(Algonquin Unceded Territory, Ontario – December 8, 2023) Ontario Regional Chief Glen Hare, on behalf of the Chiefs of Ontario, congratulates Cindy Woodhouse, of Pinaymootang First Nation, as the newly elected National Chief of the Assembly of First Nations (AFN):

“On behalf of the Chiefs in Ontario, I extend my warmest congratulations and sincere excitement to work alongside newly elected National Chief Cindy Woodhouse,” said Ontario Regional Chief Glen Hare. “Over the last two and a half years, Cindy Woodhouse has done exceptional work in advancing First Nations priorities in Manitoba, and has been an exceptional leader in negotiations for the AFN that resulted in a $40 billion settlement of a human rights class action lawsuit regarding discrimination in the child welfare system.”

Newly elected National Chief Woodhouse has also been an avid supporter of the Assembly of First Nations advocacy on clean drinking water, universal internet connectivity, and closing the infrastructure and housing gap for all First Nations. She ran on a platform of committing to building a prosperous future for First Nations children, implementation of the Calls to Action and Justice of the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls, a focus on policing and safety, economic reconciliation, and fighting for First Nations’ housing priorities.

“The past year has resulted in the need for unity, now, more than ever. As National Chief-Elect Woodhouse stated in her acceptance speech, things are not easy, but we can and will work together as one. The time is now to strengthen our relationship with the AFN, and to commit to work in tandem to achieve our aligned regional and national goals.”

National Chief-Elect Woodhouse was elected following six ballot results and the concession of candidate David Pratt. The AFN election saw 415 of 461 registered Chiefs and proxies participate in voting in the last round ballot. Six candidates stood for election as National Chief.

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The Chiefs of Ontario support all First Nations in Ontario as they assert their sovereignty, jurisdiction and their chosen expression of nationhood. Follow Chiefs of Ontario on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram @ChiefsOfOntario.

Media Contact:

Chris Hoyos
Director of Policy and Communications
Policy and Communications Sector
Chiefs of Ontario
Cell: (416) 579-4998
Email: Chris.Hoyos@coo.org