
      • Risk Assessment & Danger Assessment Tools (RADAT)
      • Women’s Leadership Summit
      • First Nations Women’s REACH Conference
    • Youth
  • Political
    • Office of the Regional Chief
  • First Nations
    • Understanding Sovereignty
    • Leadership Council
  • Resources
    • The Advocate Magazine
    • Indian Residential School Information
    • First Nations Federal Priorities 2025 and Federal Election
    • Protecting Our Lands: A First Nations Response to Bill 5 & Bill C-5
    • Directory
    • Documentary
    • Downloads
    • Media Clips
    • Videos
    • Search
  • Events

Ontario chief calls on province to ‘erase’ six Métis communities, including Georgian Bay

Ontario chief calls on province to ‘erase’ six Métis communities, including Georgian Bay

Chiefs of Ontario2025-12-18T10:50:45-05:00

Latest Updates

  • Chiefs of Ontario Marks Red Dress Day, Calls for Urgent Action as…
    May 4, 2026
  • Canada Files Judicial Review Following the Ontario Final Agreemen…
    May 1, 2026
  • Chiefs of Ontario and Nishnawbe Aski Nation Celebrate Historic Ap…
    March 30, 2026
  • Chiefs of Ontario Responds to 2026 Ontario Budget
    March 27, 2026

Upcoming Events

May 2026
May 05 - 06 2026

MMIWG2S+ Family Gathering

May 12 - 14 2026

Powering Up Data Sovereignty Conference

June 2026
Jun 16 2026

2026 Annual Chiefs Assembly

September 2026
Sep 30 2026

Orange Shirt Day

No event found!
VIEW FULL CALENDAR

Chiefs of Ontario Overview

https://vimeo.com/131783397?loop=0

Recent Tweets

Tweets by ChiefsofOntario

Sign Up for Our Mailing List

Recent Posts

  • Chiefs of Ontario Marks Red Dress Day, Calls for Urgent Action as MMIWG2S+ Funding Ends
  • Canada Files Judicial Review Following the Ontario Final Agreement Approval
  • Justice – Policy Analyst
  • Education – Policy Analyst

