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Contact UsChiefs of Ontario2026-01-26T18:11:06-05:00

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Addressing the decline in the public health workforce and high turnover rates in First Nations communities.

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June 4, 2026 — The British Columbia Assembly of Fi

June 4, 2026 — The British Columbia Assembly of First Nations and the Chiefs of Ontario are outraged and deeply disheartened by the Senate’s decision to vote down the amendments to Bill C-9 that would have recognized residential school denialism as hate propaganda under the Criminal Code. Canada continues to neglect their legal obligation to align all new legislation with the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples as directed in their UN Declaration Action Plan, by ignoring the meaningful input of First Nations.

Let us be absolutely clear about what happened. The Senate Committee on Human Rights studied this issue, heard from First Nations witnesses, Survivors and leadership, and adopted these protections by a near-unanimous vote of 7 to 1. How does a Liberal government that claims to want to walk the path of reconciliation silence the very protections the Human Rights Committee fought to establish?

“This government looked a residential school Survivor in the eye and told her to wait,” said Ontario Regional Chief Abram Benedict. “They will apologize for our history, but they will not protect us from those who deny it ever happened. That is not reconciliation. That is cowardice dressed up as process.”

“Canada has told First Nations once again that our needs are secondary to the national political agenda,” shared British Columbia Regional Chief Terry Teegee. “Canada continues to forget their legal obligations to First Nations, while undermining and ignoring our inherent title and rights. Canada knows the truth about the residential school system, and by not sharing this truth, they are responsible for the growing hate and violence faced by our people.”

This is a betrayal, plain and simple. It is a procedural game. The government hides behind the language of “consultation” and “proper process,” but First Nations people know exactly what that means...

To read the full press release, visit: https://chiefs-of-ontario.org/british-columbia-and-ontario-first-nations-leadership-condemns-senates-rejection-of-residential-school-denialism-protections/

The Chiefs of Ontario is excited to announce that

The Chiefs of Ontario is excited to announce that the 2025-2026 Annual Report is now available for download!

Visit: https://chiefs-of-ontario.org/download/2025-2026-chiefs-of-ontario-annual-report/

The Chiefs of Ontario Research and Data Management

The Chiefs of Ontario Research and Data Management Sector will be hosting a webinar on Thursday, June 25, 2026. The webinar will provide an accessible introduction to artificial intelligence (AI), including how technology works, the rapid growth of AI infrastructure and investment, and the ethical challenges and opportunities it presents for First Nations. The session will also explore issues such as environmental impacts, algorithmic bias, and data sovereignty.

Date: Thursday, June 25, 2026

Time: 1:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. EST

For more information, or to register, please visit the assembly link in our bio.

Location: Online Virtual - Microsoft Teams

Who Should Attend: First Nations Leadership, COO Councils, and Technicians

For more information, please visit: https://www.chiefsmeeting.com/aiwebinar or contact Marcel Benegas, Coordinator at Marcel.Benegas@coo.org

📢 Petition to the House of Commons (e-7410): Indig

📢 Petition to the House of Commons (e-7410): Indigenous Affairs

***Content warning: A national Indian Residential School Crisis Line is available to provide support for Survivors and those affected. People can access emotional and crisis referral services by calling the 24-hour service at 1-866-925-4419.

Indian Residential Schools (IRS) operated in Canada from 1831 to 1997, impacting over 150,000 First Nations, Inuit, and Red River Métis children. The impacts continue across generations, with ongoing responsibilities for healing, justice, and truth-telling.

This petition calls on the Government of Canada to:

-Renew and expand funding for Residential Schools Missing Children work
-Sustain Survivor healing and cultural supports
-Fulfill TRC Calls to Action 21, 22, and 72–76
-Uphold commitments under the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) Act

The Residential Schools Missing Children Community Support Fund is set to sunset in 2026, and Survivor supports are being reduced despite ongoing need.

Sign the petition here:
https://www.ourcommons.ca/petitions/en/Petition/Details?Petition=e-7410

Deadline to sign: September 2, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. (EDT)

Every signature helps ensure this work continues with the resources and respect it requires

📢 As of May 29, 2026, the official implementation

📢 As of May 29, 2026, the official implementation of the Ontario Final Agreement (OFA) has begun. We are sharing key dates and updates as the First Nation Child and Family Services (FNCFS) Program in Ontario transitions to this historic new model.

This milestone marks a critical 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 rolling out to prioritize community-designed infrastructure and long-term stability.

Stay informed about upcoming deadlines, funding changes, and planning requirements by visiting the FNCFS Reform Implementation page, link available in bio

🌈 This Pride Month, Chiefs of Ontario proudly cele

🌈 This Pride Month, Chiefs of Ontario proudly celebrates the strength, identities, and contributions of First Nations 2S/LGBTQIA+ people and communities.

Two Spirit identities have always existed within our Nations, rooted in our teachings, languages, and ways of being. This month is an opportunity honour these truths, celebrate the diversity of our communities, and recognize the resilience of those who continue to reclaim and live authentically in their identities.

Happy PRIDE!

#PrideMonth #Pride #2SLGBTQQIA #TwoSpirit

Ontario Regional Chief Abram Benedict has released

Ontario Regional Chief Abram Benedict has released a statement regarding National Indigenous History Month and Pride Month, while also recognizing the 30th anniversary of National Indigenous Peoples Day, which will be marked on June 20.

