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Recent Posts

On World Water Day, First Nations Leadership call on federal parties to implement the First Nations Clean Water Act
Ontario Regional Chief Abram Benedict’s response to federal Conservative Party’s commitment to ‘unlock’ the Ring of Fire
Pathways to Progress: Chiefs of Ontario’s Federal Priorities for 2025 and the Future of Economic Reconciliation Amid Trade Wars
Health – Coordinator
Chiefs of Ontario First Nations Women’s Council Issues Statement in Honour of International Women’s Day

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First Nations have been excluded from the economy

First Nations have been excluded from the economy for too long. With global and domestic challenges ahead, now is the time for change to secure Canada’s overall economic resiliency.

First Nations are key partners in prosperity, together, we can achieve true economic reconciliation.

First Nations Leadership in Ontario are calling on the next federal government to:

1. Ensure that all policy, legislation, and regulation related to resource development respect the free, prior, and informed consent of First Nations, as per the UNDRIP Act
2. Fulfill shared priority #33 of UNDRIP Canada’s National Action Plan to increase economic participation in natural resource development projects and report on progress
3. Expand the current funding envelopes within the Canadian Critical Minerals Strategy to increase the availability and flexibility of funding

To learn more, please visit: https://chiefs-of-ontario.org/resources/first-nations-federal-priorities-2025/ (link in bio)

#onpoli #canpoli

On World Water Day, and with a federal election lo

On World Water Day, and with a federal election looming, First Nations Leadership in the Ontario region are calling on the next federal government to enact Bill C-61: First Nations Clean Water Act.

“Every year on this day, the world is reminded of the importance of water. It is the very foundation of life. First Nations have always honoured and cared for the waters through respect and ceremony,” said Ontario Regional Chief Abram Benedict. “But for many Nations in Ontario, this day has mixed meaning. Far too many haven’t been able to drink the water from their taps due to ongoing and systemic issues. We’re calling on the party that forms the next federal government to enact the First Nations Clean Water Act.”

The Act had gone through several readings and committees and was halfway to becoming law but has languished on the order paper since the Liberals prorogued Parliament. It would establish new safety standards for drinking water, implement new source-water protection mechanisms and provide financial resources to enable First Nations to meet the new standards.

Also included in the Act is a commitment to establish a First Nations-run water commission to increase capacity and assist with water and wastewater services.

“The legislation is not perfect but it was a significant step in the right direction. Our people have not had a real voice when it comes to our water. This could have helped change that. It took years and years of advocacy from dozens of people to get it this far and it would be unconscionable to let it die like this,” said Anishinabek Nation Grand Council Chief Linda Debassige. “How can we expect our Nations to grow and thrive if they don’t have the basic building blocks of life? It’s 2025—it’s insanity that there are different rules for us and everyone else.”
With the fate of the legislation uncertain, and the political realities in Canada changing daily, many fear that the legislation will not pass the finish line.

Read the full release via the link in bio.
#worldwaterday

In anticipation of a federal election, the Chiefs

In anticipation of a federal election, the Chiefs of Ontario have created a policy document intended to highlight key federal priorities for Ontario First Nations.

Pathways to Progress: First Nations Priorities for Federal Policy Reform is directed towards all major federal parties, calling attention to First Nation issues and concerns at this pivotal moment in Canada’s political and economic trajectory.

As Canada navigates turbulent times, it is more important than ever that the nation-to-nation relationship is rooted in collaboration, reciprocity, and mutual respect.

We urge the public and politicians alike to heed the priorities outlined in this document. We will highlight these priorities in the coming days and weeks to ensure Ontario First Nations’ voices are heard this election season.

Link in bio for the full report.

@benedictabram has released a statement in respons

@benedictabram has released a statement in response to remarks provided earlier today by Conservative Party of Canada Leader Pierre Poilievre that, if elected, his government will “unlock” the Ring of Fire region in Northern Ontario by green lighting all federal permits within six months.