INSTAGRAM

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.
On March 30, 2026, the Canadian Human Rights Tribu On March 30, 2026, the Canadian Human Rights Tribunal (CHRT) approved the Final Agreement on Long-Term Reform of the First Nations Child and Family Services Program (Ontario Final Agreement or OFA) in Ontario. Canada has decided to file a limited judicial review of the Tribunal’s decision with the Federal Court of Canada, asking the court to review the decision to exempt Georgina Island First Nation and Taykwa Tagamou First Nation from the OFA. The Chiefs of Ontario (COO) and @nishnawbe_askination (NAN) will evaluate their position on Canada’s judicial review in the coming weeks. However, COO and NAN are calling on Canada to implement the full scope and funding of the OFA starting May 29, 2026, and to release the remoteness funding under the Remoteness Quotient Adjustment Factor (RQAF). While a judicial review could delay implementation of the OFA, Canada has stated it will proceed, and COO and NAN are calling on Canada to uphold this crucial commitment. “This is an unfortunate setback in a process that has already spanned two decades,” said Ontario Regional Chief Abram Benedict. “We are pleased Minister Gull-Masty has committed to the implementation of the OFA and proceedings as planned. We will continue to navigate these challenges and hold the Minister accountable to ensure the OFA is implemented for the benefit of our children and families.” Grand Chief Alvin Fiddler of Nishnawbe Aski Nation stated: “We are disappointed with the decision to move forward with a judicial review, but it is encouraging that Minister-Gull Masty has affirmed her commitment to move forward with the OFA implementation immediately. We must ensure this includes the full implementation of the historic remoteness adjustment funding that is essential to improving outcomes for our children, our families, and our communities.” Full statement available in bio
In this video, Chief Veronica Smith speaks about t In this video, Chief Veronica Smith speaks about the critical lack of funding and programs available within the 1965 Indian Welfare Agreement. As the Child Welfare Systems Planning Advisor for the Independent First Nations, she highlights how these systemic gaps hinder the delivery of essential services to our children and families. This process must be fundamentally different by centering First Nation voices to build a system that meets First Nation needs. Learn why reform is required: 1965IWAReform.ca #ChiefsOfOntario #1965IWAReform #IndependentFirstNations
The Chiefs of Ontario Education Sector is hosting The Chiefs of Ontario Education Sector is hosting the First Nations Education, Languages and Special Education Forum in Thunder Bay, Ontario, from November 3–5, 2026. This year’s theme, “Learning Across All Stages of Life,” reflects a holistic First Nations understanding of learning as a lifelong, interconnected journey rooted in language, culture, and community. We are now accepting presentation abstracts related to: K–12 Education Language Special Education Submission deadline: May 15, 2026 Submit your abstract using the link in our bio. For more information or questions, Ocean Song Bui, Education Coordinator at OceanSong.Bui@coo.org or Ashley McGregor, Education Coordinator at Ashley.McGregor@coo.org
Former Independent Special Interlocutor Kimberly M Former Independent Special Interlocutor Kimberly Murray reflects on progress and ongoing gaps since the release of her Final Report on Missing and Unmarked Burials associated with Indian Residential Schools. Murray calls for stronger federal and provincial legislation to protect burial grounds, allow access to privately held lands, and improve access to records held by Library and Archives Canada. She also stressed the urgent need to establish an implementation committee to ensure governments fulfill the obligations in the final report. To learn more, please visit: https://osi-bis.ca/osi-resources/reports/
On March 30, 2026, First Nations leaders, knowledg On March 30, 2026, First Nations leaders, knowledge keepers, youth and advocates gathered in Toronto to mark the Canadian Human Rights Tribunal’s approval of the Ontario Final Agreement (OFA). This landmark decision affirms First Nations jurisdiction over child and family services and advances long-term reform rooted in substantive equality. First Nations can now work towards reform that is grounded in their laws, traditions and communities. At its core, this moment is about children. It represents a shift toward prevention, healing, and ensuring future generations can grow up supported by their families, cultures, and Nations. It is a time for celebration. But it is also a time of remembrance for those that went through and were harmed by the system. For more information, please visit: https://fncfsreform.ca
Chippewas of Rama First Nation will host the 2026 Chippewas of Rama First Nation will host the 2026 Chiefs of Ontario Annual Chiefs Assembly (ACA) from June 16-18, 2026 at Casino Rama Resort in Rama, ON. This three-day assembly will include critical updates on a variety of issues and priorities for First Nations in Ontario. Location: Casino Rama Resort, Chippewas of Rama First Nation, 5899 Rama Rd, Rama, ON L3V 6H6 (Hybrid) Who Should Attend: First Nations Leadership, Technicians, Government Representatives & Agencies Registration is now live: https://coo.smudging.ca:8443/Meeting/Register/c6389d1e-2906-48be-877a-3d8f4a06e1db For more information, please visit: https://www.chiefsmeeting.com/aca2026
This Earth Day let us celebrate our First Nations This Earth Day let us celebrate our First Nations cultures as the gifts they are, guiding us to protect all of creation and our future generations. Indigenous Peoples steward about 80% of global biodiversity, despite their territories covering roughly a quarter of the world’s land outside Antarctica. First Nations are part of these global Indigenous communities and hold knowledge that supports responsible stewardship. Last year, the Chiefs of Ontario Environment Sector & Ontario First Nations Young Peoples Council held a Species at Risk (SAR) Conservation Conference in Bawating to provide an opportunity for First Nation Youth in Ontario to have hands-on training regarding the identification and assessment/monitoring of Species at Risk while incorporating Indigenous Knowledge and languages. To watch, visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wxUlR3XQiUw&t=2s #OurPowerOurPlanet #EarthDay2026
In this video Grand Council Chief Linda Debassige In this video Grand Council Chief Linda Debassige speaks about the historical injustice of the 1965 Indian Welfare Agreement, a document drafted and signed without the consent, input, or engagement from First Nations. This process must be fundamentally different by centering First Nation voices to build a system that meets First Nation needs. By co-developing a new framework, we are not just updating a program, we are empowering First Nations on the path toward true sovereignty and self-sustainability. Learn why reform is required: 1965IWAReform.ca #ChiefsOfOntario #1965IWAReform
Description: Former Independent Special Interlocut Description: Former Independent Special Interlocutor, Kimberly Murray, speaks to the growing rise of denialism surrounding Indian Residential Schools and warns that denying the truth of these institutions is dangerous and incites hate against Indigenous Peoples. She reflects on the findings of her final report, emphasizing Canada’s failure to amend the Criminal Code, advance education, and support commemoration and memorialization efforts. Murray underscores the need for sustained, Indigenous-led research and on ground investigations, including institutions where Indigenous children were taken and never returned home. She calls on Canada to meet its human rights obligations, release the truth held in archives, and provide long-term support for required justice, healing, and reconciliation. To learn more, please visit: https://osi-bis.ca/osi-resources/reports/
Follow on Instagram

Contact Info

468 Queen St E, Suite 400

Phone: (416) 597-1266

Mobile: 1-877-517-6527

Fax: (416) 597-8365

Email: Media Inquiries

COO WEB MAIL LOGIN
  • Economic
  • Education
  • Environment
  • Health
  • Justice
  • Social
  • Youth
  • Political – Office of the ORC
  • Downloads
  • Magazine
  • Events
  • Directory
  • Understanding Sovereignty
© Copyright | Chiefs of Ontario | All Rights Reserved | Design by MAAIINGAN
FacebookXInstagramYouTube
Page load link

Go to Top