Government Commitments:
Exploring Indigenous Group: "First Nations"
Updates on this page: 547
May 16, 2024
Statement from Premier Ranj Pillai on recent meetings with Selkirk First Nation and Little Salmon/Carmacks First Nation
NationTalk: Premier Ranj Pillai has issued the following statement: “Earlier this week, alongside MLA for Mayo-Tatchun Jeremy Harper, I had the pleasure of connecting with the leadership of Selkirk First Nation and the leadership of Little Salmon/Carmacks First Nation in their respective communities. During these meetings, Yukon First Nation Chiefs, Council members and I discussed...
May 15, 2024
Indigenous program strengthens long-term rural food supply
NationTalk: VICTORIA – Indigenous communities, organizations and businesses throughout the province are working to strengthen local food systems to ensure a more sustainable and affordable food supply for people in rural and remote areas. “It is vitally important that we continue to work with and listen to Indigenous partners so we can grow and maintain...
May 14, 2024
FireSmart BC™ Launches New Campaign Following Devastating 2023 Wildfire Season
NationTalk:VICTORIA, BC – Today, FireSmart BC, the provincial program committed to helping British Columbians reduce their wildfire risk, launched a new campaign reminding British Columbians that wildfire prevention is a shared responsibility. The new Our Part, Your Part campaign has a simple message: when it comes to wildfire prevention, we all have a role to...
May 13, 2024
Lyackson First Nation, Cowichan Tribes, B.C. reach milestone agreement
by ahnationtalk on May 13, 2024 May 11, 2024 NationTalk: LAKE COWICHAN – Lyackson First Nation, Cowichan Tribes and the Province are celebrating a key reconciliation milestone that will enable the return of culturally signifciant land in the Cowichan River valley to two member communities of the Quw’utsun Nation. Chief Pahalicktun (Richard Thomas), Lyackson First Nation; Chief Cindy...
May 10, 2024
Manitoba Government Announces Strategic Firefighting Investments to Support Northern and Rural Municipalities
NationTalk: The Manitoba government is taking action to protect communities and prepare for the upcoming wildfire season by investing over $13.6 million in 16 projects to support the capacity of rural municipalities and Northern Affairs and First Nation communities to respond to fires and keep Manitobans safe, Municipal and Northern Relations Minister Ian Bushie announced...
May 10, 2024
Government of Canada releases report on national efforts toward Boreal Caribou recovery
From: Environment and Climate Change Canada NationTalk: The Boreal Caribou is an iconic Canadian species at the heart of boreal forest biodiversity and with cultural importance to Indigenous peoples and other Canadians. However, their population has been declining over the past decades, primarily threatened by habitat loss and degradation. The Government of Canada is committed to...
May 10, 2024
Building affordable homes and stronger communities
NationTalk: Alberta’s government is committed to ensuring low-income and vulnerable Albertans have access to safe, secure and affordable homes. To address the diverse needs of Alberta’s communities, the government is investing in building more affordable and supportive homes across the province. Through the Affordable Housing Partnership Program, housing providers will receive funding to create more...
May 5, 2024
‘We deserve justice’: Red Dress Day events in downtown Winnipeg honour MMIWG2S+
New $15M endowment fund will help support MMIWG2S+ families, province announced on Red Dress Day CBC News: Hundreds marched from downtown Winnipeg Sunday night to mark Red Dress Day, the nationally recognized day to raise awareness for missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls and two-spirit people. The fourth annual MMIWG2S+ Walk for Justice started at...
May 3, 2024
Manitoba Government Invests in Social Housing Units
NationTalk: The Manitoba government is providing financial support for two projects that will create 46 new social housing units that target immediate community needs, Housing, Addictions, and Homelessness Minister Bernadette Smith announced today. “Through meaningful partnerships with community housing providers and significant investments, our government is increasing the social housing supply in Manitoba,” said Smith....
May 2, 2024
Advancing reconciliation with a new Commissioner for Modern Treaty Implementation
NationTalk: Canada’s relationship with Indigenous Peoples is our most important one. As partners with the original inhabitants and stewards of Canada’s lands and waters, we know that we need to make good on our commitments and responsibilities. This starts with trust, transparency, and accountability. As part of Canada’s constitutional framework, Modern Treaties have been fundamental...
May 1, 2024
Ottawa commits another $187M to ‘shed colonial habits’ and help more First Nations assume control of land
The federal government has signed a five-year funding agreement worth more than $187 million to help more First Nations assume governance of reserve lands and their natural resources. By Joy SpearChief-MorrisOttawa Bureau The Toronto Star: OTTAWA — The federal government has signed a five-year funding agreement worth more than $187 million to help more First Nations...
April 26, 2024
Clean Energy Support for Glooscap First Nation
NationTalk: Glooscap First Nation is taking action to become more energy independent, improve resilience during power outages and make energy more affordable for residents. With funding from the Province’s Sustainable Communities Challenge Fund, the community will install: Municipal Affairs and Housing Minister John Lohr, MLA for Kings North, announced the funding today, April 26, on...
April 26, 2024
New Old Crow 10-plex ready to welcome first residents
NationTalk: The Government of Yukon is committed to improving access to housing across the territory and is pleased to announce the new 10-plex in Old Crow, built in collaboration with the Vuntut Gwitchin First Nation, is ready to welcome its new occupants. These 10 new homes will help to empower the community to respond to...
April 25, 2024
Reconciliation and Treaty Implementation in action: Tsawwassen First Nation adds lands to Tsawwassen jurisdiction
NationTalk: Tsawwassen, BC – Tsawwassen First Nation (TFN) is in the process of incorporating 11 parcels of lands contiguous with the Treaty settlement boundary, to Tsawwassen jurisdiction. The incorporation of these lands demonstrates how treaty implementation can be an effective means of reconciliation. The Tsawwassen First Nation Final Agreement, signed by TFN, the Government of...
April 25, 2024
Missing Indigenous children: a third review since the Act came into force
NationTalk: QUÉBEC CITY – Minister Responsible for Relations with the First Nations and the Inuit Ian Lafrenière today submitted in the National Assembly the third annual report on the administration of the Act to authorize the communication of personal information to the families of Indigenous children who went missing or died after being admitted to...
April 25, 2024
Study underway to consider whether Peel watershed in Yukon becomes national park
‘This is a great opportunity for us all to ensure that those lands are respected and protected,’ says grand chief APTN News: The Peel watershed may soon be the home of a new national park. The watershed spans 74,000 square kilometres, from its headwaters in the Yukon to its confluence with the Mackenzie River near Fort...
April 23, 2024
Establishment of the $50M Indigenous Coastal Waters Stewardship Fund
NationTalk: Fisheries and Oceans Canada – Vancouver, BC – Today, the Indigenous Coastal Waters Stewardship Society and the Honourable Diane Lebouthillier, Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard, announced $50 million in funding to support First Nations stewardship in the Salish Sea and waters along the west coast of Vancouver Island. Funding through...
April 23, 2024
A Fairer Future for Every Generation of Indigenous Peoples
NationTalk: When Indigenous Peoples succeed, Canada succeeds. A fairer future for every generation of Indigenous Peoples includes better access to health care, housing, post-secondary education, and good-paying jobs. With renewed Nation-to-Nation, Government-to-Government, and Inuit-Crown relationships, we are creating thousands of jobs, generating economic opportunity for First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities, and closing the housing...
April 23, 2024
North West Company says officials intends to participate in committee hearings on subsidy program
APTN News: A spokesperson for the North West Company (NWC) says it’s open to any invitation from the Parliamentary Indigenous Affairs committee to talk about the federal government’s food subsidy program. “We will be assisting in any way we can, with the study on Nutrition North Canada,” said Darryl Martin, director of marketing and communications...
April 19, 2024
The Five Canada-wide Cultural Heritage Organizations Are Disappointed by Federal Budget 2024
NationTalk: In a federal budget appropriately focused on creating new housing, advancing Indigenous self-determination, combatting hate, and creating a clean economy, there is an unfortunate lack of recognition of the role cultural heritage places and existing buildings play in creating housing, wellbeing, and supporting a green economy. The five Canada-wide cultural heritage organizations – Canadian...
April 19, 2024
Trudeau government’s budget gives more taxing power to Indigenous communities
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau used the federal budget this week to open a door that Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre has already signalled he’s ready to walk through: giving Indigenous communities more power to levy taxes. Toronto Star: OTTAWA — Prime Minister Justin Trudeau used the federal budget this week to open a door that Conservative...
April 17, 2024
Mohawk Council of Kahnawà:ke and Canada Forge a New Path Together on Governance, Land and Economic Development
NationTalk: Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada – The Mohawk Council of Kahnawà:ke (MCK) and the Government of Canada have taken a significant step towards strengthening their relationship and promoting self-determination for the Kanien’kehá:ka of Kahnawà:ke. Today, a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed, outlining the relationship between the parties and the shared objective of...
April 17, 2024
‘We’re going to be welcoming the world here,’ Lennox Island chief says of new park funding
Lennox Island Chief Darlene Bernard reacts to $72M fund for new national park Federal budget earmarks $71.9M for Pituamkek, plus economic development funding 7 days ago, Duration 6:17 The federal budget, tabled Tuesday, emarks $71.9 million to establish Canada’s 11th national park reserve at Pituamkek — a chain of islands off northwestern P.E.I. that has great...
April 16, 2024
Budget 2024: Indigenous Housing and Community Infrastructure
Indigenous Housing and Community Infrastructure Everyone needs access to housing they can afford. Indigenous Peoples have faced high housing costs and lack of access for far too long. That is why the government has made huge investments and is taking historic action to increase supply across this country, including for Indigenous communities. In order for...
April 16, 2024
Budget 2024: Safe Indigenous Communities
The legacy of colonialism has meant that Indigenous communities have long been without Indigenous-led policing and justice. To correct past wrongs, it is essential that better Indigenous-led policing, justice, and emergency services are developed, guided by input from communities on what they need. Indigenous Peoples have been underrepresented in policing, which has meant policing is...
April 16, 2024
Budget 2024: Food Security
Northern Food Security Many Northerners and Indigenous people living in isolated communities lack affordable, year-round access to nutritious food. Nutrition North Canada makes nutritious foods more accessible and affordable in communities without supply centres. At a time of global food price inflation, it is more important than ever that this support be there. To deliver...
April 16, 2024
Budget 2024: Advancing Economic Reconciliation
An economy that is fair for everyone is one where everyone is able to fully participate. That hasn’t always been the case, especially for Indigenous Peoples. The history of discrimination faced in communities has meant that, for too long, Indigenous Peoples were left behind and could not fully participate in the Canadian economy. With Budget...
April 16, 2024
Feds promise $9B in the budget, includes opt-in tax program, loan guarantees
APTN News: The federal government is proposing an opt-in tax collection system for First Nation communities that will collect money for fuel, alcohol, cannabis, tobacco and vaping products according to Budget 2024 that was tabled in the House of Commons on Tuesday. “A fair fiscal relationship means supporting an Indigenous tax jurisdiction that advances self-determination...