“National Indigenous History Month, alongside the 30th anniversary of National Indigenous Peoples Day, is an opportunity to honour the strength of our Nations, and recognize the generations of Knowledge Keepers, leaders, and communities, who continue to carry our cultures forward,” said Ontario Regional Chief Abram Benedict. “As we reflect on this milestone, we are also reminded of our responsibility to ensure our Nations are places where all our people are respected and supported.”

National Indigenous History Month recognizes First Nations histories and the ongoing presence of languages, cultures, and governance systems that continue to guide communities today. Pride Month recognizes 2S/LGBTQQIAPD+ people and highlights the continued work needed to address barriers to safety and inclusion.

“Two Spirit and LGBTQQIPAD+ people have always been a part of our Nations, and our presence is rooted in our teachings and responsibilities, said Mallory Soloman, Co-Chair of the Chiefs of Ontario 2S/LGBTQQIAPD+ Council. “This month is not only about recognition, it is about making sure our people feel supported and respected in every space they enter, whether in community, ceremony, or leadership.”

Throughout the month of June, the Chiefs of Ontario continues to support initiatives that honour First Nations histories, languages, and knowledge systems, in addition to uplifting 2S/LGBTQQIAPD+ voices and leadership across our Nations.

🧡 June is National Indigenous History Month. Thi

🧡 June is National Indigenous History Month.

This month, we celebrate the 133 First Nations across Ontario, and the teachings passed down through generations that continue to live on in our languages, songs, dances, drumming, and the strength and resilience of our people.

We honour our ancestors, Knowledge Keepers, Youth, and Leadership who carry our cultures forward, defend our rights, and help shape the future for generations to come.

#NationalIndigenousHistoryMonth

Today marked a historic turning point for First Na

Today marked a historic turning point for First Nations across Ontario. The Chiefs of Ontario and @nishnawbe_askination co-hosted a sacred ceremony in Ottawa to celebrate the official implementation of the $8.5 billion Ontario Final Agreement (OFA), reforming the First Nations Child and Family Services Program.

Joined by Leadership, youth, and Knowledge Keepers, the gathering was deeply grounded in our collective offerings and enduring responsibilities to our children and future generations. The historic morning opened with a sacred pipe ceremony led by Knowledge Keeper Perry McLeod, followed by the water drum and big drum songs, moving remarks from our youth and leadership, and a ceremonial gifting between parties to honor this new path forward.

We were honored to have Regional Chief Abram Benedict, Grand Chief Alvin Fiddler, and the Honourable Mandy Gull-Masty, Minister of Indigenous Services, stand together to mark this milestone. As funding begins to flow today, we move from commitment to community-driven action keeping families together and ensuring our children grow up secure in their culture, identity, and home communities.

OTTAWA, ON — May 29, 2026 — Today marks a historic

OTTAWA, ON — May 29, 2026 — Today marks a historic turning point for First Nations across Ontario as the Ontario Final Agreement (OFA) officially takes effect, advancing a new era of First Nations-led child and family services, grounded in inherent rights, jurisdiction, and the well-being of children and families. Leadership from the Chiefs of Ontario (COO) and Nishnawbe Aski Nation (NAN) joined the Honourable Mandy Gull-Masty, Minister of Indigenous Services, in Ottawa to mark the beginning of implementation of the $8.5 billion agreement, which will reform the First Nations Child and Family Services (FNCFS) Program across Ontario.

The implementation ceremony was grounded in offerings and responsibilities to children and future generations. The gathering opened with a sacred pipe ceremony led by Knowledge Keeper Perry McLeod, followed by the water drum and big drum songs, youth remarks, leadership remarks, and ceremonial gifting between parties. A ceremonial honour song and a symbolic moss bag placement affirmed a shared commitment to protecting and supporting future generations through First Nations-led systems of care.

“The Ontario Final Agreement affirms the inherent jurisdiction of First Nations over the care and wellbeing of their children and families, and the authority to design, govern, and deliver services grounded in their own laws and priorities. It is rooted in substantive equality and in the best interests of First Nation children, youth, young adults, and families, with a focus on real outcomes for future generations. We celebrate this milestone not only for our children today, but for the next seven generations to come, said Ontario Regional Chief Abram Benedict”

Full statement available in bio

⛳ Last week to register! Join us for the 2026 Ch

⛳ Last week to register!

Join us for the 2026 Chiefs of Ontario 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

Chiefs of Ontario will be hosting virtual dialogue

Chiefs of Ontario will be hosting virtual dialogue sessions ahead of the 2026 Annual Chiefs Assembly (ACA). These sessions will take place on Friday June 5, and Friday June 12, and will provide an opportunity for discussion on key priorities, including housing, mental health, data governance, child welfare, social services, OCAP training, education, MMIWG2S+ and economic development. View the attached agenda for details.

Date and Time:
• June 5, 2026 - 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. EST
• June 12, 2025 - 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. EST

Location: Online Via Zoom

Who Should Attend: First Nations Leadership, COO Councils, and Technicians

Link in bio!

Registration: http://coo.smudging.ca/Meeting/Register/d2ec5787-b970-4471-9bee-1dc977d31f72

For more information about the dialogue sessions, please visit: chiefsmeeting.com/aca2026-dialoguesession or email meetingsupport@coo.org

Chiefs of Ontario and Nishnawbe Aski Nation are co

Chiefs of Ontario and Nishnawbe Aski Nation are co-hosting a ceremony to mark the historic approval and implementation of the Ontario Final Agreement.

Date: Friday, May 29, 2026
Time: 12:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. EST
Public Livestream: www.youtube.com/@ChiefsOfOntario/streams

Join us live as we honour this important milestone.

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

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