This morning during a press event in Sudbury, Ont., Pierre Poilievre vowed to commit $1 billion over three years to build a road network to connect Ring of Fire communities with mineral deposits and Ontario’s highways.

“If the federal Conservatives want to develop Northern Ontario, First Nations must be at the table from the beginning and they must work towards obtaining the free, prior and informed consent of First Nations in the area,” said Regional Chief Benedict. “First Nations are all unique and there are many different positions on mining developments in the north. But what they all have in common is that their sovereignty, jurisdiction and rights must be respected. Treaties and inherent rights must be recognized.”

“Mr. Poilievre wants to partner with First Nations. While these sentiments are welcomed and reflect the First Nations’ desires to partner, we must be equal partners,” said Regional Chief Benedict. “If any government is serious, First Nations must be at the table and have their concerns heard.”

The Ring of Fire region is said to contain vast quantities of critical minerals like chromite, cobalt, copper, nickel, and platinum—all used in industrial manufacturing, construction and other applications. With trade tensions between Canada and the United States on the rise, many are turning to Northern Ontario as an answer to economic concerns.

“First Nations across this province echo the same concerns as other regions across the country. We too need to put food on the table. Our economic futures are intertwined. If we fail, Canada fails. So let’s move forward in a good way that respects each other while honouring our Treaties, title and inherent rights,” said Ontario Regional Chief Benedict. “The country’s economy cannot supplant its legal and fiduciary responsibilities to First Nations.”
#onpoli #canpoli
Link in bio

(Toronto, Ont. – March 18, 2025) As the likeliho

(Toronto, Ont. – March 18, 2025) As the likelihood of an imminent 2025 federal election increases, the Chiefs of Ontario are calling on federal leaders to prioritize policies that honour First Nations rights and foster collaborative solutions grounded in the spirit of reconciliation.

“Ontario is home to the largest First Nations population in Canada. The decisions of the next federal government will have long term impacts on our lands, rights, and futures. First Nations must be at the forefront of shaping these policies,” said Ontario Regional Chief Abram Benedict.

“Economic reconciliation is essential to the future of our Peoples and Nations. As global trade tensions continue to disrupt Canadian markets, First Nations must be included as partners in Canada’s path toward economic resiliency. We are committed to achieving prosperity alongside all Canadians, through a true nation-to-nation relationship built on respect, collaboration, and reciprocity.”

Pathways to Progress is an advocacy report structured around six key areas:

1. Upholding Treaty Rights, Strengthening First Nations Laws, and Respecting 2S+ and Women’s Voices

2. Creating Prosperous Nations: Economic Strength and Environmental Responsibility for First Nations

3. Safe Homes, Clean Water: Building Healthy and Resilient First Nation Communities

4. Advancing Child Welfare, Health Equity, Education, and Languages for First Nations

5. First Nation Data Sovereignty and Governance

6. Restoring Mobility, Honoring Rights: First Nations Sovereignty Across Borders

To access the full report, Pathways to Progress: First Nations Priorities for Federal Policy Reform, visit the link in bio.

The commitments outlined in the document will serve as a pathway toward a future where First Nations and Canada can best work together in true partnership on priorities that are most certainly shared with all political parties seeking to guide the country through these unprecedented times and for generations to come.

To read the full press release, visit the link in bio.

What an incredible week at #LittleNHL2025 in Markh

What an incredible week at #LittleNHL2025 in Markham! 🏒🔥

The Chiefs of Ontario were proud to be there alongside the Ontario First Nations Young Peoples Council (OFNYPC), engaging with youth on the ISC Second Generation Cut-Off and Section 10 Voting Threshold survey. Our Regional Health Survey team was also on-site, connecting with the community.

Congratulations to all the teams for their hard work and dedication! #LNHL2025

And congratulations to the winners of the survey prizes, and PS5 raffle!

@little_nhl @ofnypc_official

The Chiefs of Ontario First Nations Women’s Coun

The Chiefs of Ontario First Nations Women’s Council (FNWC) and newly elected Chief, Tesha Rourke, have released the following statement regarding International Women’s Day:

“With ‘Accelerate Action’ as the 2025 theme for International Women’s Day, March 8, we are reminded of the need to advance gender equity in Leadership and governance. As First Nations women, we continue to reclaim our roles and accelerate the restoration of balance within our communities,” said the Council.