April 16, 2024
A Fair Future for Indigenous Peoples
From: Department of Finance Canada Backgrounder A fair Canada is one where the government continues making meaningful progress in the journey of reconciliation by working in partnership with Indigenous Peoples. The federal government continues to prioritize its responsibility to help ensure First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities have what they need to grow and succeed on...
April 15, 2024
First Nations take the lead
Insights from B.C. delegation’s Japan mission Bruce Ralston Minister of Forests (in blue) tour Wing Shiroi 2×4 Panel Plant in Shiroi City, Japan. Photo courtesy Ministry of Forests. NationTalk: Canadian Forest Industries (CFI) – By Special to CFI: Forestry, by its very nature, is intimately interconnected with the land and its custodians – the First...
April 14, 2024
B.C. formally recognizes Haida Nation’s Aboriginal title to Haida Gwaii
The Globe and Mail: Victoria – In a ceremony beneath a totem pole representing unity, the B.C. government formally accepted that the Haida Nation has Aboriginal title to all one million hectares of the islands of Haida Gwaii, west of British Columbia’s north coast. The unprecedented agreement – which has been decades in the making...
April 11, 2024
B.C. tables anti-racism legislation, promises to hold public bodies accountable
The Globe and Mail: The Canadian Press – The British Columbia government tabled legislation Thursday that’s designed to hold public bodies accountable for addressing systemic racism in policy and programs, the province’s attorney general said. Niki Sharma said the proposed law would cover provincial ministries, agencies, health-care and social service providers, and require the development...
April 11, 2024
Manitoba premier wants daily legislative prayer to be more inclusive
Wab Kinew tells faith leaders he questions whether prayer ‘is representative and inclusive of all of us’ CBC News: Manitoba’s premier wants to change the prayer that’s recited in the legislature to make it more inclusive of people who practise faiths other than Christianity, and those who hold no faith at all. Wab Kinew told a breakfast gathering of...
April 9, 2024
The Wolastoqiyik Wahsipekuk First Nation and Canada sign a Memorandum of Understanding to establish a clear territorial consultation area and facilitate the stewardship of resource deployment.
NationTalk: Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada – Grand Chief Jacques Tremblay of the Wolastoqiyik Wahsipekuk First Nation (WWFN) and the Honourable Gary Anandasangaree, Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations, today announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on Consultation and Accommodation. Consultation protocols are established with Indigenous groups to determine the process to be...
April 8, 2024
Planned talks could end appeal of Saugeen First Nation beach ownership at Sauble
NationTalk: Exeter Lakeshore – Times Advance – South Bruce Peninsula’s appeal of a decision recognizing Saugeen First Nation’s ownership of more beach at Sauble Beach might not go to trial May 27. Two days of negotiations are planned involving federal and provincial representatives, the town and Saugeen in the next two weeks. Saugeen Chief Conrad Ritchie...
April 8, 2024
The IBA Welcomes The Supreme Court of Canada’s Decision in Dickson v Vuntut Gwitchin
NationTalk: OTTAWA, ONT – The Indigenous Bar Association in Canada (the “IBA”) welcomes the recent decision by the Supreme Court of Canada (the “Court”) in Dickson v Vuntut Gwitchin First Nation, 2024 SCC 10 (“Dickson”). In particular, the IBA applauds the Court’s affirmation that the residency requirement section of Vuntut Gwitchin First Nation’s (“VGFN’s”) Constitution...
April 5, 2024
Helping build more homes, faster in Northern Indigenous Ontario
NationTalk: With federal funding and federal leadership, we are changing how housing gets built in communities. With a greater focus on density and affordable housing, we are going to get more homes built for Canadians at prices they can afford. Today, the Government of Canada, Long Lake #58 First Nation, Red Rock Indian Band, Whitesand...
April 5, 2024
Portage Place to be Redeveloped to bring More Health Care, Housing Downtown
NationTalk: The Manitoba government is announcing its intention to move forward with True North Real Estate Development (TNRED) in the creation of the Health-Care Centre of Excellence as part of the redevelopment of Portage Place. The province and TNRED have signed a letter of intent regarding a 35-year lease agreement for the Health-Care Centre of...
April 5, 2024
U.S., Canada put 7 year ban on all forms of salmon fishing in Yukon, Alaska
New bilateral agreement will place moratorium on chinook fishing for seven years. APTN News: A First Nation in Yukon is celebrating a new chinook salmon management agreement between Canada and the U.S. On Apr. 1, the Alaska Fish and Game and Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) signed an agreement to rebuild chinook salmon stocks. The agreement places...
April 4, 2024
Federal government reaches $7M settlement with B.C. First Nation
First Peoples Law Report: City News, The Canadian Press – CRANBROOK, B.C. — The federal government and a British Columbia First Nation have reached a $7-million settlement over a lumber grievance that dates back to 1942. Crown-Indigenous Relations Minister Gary Anandasangaree and ?aqam Chief Joe Pierre Jr. announced the settlement Thursday, where Canada will pay...
April 4, 2024
Inspiring Hope Together: Canadian Association for Suicide Prevention Announces National Suicide Prevention Conference in Vancouver, BC
NationTalk: VANCOUVER, British Columbia — The Canadian Association for Suicide Prevention (CASP) is thrilled to announce the “Inspiring Hope Together” National Suicide Prevention Conference, scheduled to take place from May 29 to May 31, 2024, at the prestigious Pinnacle Hotel Harbourfront in Vancouver, BC. This significant event brings together a diverse range of stakeholders, including...
April 4, 2024
Manitoba Government Invests $30 Million to Create New Social and Affordable Housing
NationTalk: Budget 2024 will take the first steps in ending chronic homelessness with a $30-million investment to build, renovate and acquire new social housing units in partnership with non-profit community housing providers, Premier Wab Kinew and Housing, Addictions and Homelessness Minister Bernadette Smith announced today. “To end chronic homelessness in eight years, we have to...
April 3, 2024
Introducing the Canadian Housing Acquisition Fund!
NationTalk: The Canadian Housing Acquisition Fund is a pan-Canadian federally incorporated non-profit founded by the Canadian Housing and Renewal Association, Co-operative Housing Federation of Canada, and the Rental Protection Fund. With a leadership and governance structure to support For Indigenous, By Indigenous affordable rental housing acquisition and operation as a core part of the mandate,...
April 3, 2024
The Nation Micmac de Gespeg and the Government of Canada announce the signing of the Rights and Reconciliation Agreement with respect to Forillon National Park
NationTalk: Parks Canada – The Agreement provides for the establishment of a shared governance framework between the Nation Micmac de Gespeg and Parks Canada for joint initiatives and activities in Forillon National Park The Government of Canada is committed to a process of reconciliation with Indigenous peoples with an aim to renew relationships with them...
April 3, 2024
Manitoba budget focuses on healthcare, poverty reduction and supporting rural communities
APTN News: Manitoba’s promise to improve the province’s health care system by hiring more workers, rebuilding emergency rooms, and adding to intensive care beds is, for the most part, being received well by First Nations leaders. “This year we are hiring 1,000 health care workers, 100 doctors, 210 nurses, 90 paramedics and 600 healthcare aides,”...
April 3, 2024
Ontario promises to add 5 more First Nations to power grid, end reliance on diesel
First Nations stress they want to be consulted during the process CBC Indigenous: As the Wataynikaneyap Power Transmission project nears completion, Ontario plans to add five more remote First Nations to the provincial power grid and end their reliance on diesel fuel. Premier Doug Ford made the announcement Thursday at a media event in Oliver...
April 2, 2024
New legislation will eliminate discriminatory barriers for First Nations
NationTalk: VICTORIA – The Province of British Columbia has introduced legislative amendments that will provide administrative changes to the ways First Nations can acquire, hold and register fee simple land in B.C., reducing discriminatory and racist barriers. If passed by the legislature, Bill 13 – Land Title and Property Law Amendment Act, 2024, will specify...
April 1, 2024
A National School Food Program to set kids up for success
NationTalk: Every generation deserves a fair, healthy future – from kids, to parents, to grandparents. It’s why we’re supporting families, one of the many things that we are doing in Budget 2024 to build an economy that helps every generation get ahead. Children deserve to have the best start in life. But today, nearly one in...
March 31, 2024
City of Toronto
Municipal Calls to Action The Truth and Reconciliation Commission Final Report calls on municipalities to deliver specific outcomes for the following 5 Calls to Action: Call to Action Description Specific Outcome C2A # 43 UN Declaration (UNDRIP) Fully adopt and implement UNDRIP as the framework for reconciliation C2A # 47 Royal Proclamation and Covenant Repudiate...
March 31, 2024
City of Ottawa
Municipal Calls to Action The Truth and Reconciliation Commission Final Report calls on municipalities to deliver specific outcomes for the following 5 Calls to Action: Call to Action Description Specific Outcome C2A # 43 UN Declaration (UNDRIP) Fully adopt and implement UNDRIP as the framework for reconciliation C2A # 47 Royal Proclamation and Covenant Repudiate...
March 31, 2024
City of Montreal
Municipal Calls to Action The Truth and Reconciliation Commission Final Report calls on municipalities to deliver specific outcomes for the following 5 Calls to Action: Call to Action Description Specific Outcome C2A # 43 UN Declaration (UNDRIP) Fully adopt and implement UNDRIP as the framework for reconciliation C2A # 47 Royal Proclamation and Covenant Repudiate...
March 28, 2024
Collective rights of Indigenous communities trump individual Charter rights in some cases, Supreme Court rules
The Globe and Mail: Self-governing Indigenous communities have a constitutional right to protect their cultural differences – a collective right that trumps individual rights protected by the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, the Supreme Court ruled on Thursday. The court split three ways in a ruling that broke new legal ground on two issues:...
March 28, 2024
B.C. government affirms Haida Nation title over all of Haida Gwaii in draft agreement
Deal recognizing Haida title follows 50 years of work CBC Indigenous: British Columbia has officially recognized the Haida Nation’s Aboriginal title over the islands of Haida Gwaii with a draft agreement that has been 50 years in the making. The Gaayhllxid/Gíihlagalgang “Rising Tide” Haida Title Lands Agreement officially recognizes and affirms the nation’s right over the land of Haida...
March 28, 2024
Vuntut Gwitchin First Nation responds to the Supreme Court of Canada’s decision to uphold and protect our First Nation’s Constitution, Treaty and Self-Government rights
NationTalk: The Vuntut Gwitchin First Nation welcomes today’s decision of the Supreme Court of Canada. The Court upheld and protected the responsibility for Vuntut Gwitchin leaders elected to Council to live within our Traditional Territory in the community of Old Crow, which is the seat of our government. This responsibility was established in our Constitution...
March 27, 2024
‘It’s all Haida land’: Nation’s title to be officially recognized over the entirety of Haida Gwaii
A new draft agreement with the province lays out the groundwork to transition governance and jurisdiction over more than 10,000 square km of territory Gaagwiis, President of the Haida Nation, sings during a May 2023 ceremony to officially recognize the Council of the Haida Nation as a government in provincial law. Photo: Government of B.C....
March 26, 2024
Canada-Manitoba Partnership will Provide Rent Support for Survivors of Gender-Based Violence
NationTalk: Today, the federal government and Manitoba governments announced an enhancement to the Canada Housing Benefit (CHB) to provide housing supports for survivors of gender-based violence. The federal government is investing $13.7 million to create housing options that will be cost-matched by the Manitoba government for a combined total of $27.5 million in funding over...
March 26, 2024
CIB launches Infrastructure for Housing Initiative
NationTalk: Toronto – The Canada Infrastructure Bank (CIB) has introduced its Infrastructure for Housing Initiative (IHI), designed to help address the infrastructure constraints which are limiting new housing construction. The CIB has developed a financing tool for municipalities and Indigenous communities which are committed to building new infrastructure in support of new housing supply. Industry...
March 22, 2024
‘We have to try’: Ottawa, Manitoba commit $40M to search landfill for slain women
The money is to go toward a search of the privately owned Prairie Green landfill north of Winnipeg, where the remains of Morgan Harris and Marcedes Myran are believed to be. By Brittany Hobson and Steve Lambert The Canadian Press Toronto Star – The Canadian Press – WINNIPEG – Families of two slain First Nations women received...
March 19, 2024
Indigenous Services Canada and Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation further commit to improve First Nations housing
NationTalk: Indigenous Services Canada, Ottawa, Ontario — The Minister of Indigenous Services, the Honourable Patty Hajdu, and the Minister for Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation, the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities, issued the following statement today: “Having a safe home is essential to supporting First Nations in building the lives they want...
March 19, 2024
Historic Indigenous-Led Conservation Agreement for Northwest Territories Nears Completion in Canada
Long-term funding will secure large-scale protection for people and nature First Peoples Law Report: PEW Charitable Trusts – At 135 million hectares—nearly the size of Alaska—the Northwest Territories (NWT) in Canada is the second largest territory in the world’s second largest country. And it is here that 23 Indigenous governments—80% of those in the territory—have...
March 15, 2024
Minister’s update on Haida Nation Aboriginal Title agreement
NationTalk: VICTORIA – Murray Rankin, Minister of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation, has released the following update on the process of formally recognizing Haida Nation’s Aboriginal Title: “Since 2002, the Council of Haida Nation and the Province of B.C. have been preparing for a court case on the question of Aboriginal Title on Haida Gwaii, while...
March 14, 2024
English River First Nation and the Government of Canada sign agreement on Canada’s failure to uphold the cows and ploughs promise in Treaty 10
NationTalk: Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada – English River First Nation, Patuanak, Treaty 10 Territory, Saskatchewan – Crown Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada. The Government of Canada is working to renew the relationships between the Crown and Indigenous Peoples in Canada based on the affirmation of rights, respect, co-operation, and partnership. Chief Alfred...
March 12, 2024
Report Finds Indigenous-Led Housing Essential to Addressing Increased Risk of Homelessness for Indigenous Peoples with Diverse Abilities
NationTalk: Unceded traditional territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations, Vancouver BC – The Aboriginal Housing Management Association (AHMA) is pleased to share that we have published, Exploring Inclusive Housing for Indigenous Peoples Living with Diverse Abilities Across British Columbia: An Environmental Scan, a report examining the accessibility of housing supports...
March 12, 2024
Government of Canada supports Indigenous climate action with new funding stream under the Indigenous Leadership Fund
NationTalk: Environment and Climate Change Canada – Indigenous partners are making significant contributions to lowering Canada’s greenhouse gas emissions and producing green energy through Indigenous-owned and Indigenous-led renewable energy projects. Supporting Indigenous climate leadership is key to helping Canada meet its 2030 emissions reduction target and net-zero emissions by 2050. Today, the Honourable Steven Guilbeault,...
March 11, 2024
Supporting Liability Management on Indigenous Land
NationTalk: Since the beginning of the Site Rehabilitation Program in May 2020, Alberta’s government has been working with Indigenous communities, Indigenous businesses, the Indian Resource Council and the Metis Settlements General Council to perform well, pipeline, and oil and gas site closure and reclamation work. As part of the Site Rehabilitation Program, the Government of...
March 11, 2024
The Latest Risk to the BC Natural Resource Sector: Government Uses Little Known Law to Freeze Mining Rights Unless First Nations Consent
March 11, 2024 Business Law Bulletin 4 minute read Robin M. Junger*, Timothy John Murphy*, Cory Kent*, Joan M. Young*, Sasa Jarvis* NationTalk: McMillan LLP: Business Law Bulletin – On March 6, 2024, one of the largest annual mineral exploration and mining conferences in the world ended in Toronto. The very next day, the BC government announced four Cabinet orders[1] that upended various rights of prospectors...
March 8, 2024
City of Calgary
Municipal Calls to Action The Truth and Reconciliation Commission Final Report calls on municipalities to deliver specific outcomes for the following 5 Calls to Action: Call to Action Description Specific Outcome C2A # 43 UN Declaration (UNDRIP) Fully adopt and implement UNDRIP as the framework for reconciliation C2A # 47 Royal Proclamation and Covenant Repudiate...
March 8, 2024
City of Victoria
Municipal Calls to Action The Truth and Reconciliation Commission Final Report calls on municipalities to deliver specific outcomes for the following 5 Calls to Action: Call to Action Description Specific Outcome C2A # 43 UN Declaration (UNDRIP) Fully adopt and implement UNDRIP as the framework for reconciliation C2A # 47 Royal Proclamation and Covenant Repudiate...
March 8, 2024
City of Winnipeg
Municipal Calls to Action The Truth and Reconciliation Commission Final Report calls on municipalities to deliver specific outcomes for the following 5 Calls to Action: Call to Action Description Specific Outcome C2A # 43 UN Declaration (UNDRIP) Fully adopt and implement UNDRIP as the framework for reconciliation C2A # 47 Royal Proclamation and Covenant Repudiate...
March 8, 2024
Government of Yukon preparing for wildfire season
NationTalk: The Government of Yukon is preparing for the coming wildfire season by investing in wildfire response capacity and supporting wildfire resiliency in Yukon communities. In Budget 2024–25, the government is investing in improving planning, communications and capacity initiatives to better prepare for climate emergencies like wildfires. The government continues to fund community-led FireSmart projects...
March 7, 2024
City of Edmonton
Municipal Calls to Action The Truth and Reconciliation Commission Final Report calls on municipalities to deliver specific outcomes for the following 5 Calls to Action: Call to Action Description Specific Outcome C2A # 43 UN Declaration (UNDRIP) Fully adopt and implement UNDRIP as the framework for reconciliation C2A # 47 Royal Proclamation and Covenant Repudiate...
March 7, 2024
City of Regina
Municipal Calls to Action The Truth and Reconciliation Commission Final Report calls on municipalities to deliver specific outcomes for the following 5 Calls to Action: Call to Action Description Specific Outcome C2A # 43 UN Declaration (UNDRIP) Fully adopt and implement UNDRIP as the framework for reconciliation C2A # 47 Royal Proclamation and Covenant Repudiate...
March 7, 2024
City of Saskatoon
Municipal Calls to Action The Truth and Reconciliation Commission Final Report calls on municipalities to deliver specific outcomes for the following 5 Calls to Action: Call to Action Description Specific Outcome C2A # 43 UN Declaration (UNDRIP) Fully adopt and implement UNDRIP as the framework for reconciliation C2A # 47 Royal Proclamation and Covenant Repudiate...
March 7, 2024
City of Thunder Bay
Municipal Calls to Action The Truth and Reconciliation Commission Final Report calls on municipalities to deliver specific outcomes for the following 5 Calls to Action: Call to Action Description Specific Outcome C2A # 43 UN Declaration (UNDRIP) Fully adopt and implement UNDRIP as the framework for reconciliation C2A # 47 Royal Proclamation and Covenant Repudiate...
March 7, 2024
City of Vancouver
Municipal Calls to Action The Truth and Reconciliation Commission Final Report calls on municipalities to deliver specific outcomes for the following 5 Calls to Action: Call to Action Description Specific Outcome C2A # 43 UN Declaration (UNDRIP) Fully adopt and implement UNDRIP as the framework for reconciliation. C2A # 47 Royal Proclamation and Covenant Repudiate...
March 7, 2024
Kahnawake gets guarantee from Quebec that community will get help cleaning up spill
APTN News: The grand chief of the Mohawk community of Kahnawake says that Quebec Premier François Legault will be providing resources to help mitigate an oil spill that occurred in the neighbouring municipality of Chateauguay and has leaked into the territory. “There was definitely a commitment made,” said Grand Chief Kahsennenhawe Sky-Deer following her meeting...
March 6, 2024
Inuvialuit Regional Corporation and Canada move forward on reconciliation as Treaty Partners
Taking care: We recognize this news release may contain information that is difficult for many and that our efforts to honour Survivors and families may act as an unwelcome reminder for those who have suffered hardships through generations of government policies that were harmful to Indigenous Peoples A national residential school crisis line offers emotional...
March 5, 2024
First Nations and Ontario One Step Closer to Building All-Season Roads in the Ring of Fire
NationTalk: TORONTO – The Ontario government, Marten Falls First Nation and Webequie First Nation have signed an agreement to develop community infrastructure projects that could support future development opportunities in the area, including building all-seasons roads to the mineral-rich Ring of Fire region. “I want to commend Marten Falls First Nation Chief Bruce Achneepineskum and...
March 4, 2024
Host First Nations support the Vancouver Park Board dissolution
NationTalk: CityNews – The xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations have told the B.C. government and the City of Vancouver that they support the dissolution of the Vancouver Park Board. In a letter obtained by CityNews, the three Host Nations say they will immediately begin working on the transition process. “We have asked the MST Technical Team to meet with...
March 1, 2024
First Nations who’ve gone years without clean drinking water hope compensation signals a ‘new dawn’
As claims process comes to a close, legal commitments remain to ensure clean drinking water for years to come CBC News: With the deadline just a week away, the law firm representing victims of unsafe drinking water in First Nation communities is urging those who qualify to file their claims for long-awaited compensation. After a years-long...
March 1, 2024
Ontario Makes Historic Investment to Expand Forest Sector Innovation
NationTalk: TIMMINS – The Government of Ontario is delivering on its commitment to build a stronger forest sector by making an historic investment of $60 million in the Forest Biomass Program. Over the next three years, the program will make targeted investments in forest sector initiatives to develop the economic potential and environmental benefits of...
March 1, 2024
Duncan’s First Nation celebrates the opening of a new water treatment plant
NationTalk: Indigenous Services Canada – Duncan’s First Nation, a close-knit community in northern Alberta, recently celebrated the opening of their new water treatment plant, ensuring safe, clean, and reliable drinking water for the community now and for future generations. This collaborative project between Duncan’s First Nation and Indigenous Services Canada replaces the community’s outdated water...