Tesha Rourke is a recently elected Chief for Tsi Snaíhne District of the Mohawk Council of Akwesasne and a new member of the Chiefs of Ontario First Nations Women’s Council. Chief Rourke stresses the importance of celebrating our women Chiefs as we strive to restore the balance of women in Leadership roles.

“Stepping into this role, to me, represents the continuation of our ancestors’ strength, resilience, and wisdom. It is both a responsibility and an opportunity—to ensure that our governance reflects the knowledge and leadership that women have always carried, and to inspire the next generation to step forward with confidence” says Chief Tesha Rourke.

Many First Nations have matriarchal traditions, with women historically holding leadership roles. However, colonization and the Indian Act disrupted these governance systems.

According to the Government of Canada, “Indigenous Services Canada said from 2012 to 2022, the number of female chiefs has gone up to 24 percent from 18 percent and the number of female band council members has risen to 31 percent from 29 percent. It says the numbers are an estimate based on what’s reported by electoral officers and does not include First Nations councils that govern themselves outside the Indian Act.”

Chief Rourke emphasizes that today is a day to honour the incredible women past, present, and future. “Every day, we rise, we lead, and we prove our resilience and strength. We are grounded. We are medicine. We are the force that creates a positive shift. Empowered women empower women. Happy International Women’s Day.”

Full statement can also be found via the link in bio.

#IWD2025 #AccelerateAction

The election of @benedictabram in 2024 marked the

The election of @benedictabram in 2024 marked the first time in the Chiefs of Ontario’s 50-year history a person of Haudenosaunee descent has held the office of Ontario Regional Chief. This video shows part of the creation of the Kastowa and the presentation to Regional Chief Benedict. Ian Clute of Two House Design-Crafters (@twohousedc) made the Kastowa.

To commemorate the organization’s 50-year anniversary, the Chiefs of Ontario are making a documentary to celebrate half a century of First Nations political advocacy, culture and resistance. The feature documentary is about the social and political transformation of Indigenous peoples in Ontario through 50 years of political advocacy, leadership, and a profound love for the people and communities COO serves.

But we need your help. Your contributions will help us capture and honour the rich history of First Nations governance and advocacy in Ontario. We are seeking archival materials to bring this important story to life, including: photos, videos, newspaper articles, documents and other historical artifacts.

For more information, please visit the documentary link in our bio.

Wrapping up the 2025 First Nations Food Sovereignt

Wrapping up the 2025 First Nations Food Sovereignty Forum!

Grateful to all knowledge keepers, speakers and participants who participated in this year’s Food Sovereignty Forum. This gathering provided a platform to explore and discuss key challenges, barriers, and programs related to First Nations food security and sovereignty. Let’s continue this vital work, honoring our traditions and working together for solutions and innovations in the journey to food sovereignty.

To learn more and gain access to resources, please visit:
https://www.chiefsmeeting.com/first-nations-food-sovereignty-forum

#FirstNationFoodSovereignty #ChiefsofOntario

First Nations Food Sovereignty Forum begins today!

First Nations Food Sovereignty Forum begins today!

We’re kicking off the 2025 First Food Sovereignty Forum, bringing together leaders, knowledge keepers, and community members to discuss the importance of food sovereignty, sustainability, and economic development.

To learn more, please visit: https://www.chiefsmeeting.com/first-nations-food-sovereignty-forum

#FirstNationFoodSovereignty #ChiefsofOntario

Ontario Regional Chief @benedictabram issues state

Ontario Regional Chief @benedictabram issues statement on provincial election results:
“Yesterday, Ontarians cast their ballots and elected Doug Ford as premier for the third time. I congratulate Premier Ford on his win and look forward to our continued work together.

Now is a time for us to come together. First Nations have a common interest in protecting our communities and homelands against the economic uncertainty and threats that a potential trade war could bring.