February 27, 2024
Government of Yukon shares latest progress report for the Yukon’s Housing Action Plan
NationTalk: The Government of Yukon, in partnership with members of the Housing Action Plan Implementation Committee, has published the Housing Action Plan’s latest progress report for April 2022 to December 2023. The report provides a high-level analysis of the Yukon’s housing landscape and summarizes the progress, milestones and key achievements made under the Housing Action...
February 23, 2024
The struggle to trust while conserving nature in the North
First Nation leadership took their turns to tell stories and voice their concerns and hopes for the proposed marine conservation area on the James Bay coastline. Photo by Matteo Cimellaro / Canada’s National Observer Listen to article Canada’s National Observer: Around 100 people gathered this week in the Kashechewan First Nation High School gym to celebrate...
February 23, 2024
The Government of Canada invests in Indigenous communities to enhance community-based marine response capacity as part of the Oceans Protection Plan
Nationtalk: Canadian Coast Guard, Ottawa, Ontario – The Government of Canada is working in partnership with Indigenous communities across the country to improve safety on the water through the Oceans Protection Plan. Indigenous communities are often the first to respond to marine incidents in remote areas and are an instrumental partner in our search and...
February 23, 2024
More supports coming for people experiencing homelessness in Victoria
NationTalk: VICTORIA – A memorandum of understanding (MOU) has been formalized between the Province and the City of Victoria to co-ordinate rapid supports for people experiencing homelessness in the community. “People experiencing homelessness in Victoria will have better access to a range of services through this agreement between the Province and the City of Victoria,”...
February 23, 2024
Premier Kinew and Minister Vandal announce support for the Arctic Gateway Group in northern Manitoba
NationTalk: Today in Churchill, Premier Wab Kinew and Dan Vandal, minister for PrairiesCan announced a joint investment of up to $60 million to the Arctic Gateway Group (AGG). This combined funding from the governments of Canada and Manitoba will finish work on the Hudson Bay Railway, start to redevelop the Port of Churchill, and further...
February 22, 2024
Building more homes that Canadians can afford in Cape Breton / Unama’ki
NationTalk: Right now, in communities across the country, building affordable housing is too hard. That’s why the federal government is working with municipalities to break down barriers and build more homes, faster so Canadians – whether they are just starting out, growing their families, or aging in security – can find a place to call...
February 22, 2024
Indigenous Green Economy Initiative
NationTalk: The Indigenous Green Energy Participation Grant Program is an economic participation instrument that supports Indigenous communities, suppliers, and businesses to take part in the green economy and have impactful and transformational effects on the transition towards sustainable green economies. This inaugural grant program will launch at the National Indigenous Green Technology Conference in February...
February 22, 2024
Development agreement signed with Amlamgog First Nation
NationTalk: FREDERICTON (GNB) – The provincial government has signed a development agreement with Amlamgog (Fort Folly) First Nation to support the community’s priorities related to housing, salmon conservation, a transition to green transportation and entrepreneurship. “Addressing the immediate priorities of the community is an important step in improving the lives of its residents,” said Indigenous...
February 21, 2024
Matsqui First Nation receives $59M for loss of land 116 years ago
Claim involves land removed from Matsqui reserve in 1908 by Canada to build a tramway CBC News: The Matsqui First Nation will receive $59 million under Canada’s Specific Claim Policy for the historic loss of reserve land going back 116 years. The claim involves a corridor of land that was removed from the Matsqui reserve in 1908 by Canada, and given to the Vancouver...
February 21, 2024
Local group asks for new seat on Hamilton council to represent Indigenous community
The Indigenous-specific council seat dovetails with the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s calls to action, says Lyndon George NationTalk: The Hamilton Spectator – A local Indigenous consultation group is asking Hamilton city officials to pursue a new council seat to represent their community members. Turning the request into reality would require changes to provincial legislation, but...
February 19, 2024
Leaders meet for first Yukon Forum of 2024
This is a joint news release between the Government of Yukon, the Council of Yukon First Nations and Yukon First Nations governments. Premier Ranj Pillai, Council of Yukon First Nations Grand Chief Peter Johnston, Yukon First Nations Chiefs and Government of Yukon Cabinet members met in Whitehorse today for the first Yukon Forum of 2024....
February 19, 2024
Inherent rights highlighted at the 8th annual Anishinabek Nation Lands and Resources Forum
By Kelly Anne Smith NationTalk: AnishinabekNews.ca – NORTH BAY— Concerns of climate change, extreme mining claims, and the health of the Great Lakes were heard over three days at the 8th annual Anishinabek Nation Lands and Resources Forum, Kina-Gego-Naabadosin – Everything is Connected, at the Best Western in North Bay, Ont., from February 13 to...
February 16, 2024
Manitoba chooses safe drinking water over sand extraction project
Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew speaks at an event in Winnipeg, on Thursday, Jan. 18, 2024. The Manitoba government has nixed a contentious sand extraction project proposed by Sio Silica. THE CANADIAN PRESS/John Woods Listen to article Canada’s National Observer: The Canadian Press – WINNIPEG — The Manitoba government has nixed a contentious sand extraction project that...
February 15, 2024
Haida Nation recognition Bill making its way through the Senate first
“Our people recognized our inherent right to govern our lands and waters in a good way, to steward and speak for the beings and the supernaturals, and to uphold our inherent responsibility to care for our homelands.” —Council of the Haida Nation President Gaagwiis (Jason Aslop) Council of the Haida Nation President Gaagwiis (Jason Aslop)...
February 15, 2024
Manitoba premier says he’s confident landfill search for remains will start this year
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Manitoba Wab Kinew shake hands at a news conference in Winnipeg on Thursday. Photo: Tamara Pimentel/APTN. CBC Indigenous: Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew said Thursday he is confident a landfill search for the remains of two slain First Nations women will begin this year, while the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs said...
February 14, 2024
Budget 2024 must stand up the Indigenous loan guarantee program
So far, Ontario and Alberta’s programs have unlocked $1.5 billion in equity investments By Sharleen Gale, Willie Sellers, Priscilla Mueller, Andrew John, Darrell Beaulieu| NationTalk: The Hub – With the legal implementation of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples in Canada, a paradigm shift is underway around how governments and industry successfully advance natural...
February 9, 2024
Greens tap Fairy Creek land defender Rainbow Eyes for deputy leader
Rainbow Eyes (top left) leads prayers and songs at the base of Big Lonely Doug. Photo by @focus.wandering Listen to article Canada’s National Observer: The federal Green Party’s leadership team is expanding with the reappointment of an old-growth forest defender as another deputy leader. “We are immensely pleased and honoured that Rainbow Eyes, currently standing convicted of criminal...
February 8, 2024
Conservative MP walks back comments on First Nations water plants amid criticism
The Globe and Mail: The Canadian Press – After drawing criticism earlier this week for saying that some First Nations are burning down water treatment plants because of the federal Liberal government, a Conservative MP is now walking back his comments. Saskatchewan MP Kevin Waugh made the assertion in the House of Commons on Monday...
February 5, 2024
Official opening of a new living environment for 42 Indigenous families studying in Trois-Rivières
NationTalk: TROIS-RIVIÈRES, QC – The governments of Quebec and Canada and the City of Trois-Rivières today marked the official opening of the Waska Witcihitowin community living environment. Spearheaded by the Société immobilière du Regroupement des centres d’amitié autochtones du Québec (SIRCAAQ), this nearly $37-million project is intended for Indigenous students and their families. This project was conceived by and for Indigenous people,...
February 1, 2024
Government of Saskatchewan Announces New Supportive Housing in Regina
NationTalk: Today, the Government of Saskatchewan and Nēwo-Yōtina Friendship Centre announced 20 new supportive housing units in Regina. The spaces are part of the Provincial Approach to Homelessness, announced in October 2023. “We are pleased to be working with Nēwo-Yōtina Friendship Centre and the Saskatchewan Health Authority to improve the lives of Saskatchewan people who are in need of...
February 1, 2024
Chair of Ministerial Working Group on Regulatory Efficiency for Clean Growth Projects issues statement
NationTalk: Privy Council Office, Ottawa, Ontario – Today, the Honourable Seamus O’Regan Jr., Minister of Labour and Seniors, and Chair of the Ministerial Working Group on Regulatory Efficiency for Clean Growth Projects, issued the following statement: “An efficient and effective review process for clean energy, critical minerals, transportation and other major projects is essential. It keeps...
January 31, 2024
Thunder Bay Launches Groundbreaking Indigenous Economic Impact Study
By NNL Digital News Update A Collaborative Effort for Inclusive Economic Development NationTalk:: NNL Digital News Update – THUNDER BAY – BUSINESS – An initiative for assessing the economic contributions of Indigenous communities in Thunder Bay has been launched. The Thunder Bay Community Economic Development Commission (CEDC) collaborates with Fort William First Nation, the Anishnawbe Business Professional...
January 30, 2024
PAGC Task Force Raises Alarm on Upcoming Wildfire Season, Urges Proactive Measures
Nationtalk: (Pre-Confederation, Treaty 5, 6, 8 & 10) Stanley Mission, Sask. – Prince Albert Grand Council (PAGC) Wildfire Task Force recently met to deliberate on the imminent wildfire threats to northern Saskatchewan anticipated in the upcoming season. Established in 2018, the PAGC Task Force, which includes First Nation leaders and wildfire management experts, underscores the...
January 30, 2024
Ontario Supporting Growth and Innovation in the Forest Sector
NationTalk: THUNDER BAY – The Government of Ontario is supporting economic growth and creating jobs with the second phase of funding under the new Forest Biomass Program. The $9.4 million investment will develop the untapped economic potential and environmental benefits of new and emerging uses of underutilized wood and mill by-products, collectively known as forest...
January 29, 2024
B.C. prepares legislation to share decision-making power with Indigenous groups over public lands
JUSTINE HUNTER VICTORIA The Globe and Mail: The B.C. government is preparing legislation for this spring to allow the province to share its decision-making powers over public lands with Indigenous groups. The Land Act governs access and use of public land, which covers 94 per cent of the province, and there are roughly 40,000 active...
January 29, 2024
Council of Yukon First Nations unveils downtown Whitehorse outreach van
Initiative aims to provide culturally-safe support for vulnerable First Nations people, improve safety CBC Indigenous: The Council of Yukon First Nations is launching a mobile outreach van in downtown Whitehorse in a bid to offer more culturally-safe support for vulnerable Indigenous people in the community and to improve area safety. Starting this week, a team of outreach...
January 29, 2024
Manitoba Government Expands Funding for Youth Mental Health
NationTalk: The Manitoba government is increasing funding to three successful programs that support youth across the province, Housing, Addictions and Homelessness Minister Bernadette Smith, minister responsible for mental health, announced today.“Young people need the support of their peers, schools, families and communities to thrive,” said Smith. “We are pleased to provide additional funding to community-based programs...
January 29, 2024
AHMA Welcomes Long-Awaited Changes to RTA for Supportive Housing Operators
NationTalk: Recent changes to BC’s Residential Tenancy Act help enhance risk management for supportive housing operators and safety for their tenants, which the Aboriginal Housing Management Association (AHMA) strongly advocated for in early 2023. Unceded traditional territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations, Vancouver BC (January 29, 2024) – The Province...
January 27, 2024
Snuneymuxw land agreement will see 80 hectares returned to Vancouver Island First Nation
Click on the following link to view the video: https://player.zype.com/embed/65b5ac42a1627d0001ecd22b.html?api_key=wPVS5IQoMHNsQvfrGuKJ9spKSKCXxsjs0Bf1UVshCI5sUtrj&controls=true First Peoples Law Report: CHEK News – The stroke of a pen may never have held as much significance for the Snuneymuxw First Nation as it did Saturday when Chief Michael Wyse and Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations Gary Anandasangaree signed an agreement that returns 80.09...
January 26, 2024
Warming centre hopes to take the chill off in Whitehorse
Warming centre part of territorial government’s downtown community safety plan. Safe at Home is operating a warming centre at the former High Country Inn building in Whitehorse. Photo: Sara Connors/APTN APTN News: A non-profit organization in Whitehorse has opened a warming centre in hopes of keeping vulnerable people out of the cold this winter. Safe...
January 26, 2024
Canada boosts conservation and restoration efforts with investments in 27 new Indigenous-Led Natural Climate Solutions
NationTalk: Environment and Climate Change Canada, Gatineau, Quebec Indigenous peoples have been stewards of the land, water, and ice since time immemorial. Across the country, First Nations, Inuit, and Métis are braiding Indigenous Knowledge with modern science to offer solutions to climate change and biodiversity loss, while safeguarding the natural spaces we all depend on. Today,...
January 25, 2024
New phase in the dialogue on Hydro-Québec’s Action Plan 2035
NationTalk: In November 2023, Hydro-Québec published its Action Plan 2035 – Towards a Decarbonized and Prosperous Québec, with the goals to better serve our customers, decarbonize Québec and contribute to its economic development. Over the past few months, the company has explained this plan to the general public, to over 30 organizations, as well as to the...
January 24, 2024
The new supportive housing complex will complete this year
Construction is on schedule, and all homes are expected to open in late summer 2024; Shrief Fadl Saddman Zaman a day ago NationTalk: Burns Lake Lake Districts News – The construction of the new supportive housing complex known as Dzee Inzu Yikh, the former Burns Lake Motor Inn will be completed this year. Shrief Fadl, BC...
January 22, 2024
Government of Canada Launches Request for Proposals Process for an Indigenous-Led National Housing Centre
NationTalk: OTTAWA, ON – Advancing the Urban, Rural and Northern Indigenous Housing Strategy is a priority for the Government of Canada, and an important commitment on the path toward reconciliation. Today, Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) launched a formal Request for Proposal (RFP) process, on behalf of the Government of Canada, to establish an...
January 19, 2024
Funding will improve cultural safety for Indigenous people during emergencies
NationTalk: VICTORIA – Communities across B.C. will receive funding to enhance cultural safety in local emergency management, helping ensure First Nations, Métis and Inuit people are treated with inclusivity and respect during emergencies. “We have heard that emergency management supports can be delivered in a more culturally safe and inclusive way. Supporting Indigenous people and...
January 18, 2024
Manitoba First Nations, governments sign deal to study protection of pristine Seal River watershed
Feasibility study could pave way for untouched land become a national park reserve, federal minister says CBC News: Representatives from Indigenous communities in Manitoba say they’re proud to lead the way in protecting one of the few large untouched stretches of land in Canada. The Manitoba and federal governments and the Indigenous-led Seal River Watershed Alliance have signed...
January 18, 2024
Empowering and supporting communities
NationTalk: Alberta’s government has launched two new grant programs to support community-driven diversity, inclusivity and anti-racism initiatives. In December 2023, the government separated the Multiculturalism and Anti-Racism Grant program into two new programs, an Ethnocultural Grant program and an Anti-Racism Grant program. The separation follows advice from the Alberta Anti-Racism Advisory Council and will better...
January 18, 2024
Federal Government Supports New Homes in Northwest Territories
NationTalk: The federal government is investing nearly $19 million through the third phase of the Rapid Housing Initiative’s (RHI) Project Stream to help build more than 50 new homes for Indigenous Peoples across the Northwest Territories. The announcement was made by Michael McLeod, Member of Parliament for the Northwest Territories — on behalf of the Honourable Sean Fraser,...
January 18, 2024
Athabasca Chief Allan Adam consulting with Ottawa on First Nations Clean Water Act
Chief Allan Adam of the Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation (ACFN) near Fort McMurray attended the consultation with Min. Patricia Hajdu on Bill C-61 First Peoples Law Report: Edmonton Journal – Water — and last year’s tailings fluid leaks from Imperial Oil’s Kearl oilsands mine — were top of mind when Indigenous leaders and technicians from...
January 17, 2024
More affordable housing in Nova Scotia
NationTalk: Today, Jaime Battiste, Member of Parliament for Sydney – Victoria, on behalf of the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities, alongside Terry Paul, Chief and CEO, Membertou, announced over 9 million in funding for Membertou First Nation from the third round of the Rapid Housing Initiative (RHI). Under the Projects Stream of the RHI,...
January 16, 2024
Wab Kinew and the rocky political road to becoming the first Anishinaabe premier of a province in Canada
APTN News: Right out of the gate, Wab Kinew was seen as a rising star and a potential future leader of the Manitoba NDP. But before even being elected, there were tough questions about his past. In 2016, Kinew, a former rapper and broadcaster, was running for the NDP in Winnipeg’s Fort Rouge riding. He...
January 16, 2024
CER releases Crown Consultation and Accommodation Report for the NEBC Connector Project
NationTalk: The Canada Energy Regulator (CER), in its role as Crown Consultation Coordinator, has released the Crown Consultation and Accommodation Report for the NorthRiver Midstream NEBC Connector Project. The Report is the culmination of more than two years of CER consultation activities with 35 Indigenous communities, and demonstrates the Government of Canada’s commitment to advancing Reconciliation with Indigenous...
January 15, 2024
Statement from Premier Ranj Pillai on recent meetings with Kluane First Nation, White River First Nation and Carcross/Tagish First Nation
NationTalk: Premier Ranj Pillai has issued the following statement: “This past week I had the pleasure of connecting separately with the government leadership of Kluane First Nation, White River First Nation and Carcross/Tagish First Nation in their respective communities. “At these meetings with Yukon First Nation Chiefs and Council members, we discussed items of common...
January 15, 2024
Winnipeg 150 graphic showcases city’s journey to reconciliation, connection to earth
City of Winnipeg: This year, we’re marking an important milestone with a beautiful piece of art. We’re unveiling a new graphic for Winnipeg’s 150th anniversary which represents our city as we know it, while acknowledging the importance of our Indigenous roots. In anticipation of Winnipeg 150, we worked with a local artist, Jordan Stranger of Totem...
January 12, 2024
Helping housing providers fight inflation
NationTalk: Alberta’s government is providing housing providers with a one-time $10-million increase in operating funding to help them continue to house low-income Albertans during high inflation. As Alberta’s housing providers face higher expenses due to inflation, the government is taking immediate action to support them and help keep units open. The additional funding to 87...
January 11, 2024
Snuneymuxw and B.C. land transfer fosters economic development
NationTalk: SNUNEYMUXW TERRITORY (NANAIMO) – Snuneymuxw First Nation and the Province are taking a major step in their shared reconciliation journey with a completed transfer of 212 hectares of land on Te’tuxwtun, known as Mount Benson East. This is the first step in the implementation of the Snuneymuxw First Nation and British Columbia Land Transfer...
January 11, 2024
Robinson Huron Nations sign Treaty settlement agreement
The annuities case settlement, announced in June, has now been signed by all the First Nations — next stop, signatures from Ontario and Canada NationTalk: Sudbury.com – Further down the path to the settlement for each member, the Robinson Huron Treaty signatory nations have now signed the settlement agreement. Next to sign will be Ontario,...
January 8, 2024
Statement from Premier Pillai on critical minerals and energy meeting with Minister Wilkinson
Premier Pillai has issued the following statement: NationTalk: “On January 5, I met with the Minister of Energy and Natural Resources Jonathan Wilkinson about mining and critical minerals in the Yukon alongside Yukon MP Brendan Hanley and Yukon Minister of Energy, Mines and Resources John Streicker. “I was also pleased to be joined by representatives...
January 6, 2024
Statement by Minister Anandasangaree, Minister Vandal and Minister Hajdu on the Eighth Anniversary of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Final Report
Originally posted on Dec. 18, 2023 Statement NationTalk: Ottawa, Ontario, Unceded Algonquin Traditional Territory – December 15, 2023 – Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada The Honourable Gary Anandasangaree, Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations, the Honourable Dan Vandal, Minister of Northern Affairs and the Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Indigenous Services, issued the following statement to...
December 31, 2023
How reconciliation is tied up in the Ring of Fire
In remote Ontario, Marten Falls First Nation hopes to move past more than 100 years of subjugation, as it opens the door to critical minerals development and an all-season road that will change their lives NIALL MCGEE, PHOTOGRAPHY AND VIDEO BY FRED LUM, THE GLOBE AND MAIL MARTEN FALLS FIRST NATION, ONT. PUBLISHED DECEMBER 31,...
December 20, 2023
Miawpukek First Nation improving water system to provide clean water to entire community
NationTalk: Indigenous Services Canada – Miawpukek First Nation is embarking on a significant water system upgrade to ensure sustained access to safe and clean drinking water in the community. The installation of booster pumps and upgrades to the water treatment plant will ensure ample water pressure across the entire community. Situated at the mouth of...
December 19, 2023
Minister Vandal announces an investment supporting food security in Wekweètì, NWT
NationTalk: Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency – CanNor funding of $600,000 to the Tłı̨chǫ Investment Corporation will help with the construction of Wekweètì’s new grocery store Food security contributes to people’s physical and mental health and well-being. As many Northerners in remote and Indigenous communities face high rates of food insecurity, the Government of Canada...
December 19, 2023
Northern Action Plan (NAP) 2023-2028 – 2.57 billion dollars for the future of Québec’s northern territory
NationTalk: BAIE-COMEAU, QC – Over the next five years, the gouvernement du Québec and its partners will invest nearly 2.6 billion dollars in the sustainable development of Québec’s northern territory. The Northern Action Plan 2023–2028 (NAP 23–28) was created in response to the economic, social and environmental development issues specific to the North, and presents 45 new actions...
December 18, 2023
A First Nations-owned company’s focus on forest rehabilitation through wildfire risk reduction and fibre utilization
NationTalk: Prince George Daily News: Central Chilcotin Rehabilitation Ltd. (CCR), a First Nations-owned and operated company, has been making significant strides in the forest industry through their participation in wildfire risk reduction, stand rehabilitation and fibre utilization projects. CCR is a joint venture between the Tŝideldel First Nation and Tl’etinqox Government, both Tsilhqot’in Nation communities,...