There are several paths ahead. The Chiefs of Ontario and my office prefer to walk the path where we work together, in true collaboration and partnership, to build each other and our communities up.

First Nations are partners in prosperity. Our lands and Nations are immense and beautiful. They’ve already driven Canada’s economic prosperity since its founding as a country. That’s not going to change. We must move into the coming years in collaboration and in the spirit of true reconciliation.

This election also saw several First Nations candidates running for provincial Parliament. This is a testament to our people and Nations. We are strong and the number of First Nations people running for public office will only increase. Congratulations to all First Nations candidates, whether you won or lost—you serve as an inspiration for all those who will follow in your stead.

I also wish to express my deepest congratulations to MPP Sol Mamakwa on his re-election. Sol has been our fiercest ally in the Ontario legislature, and we look forward to continuing our work together in a good way.”

Link in bio. #onpoli

That's a wrap on the 18th annual health forum from

That's a wrap on the 18th annual health forum from Toronto, ON.

Over the last three days, participants had the opportunity to engage in discussions covering opioid use, writing support letters for Jordan’s Principle, Indigenous youth empowerment, and NIHB updates. We were also moved by a powerful panel on being unhoused but not defeated, reconnecting with the land, and fostering collaboration.

If you missed the health forum, the live stream replay is available on the Chiefs of Ontario YouTube page.

For more information, please visit the health forum link in our bio.

Media advisory: On March 3, 2025, the Chiefs of On

Media advisory: On March 3, 2025, the Chiefs of Ontario will hold a media event to discuss collaboration between First Nations and the mining sector during the 2025 Prospectors & Developers Association of Canada Convention (PDAC).

Ontario is home to many of the critical resources in Canada. It is also home to First Nations who have lived on this land since time immemorial. As global demands for critical minerals surge, and trade war with the United States approaches, it is now more important than ever for governments and industry proponents to work with First Nations in a way that respects their jurisdiction, sovereignty, title, and inherent and Treaty rights, and preserves First Nations heritage, so that projects can be mutually beneficial.

This press conference will help facilitate crucial discussions between First Nations, industry representatives and government officials.

Details via link in bio.

The Special Chiefs Assembly has come to a close, a

The Special Chiefs Assembly has come to a close, and we want to extend our deepest gratitude to all the Chiefs, leaders, partners, and community members who contributed to today’s important discussions. With the signing of the Ontario Final Agreement complete, we take a significant step forward in long-term reform for First Nations Child and Family Services.
Your dedication and hard work are paving the way for real change. This is a milestone to be proud of, and the work continues. Miigwech to all who made this day possible. #COOSCA2025 #FNCFSReform

Today, the Chiefs of Ontario, Nishnawbe Aski Natio

Today, the Chiefs of Ontario, Nishnawbe Aski Nation and Canada signed a landmark $8.5 billion agreement to reform the First Nations Child and Family Services Program in Ontario.
This new agreement affirms the right of First Nations in Ontario to make decisions regarding their children. It provides secure, flexible funding to support First Nations as well as funding that recognizes and accounts for the increased costs of services in remote communities. The Ontario Final Agreement is an Ontario-specific version of the national agreement on the First Nations Child and Family Services Program that was reached with the Assembly of First Nations, Chiefs of Ontario, and Nishnawbe Aski Nation in July 2024.

Read the full press release via link in bio.
#COOFCA2025 #FNCFSReform

“In the next several years, who will be sitting

“In the next several years, who will be sitting here? It will be those youth. It will be those children that we are talking about today. That colonial program that has been so difficult for our people—It has challenged our nations, challenged our identity, challenged our jurisdiction, but as we see today, the agreement that we have is a tool. It is a tool to advance your nations, to advance your jurisdiction. You don’t need recognition from the government of the jurisdiction that exists in your nations. Your jurisdiction has always been there. Your inherent right continues to be. This is a tool to advance that.” - Ontario Regional Chief, Abram Benedict
#FNCFSReform #COOSCA2025

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