December 15, 2023
Announcement of firefighting money for training good news says Athabasca Chipewyan chief
APTN News: The chief of Athabasca Chipewyan Nation in northern Alberta says more resources on the ground would have limited the damage caused by one of the worst wildfire seasons on record. “The fire that happened in our community, it started within 6 km from the community – but within that 6 km if they...
December 15, 2023
Indigenous organizations can apply to lead new national housing centre in new year
Request for proposals expected in January CBC Indigenous: The federal government will be choosing an Indigenous-led organization to lead a National Indigenous Housing Centre in the new year and some housing advocates are cautiously optimistic about the new plan. On Wednesday, the government announced it will put out a request for proposals (RFP) in January...
December 14, 2023
Yukon’s new chief justice on Indigenous representation and reconciliation in the justice system
Leonard Marchand, named chief justice of Court of Appeal, is Syilx and a member of the Okanagan Indian Band CBC Indigenous: The Yukon Court of Appeal has a new chief justice. Leonard Marchand, who is Syilx and a member of the Okanagan Indian Band, was appointed to the role last week. Marchand was also appointed...
December 13, 2023
New affordable rental homes open for Indigenous people in Sooke
NationTalk: SOOKE – Indigenous families, elders and people in Sooke now have access to 75 below-market homes, with the opening of a new purpose-built rental building at 2170 Charters Rd. “With this opening, we’re providing peace of mind and hope for families and people who need a little extra help to make ends meet,” said...
December 13, 2023
Clean Water bill ‘just the first step,’ NAN grand chief says
Bill C-61 begins a “long process of developing standards and regulations for safe, clean drinking water, wastewater and source water that respects the sovereignty of NAN communities.” NationTalk: NWONewswatch.com – WABIGOON LAKE OJIBWAY NATION – The people in this First Nation community just south of the Trans-Canada Highway were living under a boil-water advisory for...
December 12, 2023
New study benchmarks Indigenous economic contributions and informs action toward Economic Reconciliation in Calgary and Treaty 7 region
NationTalk: Indigenous economic contributions measured for first time Jointly commissioned by Calgary Economic Development and the City of Calgary, and executed by MNP, the Indigenous Economic Contribution Study reports that the Indigenous economy generated a total GDP of $1.5 billion in 2021, approximately 1.2 per cent of Calgary’s total GDP. Of this, First Nations governments contributed $540...
December 11, 2023
Feds introduce bill to set drinking water standards in First Nations
Chief of community under a 28-year boil-water advisory says he wasn’t consulted CBC News: The federal government’s proposed new bill to set drinking water standards in First Nations is being met with mixed reactions. Indigenous Services Minister Patty Hajdu introduced Bill C-61 on Monday in the House of Commons. The proposed law is intended to protect...
December 11, 2023
Human Rights Day: Saskatchewan Named Co-Chair of Federal-Provincial-Territorial Human Rights Conference
2025 Federal-Provincial-Territorial Meeting Will Take Place in Saskatchewan NationTalk: Saskatchewan will co-chair the Continuing Committee of Officials on Human Rights (CCOHR) and Senior Officials Committee Responsible for Human Rights (SOCHR) conference in 2025. “I was honoured that Saskatchewan was selected by a majority of fellow provincial-territorial colleagues to co-chair this important conference with the federal...
December 10, 2023
Indigenous services minister to table First Nations water bill as early as Monday
The Globe and Mail: The Canadian Press – Indigenous Services Minister Patty Hajdu is expected to table much-anticipated legislation to improve water quality in First Nations communities as early as Monday. The bill comes more than a year after Canada repealed previous legislation on safe drinking water for First Nations, and two years after a...
December 9, 2023
Colleagues hail appointment of 1st Indigenous B.C. Chief Justice in court’s history
Leonard Marchand also appointed chief justice of the Court of Appeal of Yukon CBC News:Colleagues and friends are praising the appointment of Leonard Marchand, the first Indigenous chief justice in B.C. history, calling it a historic moment that could advance Indigenous rights. Marchand has previously served at all three levels of the B.C. court system, having...
December 8, 2023
Manon Jeannotte from First Nation in Gaspé appointed Quebec lieutenant governor
‘The priority has always been reconciliation,’ says Jeannotte CBC Indigenous: Manon Jeannotte, who hails from the Mi’kmaq First Nation of Gespeg on the province’s Gaspé Peninsula, has been named the new lieutenant-governor of Quebec. “It’s a source of pride, a recognition,” Jeannotte told Radio-Canada, thanking Prime Minister Justin Trudeau for appointing her to the position. ...
December 8, 2023
Reconciliation-in-Action: Caldwell First Nation hosts first ever conference for municipalities in Southwestern Ontario
Municipal leaders and staff from across Windsor and Essex County are attending a historic conference on “Reconciliation in Action” hosted by the Caldwell First Nation at the Ojibway Nature Centre Friday. The conference for local governments is intended to develop deeper understandings about the history, presence and experience of First Nations people who have lived...
December 7, 2023
New Premier elected in the Northwest Territories
Hay River’s RJ Simpson will be the new Northwest Territories premier APTN News: It is a big day in politics North of 60. Newly elected members of the Northwest Territories legislature have chosen their next premier. R.J. Simpson, who is Métis, is the legislature member for Hay River North, won on the second round of...
December 7, 2023
Revised First Nation and Métis Consultation Policy Framework Effective January 1, 2024
NationTalk: Starting January 1, 2024, the Government of Saskatchewan’s revised First Nation and Métis Consultation Policy Framework (CPF) will come into effect. “The changes made to the CPF were built on the key themes we heard during our engagement process in the fall and winter of 2022,”Government Relations Minister and Minister Responsible for First Nations,...
December 7, 2023
One year since COP15: Protecting nature and strengthening communities in partnership with Indigenous Peoples
NationTalk: Ottawa – First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities have been the guardians of the land, waters, and ice for millennia, and across the country, Indigenous Peoples are leading large-scale efforts to conserve and steward these spaces. By supporting these initiatives, and working together on a shared path of reconciliation, we will continue to protect...
December 7, 2023
Atikamekw community signs relationship framework with provincial government
An Atikamekw community in northern Quebec recently signed a relationship framework with the Quebec government in order to manage forestry and other economic activity in and around the community. First Peoples Law Report: Waterloo Region Record – An Atikamekw community in northern Quebec recently signed a relationship framework with the Quebec government in order to...
December 7, 2023
Agreement to forge new partnerships for municipalities, First Nations
First Peoples Law Report: The Hamilton Spectator – In the spirit of reconciliation, but also as a way to forge new economic partnerships, six municipal and two area First Nations governments will sign what’s being described as a memorandum of respect, understanding and partnership. In the spirit of reconciliation, but also as a way to...
December 7, 2023
FNLC Supports BC’s Release of Distinctions-Based Approach Primer and Clarification of BC’s Position on Métis Rights
FNLC Supports BC’s Release of Distinctions-Based Approach Primer and Clarification of BC’s Position on Métis Rights First Peoples Law Report: (xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish) and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh)/Vancouver, B.C.) The First Nations Leadership Council (FNLC) supports the Province of British Columbia’s (BC) release of its long-overdue Distinctions-Based Approach Primer (Primer) and applauds BC for clarifying its position on Métis...
December 6, 2023
Coastal First Nations get $60M boost from B.C. to protect Great Bear Sea
Coastal First Nations will push ahead with a plan for a marine network to protect the Great Bear Sea after a $60-million investment from the province. Photo B.C. government / Flickr Canada’s National Observer: A $60-million surge in provincial funding will protect the “extraordinary beauty” of B.C.’s Great Bear Sea, said Premier David Eby on...
November 30, 2023
Canada’s new 988 suicide-prevention helpline starts today. Here’s what you need to know
Three-digit number is enlisted in battle against second most common cause of death among young people. The Toronto Star: Three years in the making, Canada’s new three-digit phone number for suicide prevention launches Thursday. Starting at 9 a.m. EST, if someone is thinking about suicide or is worried that someone else is thinking about suicide,...
November 29, 2023
Salmon parks’ in traditional First Nations territory aim to save habitats by stopping old-growth logging
New plan from the Mowachaht/Muchalaht First Nation, aided by the B.C. and federal governments, signals a shift in Indigenous-led conservation across the province The Globe and Mail: Backed by a $15.2-million commitment from the federal government, a First Nations community on the west coast of Vancouver Island intends to buy out forestry tenures to stop...
November 29, 2023
County developing Indigenous Relations Strategy
Corrected from an earlier version. NationTalk: Everything Grande Prairie – The County of Grande Prairie is developing an Indigenous Relations Strategy. County council has directed administration to meet with neighbouring municipalities on this idea. The strategy would determine current and future interactions with Indigenous communities, evaluate the need for an Indigenous Relations Coordinator, and review...
November 24, 2023
New federal water legislation aims to do better on Indigenous rights
APTN News: Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is promising a new version of the Canada Water Act – and one of the improvements, he says, will be in the area of Indigenous rights. What that might mean for Indigenous people and communities is the focus of APTN Investigates: Liquid Law. Earlier this year at the fork of the...
November 24, 2023
Another First Nation, another deal, despite Indigenous anger
New Brunswick’s Progressive Conservative government has made another deal with a First Nation, despite several Indigenous chiefs expressing outrage over its decision to single-handedly cancel their lucrative tax agreements. NationTalk: Hamilton Spectator -The Canadian Press: New Brunswick’s Progressive Conservative government has made another deal with a First Nation, despite several Indigenous chiefs expressing outrage over...
November 23, 2023
Saskatchewan to stop holding back income assistance from First Nations people who receive settlement payments
‘Our government remains committed to the ongoing journey of reconciliation,’ says social services minister CBC Indigenous: The Government of Saskatchewan announced Wednesday that it will stop withholding income assistance from First Nations people who receive more than $15,000 in per capita distributions from settlements. The comes a day after the Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations (FSIN) expressed frustration...
November 22, 2023
Second Dialogue for Life conference of the year emphasizes culture and healing
Life promotion vital to prevent future suicides. APTN News: Delegates at the Dialogue for Life conference in Montreal heard that mental health awareness and support in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic is vital to keeping people stable. “We’re looking to really bring back that connection because a lot of us felt so disconnected over...
November 22, 2023
Renovating and repairing affordable housing units
NationTalk: Alberta’s government is investing $16 million to upgrade 400 affordable housing units so more Albertans have access to safe homes. The province is committed to ensuring Albertans have access to the housing they need. Budget 2023 included $94 million over three years for capital maintenance and renewal funding and this investment is in addition...
November 20, 2023
Second meeting between leaders of national Indigenous organizations and federal, provincial and territorial ministers of Indigenous Affairs concludes in Ottawa
First Peoples Law Report: OTTAWA, UNCEDED ALGONQUIN TERRITORY, ON – On November 15th and 16th, 2023, the Honourable Patty Hajdu, federal Minister of Indigenous Services, and the Honourable Arlene Dunn, Minister of Indigenous Affairs for New Brunswick, together, in Ottawa, convened the second meeting between leaders of the Assembly of First Nations (AFN), Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami (ITK) and the Métis...
November 18, 2023
Indigenous leaders hopeful as Manitoba Premier Kinew takes on reconciliation portfolio
‘It’s very uplifting to be able to hear a premier actually appoint himself to this position’: AMC grand chief CBC Indigenous: The Canadian Press – When Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew took the unconventional move of appointing himself the minister responsible for Indigenous reconciliation, he did so with the intent of strengthening the relationship between the...
November 17, 2023
Hamilton council hoped for ‘fresh start’ with Indigenous community. Leaders reflect on gains, 1 year later
“My hope is we do continue on this good road,’ says HRIC’s Audrey Davis of relationship with council This week, CBC Hamilton is looking back at this council’s first year. This is Part 2 of a three-part series. Read Part 1 here. CBC Indigenous: On a frosty December day in 2022, weeks after Hamilton’s city council was inaugurated, local...
November 17, 2023
Statement from Premier Pillai and Minister McPhee on downtown Whitehorse community safety
Premier Ranj Pillai and Health and Social Services Minister Tracy-Anne McPhee issued the following statement: NationTalk: “On behalf of the Government of Yukon, we want to express our ongoing commitment to fostering safe and thriving communities across the territory. “Downtown Whitehorse is home to incredible businesses, a strong residential community, and significant and essential supports...
November 17, 2023
Affordable homes open near Central Saanich for Indigenous people
NationTalk: SAANICH – An affordable housing development with 28 homes for Indigenous people is now open on the Tsawout First Nation near Central Saanich. “Tsawout First Nation is elated about the new affordable rental housing for working individuals and families built on Nation land,” said Chief Abraham Pelkey. “We would like to raise our hands in...
November 16, 2023
Anishinaabe community in Quebec set to finally get electricity
‘This is going to change our life forever,’ says natural resources director of Kitcisakik CBC Indigenous: In all his 59 years, Jimmy Papatie has never had electricity in his home. He’s bought bottled water, heated his home with firewood, spent tens of thousands of dollars on fuel for a generator, and even grown accustomed to...
November 15, 2023
Canada takes steps to rectify land grab for Pacific Rim park with coastal First Nation
Ditidaht Chief Judi Thomas, Pacheedaht Chief Jeff Jones and Crown-Indigenous Relations Minister Gary Anandasangaree celebrate the return of ?A:?b?e:?s, or Middle Beach, by Parks Canada Wednesday. Photo courtesy Parks Canada Listen to article Canada’s National Observer: The federal government and the Pacheedaht First Nation celebrated an agreement Wednesday to return stewardship control over territory taken without...
November 15, 2023
B.C. prioritizing ecosystem health, biodiversity
NationTalk: VICTORIA – The Province is taking more steps to conserve nature for the long-term health and well-being of communities with the release of a draft biodiversity and ecosystem health framework. “People in B.C. share a deep connection to nature, from our ancient forests and diverse wildlife, to our coastal waters and mountain ranges,” said Nathan...
November 14, 2023
Government of Canada launches the Indigenous Leadership Fund to support First Nations, Inuit, and Métis climate action
From: Environment and Climate Change Canada NationTalk: Environment and Climate Change Canada – Indigenous partners, the original stewards of land, water, and ice, are producing green energy and making significant contributions to lowering Canada’s greenhouse gas emissions through Indigenous-owned and led renewable energy projects. Supporting Indigenous climate leadership is key to helping Canada meet its 2030...
November 10, 2023
Government of Yukon launches five-year Innovation Strategy to grow innovation, drive investment and diversify the economy
FIRST NATIONS Yukon First Nations’ ground-breaking land claim and self-government process has led to modern treaties and governance within the territory and has acted as a model for Indigenous communities around the world. The Yukon’s fourteen First Nations bring exceptional knowledge and perspectives to innovative endeavours on both Settlement Land and broader Traditional Territories. Yukon...
November 10, 2023
Leq’á:mel First Nation and Government of Canada reach agreement to right historic wrong
First Nations Law Report: – Yahoo!Finance (CNW Group) – LEQ’Á:MEL FIRST NATION, DEROCHE, BC – Today, Chief Alice Thompson, Leq’á:mel First Nation, and the Honourable Gary Anandasangaree, Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations, announced that the First Nation and the Government of Canada have reached a settlement of the Leq’á:mel First Nation’s Klatwaas Colonial Reserve Reduction Specific Claim. Minister Anandasangaree will be joining Chief Thompson in...
November 9, 2023
NWT Poll Shows Major Support for Northern Stewardship and Other Outcomes of the NWT PFP Initiative
NationTalk: Yellowknife: The vast majority of Northwest Territories residents support the core aspects of the Northwest Territories Project Finance for Permanence initiative currently being developed, according to a new poll conducted within the NWT. Support was nearly unanimous for some of the core elements expected to be included in the initiative, such as efforts to help...
November 6, 2023
Canada supports 103 new affordable homes in Vancouver
NationTalk: Vancouver – Construction is underway on 103 units for Indigenous residents and people experiencing or at risk of homelessness in Vancouver’s Downtown East Side community. Today, combined funding of more than $64 million was announced towards the project at 320 E Hastings Street. The First United project is a partnership between the Government of Canada, through the Canada...
November 3, 2023
Montreal organization moves ahead with permanent location for emergency shelter
A local organization that helps the Indigenous homeless population in Montreal says it secured a permanent location for its emergency shelter, replacing the temporary location known as PAQ2. Stacy Boucher-Anthony, executive director of Indigenous Project Quebec, said that when PAQ2 was launched, it was not set up to be a permanent shelter and lacks some...
November 3, 2023
A billion dollars for nature in B.C. as long-awaited agreement is signed
The tripartite nature agreement comes with new and old funding to protect old-growth forests, species at risk The newly minted nature agreement includes dedicated funding to protect old-growth forests. Photo: Taylor Roades / The Narwhal The Narwhal: Federal, provincial and First Nations leaders gathered against the backdrop of Burrard Inlet Friday to announce a long-awaited...
November 3, 2023
Government of Canada, British Columbia and the First Nations Leadership Council sign a historic tripartite nature conservation framework agreement
NationTalk: Environment and Climate Change Canada – Today, the governments of Canada and British Columbia (B.C.), and the First Nations Leadership Council (FNLC) signed a first of its kind, tripartite framework agreement to protect and conserve biodiversity, habitats, and species at risk in the province. The Framework Agreement enables action rooted in recognition of First...
November 3, 2023
The Government of Canada supports Indigenous-led programs to help end Indigenous homelessness in Edmonton through the Red Road Healing Society
From: Infrastructure Canada NationTalk: Infrastructure Canada – Edmonton, Alberta — The work to end Indigenous homelessness in Edmonton will be bolstered by an investment of more than $6.9 million, as announced today by the Minister Randy Boissonnault and Joanne Pompana, Director of the Red Road Healing Society. The Red Road Healing Society (RRHS) is the newest Indigenous...
November 2, 2023
Quebec judge rules Kanien’kehá:ka have treaty rights to trade tobacco
Ruling called a ‘landmark decision’ and ‘extremely helpful’ for Indigenous people asserting treaty rights CBC Indigenous: A Quebec Superior Court judge ordered a stay of proceedings on charges related to tobacco trade against two Kanien’kehá:ka (Mohawk) men on Wednesday, citing treaty rights. Derek White and Hunter Montour, both from Kahnawà:ke, south of Montreal, were granted a permanent stay...
November 2, 2023
B.C., First Nations leaders gather to advance relationships
NationTalk: XʷMƏƟKʷƏYƏM (MUSQUEAM), SḴWX̱WÚ7MESH (SQUAMISH) AND SƏLILWƏTAɬ (TSLEIL-WAUTUTH) TERRITORIES / VANCOUVER – First Nations leaders and provincial officials from across B.C. are coming together for the eighth B.C. Cabinet and First Nations Leaders’ Gathering, working together to recognize, respect and advance government-to-government relationships. Premier David Eby, together with Grand Chief Stewart Phillip, Robert Phillips, Regional...
November 2, 2023
Alberta Indigenous Opportunities Corporation’s loan guarantee capacity to increase to $3 billion
NationTalk: CALGARY, AB – Alberta Indigenous Opportunities Corporation (AIOC) is thrilled to announce a significant increase in its loan guarantee capacity. The Government of Alberta has provided an immediate increase in the fiscal capacity of AIOC to provide loan guarantees for Indigenous communities from $1 billion to $2 billion and will further increase that amount...
November 2, 2023
BREAKING: $10B RHT annuities settlement approved
Garden River First Nation last community to sign off on historic settlement agreement between Robinson Huron Treaty beneficiaries, Canada and Ontario; settlement now officially a done deal First Peoples Law Report: SOOTODAY.com – Garden River First Nation has officially approved the $10-billion settlement agreementbetween Robinson Huron Treaty beneficiaries, Canada and Ontario for unpaid treaty annuity increases dating...
November 1, 2023
Pine Creek First Nation reaches $200 million treaty settlement
Author of the article: Dave Baxter Local Journalism Initiative reporter First Peoples Law Report: The Winnipeg Sun – A Manitoba First Nation may soon see a massive financial windfall that would see the community receive more than $200,000,000 from the federal government, and every band member receive a $30,000 payout, because of a promise made...
October 31, 2023
$300K safety pilot program based on Bear Clan Patrol coming to downtown Whitehorse
The Whitehorse Emergency Shelter on Alexander street. (File) Photo: Sara Connors/APTN News APTN News: Yukon government is investing around $300,000 into a new mobile safety pilot project for Whitehorse’s downtown core. The pilot, which will be operated by the Council of Yukon First Nations (CYFN), aims to address downtown safety concerns after a popular bakery announced...
October 31, 2023
NDP government allows Manitoba Hydro to deal directly with Indigenous nations again
Premier Wab Kinew’s cabinet rescinds PC restriction on Crown corporation’s negotiations CBC Indigenous: Manitoba’s NDP government is once again allowing Manitoba Hydro to deal directly with Indigenous nations. Premier Wab Kinew said Tuesday his cabinet has rescinded a Progressive Conservative order that prevented the Crown corporation from engaging in talks with First Nations, Métis and...
October 27, 2023
Manitoba premier resets relationship with families at Winnipeg ceremony
Families want local landfill search and premier says he’s working on it. Families who met with Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew say they appreciated the meeting and words spoken from the newly elected leader. “It was a beautiful way to re-set that relationship that is needed here in the Manitoba Legislature,” said Long Plain First...
October 26, 2023
Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew Releases First Set of Ministerial Mandate Letters
NationTalk: Today, Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew released four mandate letters that were provided to newly sworn-in members of the executive council, outlining the immediate priorities and key commitments of their ministries. “Manitobans have entrusted us to begin the work of fixing health care,” said Kinew. “A challenge this significant must be shared across several departments....
October 26, 2023
Families, elders, individuals and people living with disabilities from the Lax Kw’alaams Band will soon have access to 70 new affordable homes, with construction underway on a new apartment building near Prince Rupert
NationTalk: “These 70 new homes are part of our commitment to help more Indigenous Peoples live affordably, while being close to family, community and culture, both on and off reserve,” said Ravi Kahlon, Minister of Housing. “We are proud to work with organizations like the Lax Kw’alaams WAAP Housing Society and Indigenous developers like the...
October 25, 2023
First Nations advocates for landfill search look forward to meeting with Manitoba’s new premier
Kinew will meet with families, leaders later this week: Long Plain chief CBC Indigenous: Posted Oct. 24, 2023; Updated Oct. 25 2023) – Manitoba’s new premier is set to meet with the families of two First Nations women whose remains are believed to be in the Prairie Green landfill, north of Winnipeg. Long Plain First...
October 24, 2023
New coastal First Nations deal maps ‘future’ of forestry in B.C.
Wei Wai Kum Chief Chris Roberts and Dallas Smith, president of Na̲nwak̲olas Council, speaking on a new forestry deal between four First Nations and Western Forest Products on Tuesday. B.C. government photo Listen to article Canada’s National Observer: Four First Nations are hailing a landmark agreement with a logging company that will increase their role in...
October 23, 2023
Nova Scotia Housing Plan Released
NationTalk: The Province continues to take bold and collaborative action to create more housing, faster, for Nova Scotians. Today, October 23, the government released its five-year housing plan – Our Homes, Action for Housing. It represents a projected $1-billion investment and highlights targets to create the conditions for more than 40,000 new housing units from...
October 20, 2023
Senate Gives First Nations Gaming Bill a Second Reading
NationTalk: CasinoReports – This week, Senator Scott Tannas’ Bill S-268 has progressed for a second reading in the Senate. If passed, the legislation would grant First Nations the opportunity to license, conduct, and manage gambling operations on reserves. The legislation was initially tabled in June 2023, and Mr. Tannas who has never sponsored a bill...
October 19, 2023
Federal Court affirms validity of recognition of Listuguj Mi’gmaq First Nation’s rights and Indigenous laws regarding its fisheries in agreement with Canada
Organizations representing non-Indigenous commercial fishers had sought to have recognition declared illegal and invalid NationTalk: LISTUGUJ, QC — The Federal Court of Canada has upheld the recognition of the Listuguj Mi’gmaq First Nations’s rights and Indigenous laws regarding its fisheries provided for in a groundbreaking agreement with Canada. The decision, made public on October 12,...
October 19, 2023
Additional New Treaty Boundary Highway Signs Unveiled
NationTalk: Today, the Government of Saskatchewan and the Office of the Treaty Commissioner unveiled a series of new highway signs to be placed in the Estevan, Moosomin, Lanigan and La Ronge areas to highlight more Treaty boundaries across the province – and will be seen by thousands of motorists daily. “I appreciate the ongoing collaboration...
October 19, 2023
New Government of Canada Legislation Tabled to Protect Canada’s Natural Wonders
NationTalk: Parks Canada – Legislation will finalize the establishment of Akami-Uapishkᵁ-KakKasuak-Mealy Mountains National Park Reserve and Tallurutiup Imanga National Marine Conservation Area, and formally update the boundaries of seven national parks and one national park reserve Canada’s national parks are the crown jewels in a country blessed with breathtaking natural landscapes. But this network of...
October 18, 2023
Consultations continue as 2 First Nations work toward road to Ring of Fire in northern Ontario
Series of open houses planned for next few weeks across the region CBC Indigenous: A project that would create a direct route between the provincial highway network and the lucrative Ring of Fire mineral deposit in northern Ontario is making headway. Led by Marten Falls First Nation and Webequie First Nation, the Northern Road Link project would...
October 18, 2023
Statement from Ontario Regional Chief Glen Hare and The Honourable Greg Rickford, Minister of Indigenous Affairs Ontario
by ahnationtalk on October 18, 2023 NationTalk: Toronto, ON — Ontario Regional Chief Glen Hare and The Honourable Greg Rickford, Minister of Indigenous Affairs Ontario released the following statement: “On October 16, 2023, the First Nations Leadership Council and five Ontario Ministers had a productive Leadership Advocacy Strategy Meeting. This quarterly forum provides Chiefs of Ontario with an...
October 18, 2023
Annual Report highlights innovations advancing reconciliation and treaty negotiations
NationTalk: VANCOUVER, BC and Xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish) and səl̓ilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) territories – Today, the BC Treaty Commission released its 2023 Annual Report focusing on negotiation updates, policy innovations and an informative feature on the Tsawwassen First Nation. In the past year, negotiation momentum and dedicated efforts have resulted in significant progress including, s.87 tax-exemption...
October 18, 2023
Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew and New Government Sworn In
NationTalk: New Cabinet Commits to Building a Shared Future for All Manitobans TREATY 1 AND DAKOTA TERRITORY, HOMELAND OF THE RED RIVER MÉTIS, WINNIPEG—In a colourful and tradition-filled ceremony honouring the seven Indigenous nations in Manitoba, Premier Wab Kinew was sworn in today as premier of Manitoba, alongside the 14 other members of his cabinet....
October 16, 2023
‘We have a vision to protect our lands that is more sacred to us’: Finance agreement signals future conservation boom in N.W.T.
A gathering to celebrate the signing of the framework agreement for the Northwest Territories Project Finance for Permanence. Photo credit: Jamie Stevenson Canada’s National Observer: The stage has been set for a conservation boom in the Northwest Territories with a signed framework agreement between the territorial and Indigenous governments and private philanthropies. The agreement provides...
October 13, 2023
Major Milestone Reached in Indigenous-Led Initiative to Sustain Lands and Support Community Economic Development Across the NWT
NationTalk: Yellowknife: In a collaboration unprecedented in scale and breadth, representatives from Indigenous Governments, the Government of Canada, the Government of the Northwest Territories, and private philanthropies announced a visionary framework agreement today. The agreement outlines the terms and expected outcomes of a major new initiative that will fund the protection of lands, support thriving...
October 12, 2023
Building affordable homes in Yellowknife
NationTalk: Right now, Canadians – from young families, to seniors, to newcomers – are finding it challenging to find a place to call home at a price they can afford, particularly in the North. By rapidly building more affordable homes, we can help drive down the cost of housing for people living in Northern and...
October 11, 2023
Confederacy of Mainland Mi’kmaq and Government of Canada sign historic Framework Agreement, a milestone in delivering housing and infrastructure services in Mi’kmaw communities
NationTalk: Indigenous Services Canada — Millbrook First Nation, the ancestral and unceded territory of the Mi’kmaq People, Nova Scotia — Indigenous Services Canada (ISC) and The Confederacy of Mainland Mi’kmaq (CMM)The Government of Canada recognizes Indigenous Peoples’ inherent right to self-determination and supports the right of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis to independently deliver services...
October 6, 2023
Haeckle Hill is the North’s first entirely Indigenous-owned clean energy project
The Haeckle Hill Wind Energy farm will generate enough clean energy to power 650 homes per year. APTN News: The Kwanlin Dün First Nation in Whitehorse will soon be offsetting Yukon’s carbon emissions thanks to a new green energy project. The Haeckle Hill Wind Energy farm is a four-megawatt wind turbine project located just northwest of Whitehorse. The turbines...
October 5, 2023
What Wab Kinew’s victory in Manitoba means for the rest of Canada: ‘One party united the vote and the other party divided’
The tasks facing Manitoba’s next premier will test a politician who ran a campaign deliberately targeting all voters as he navigates fraught and looming issues in his province. Toronto Star: Manitoba NDP leader Wab Kinew delivers his victory speech and wishes his mother, Kathi Avery Kinew, a happy birthday, after winning the Manitoba Provincial election...
October 4, 2023
Feds announce $740K to further study Winnipeg-area landfill search
Crown-Indigenous Relations feels the search ‘would be complex yet feasible and could be done while ensuring the health and safety of those involved.’ Winnipeg police believe two First Nations women are buried in the Prairie Green landfill located north of the city. Photo: Jesse Andrushko/APTN. APTN News: The federal government announced Wednesday it is providing...
October 3, 2023
Solid NDP win cements Kinew as 1st First Nations premier in Manitoba history
New Democrats emerge with enough seats to form majority government CBC News: The NDP sailed to victory Tuesday night with a solid win that cements leader Wab Kinew as Manitoba’s first First Nations premier and also nets the party enough seats to form a majority government. “This is a great victory for all of us...
October 3, 2023
B.C. court rejects challenge to huge Squamish Nation housing project in Vancouver
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau takes part in a groundbreaking ceremony with Squamish Nation councillors Wilson Williams, back centre, and Khelsilem, right, at the First Nation’s Senakw housing development site, in Vancouver, in September 2022. Photo: Darryl Dyck/APTN. APTN News: The Canadian Press – A massive Vancouver housing development spearheaded by the Squamish Nation has cleared a legal...
September 30, 2023
Indigenizing Our Cities
Truth and reconciliation requires Indigenous knowledge shaping how urban settings should look, feel and remind. The Tyee: For our third National Day of Truth and Reconciliation, I am struck by how much change has occurred for Indigenous Peoples in Vancouver and B.C. I work primarily in the field of urbanism — advocating for Indigenous knowledge...
September 30, 2023
New trust lets Vancouver Island residents donate percentage of property value to First Nations projects
Donations will go directly to participating First Nations and their projects CBC Indigenous: It’s a small percentage with significant meaning for Chief Abraham Pelkey of the Tsawout First Nation. Pelkey leads one of 10 nations on Vancouver Island who are starting to receive money from the South Island Reciprocity Trust, to which residents in the Capital Regional District can...
September 29, 2023
Ottawa to table Indigenous clean water bill this fall
Minister calls upcoming law ‘closest to co-development that we’ve come’ Toronto Star: Indigenous Services Minister Patty Hajdu says she hopes to table a piece of legislation this fall she says is the closest the federal government has come to codeveloping law with First Nations. “It’s really, to me, very important that it reflects the input...
September 29, 2023
Control of First Nations Guardians program handed to non-governmental Indigenous leadership
Shaunna Morgan Siegers, interim executive director of the First Nations National Guardians Network. Photo by Matteo Cimellaro / Canada’s National Observer Listen to article Canada’s National Observer – On the eve of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, Ottawa announced a $12.8-million expansion to the Indigenous Guardians program, which funds moccasins on the ground to support Indigenous-led...
September 29, 2023
The governments of Canada and Québec provide over $14 million in financial assistance for the construction of a shelter for homeless Indigenous people
NationTalk: MONTRÉAL – The governments of Canada and Québec will provide financial assistance for the purchase and conversion of two buildings by Projets Autochtones du Québec (PAQ) to establish PAQ2, a low barrier shelter in Montréal. The MP for LaSalle–Émard–Verdun, the Honourable David Lametti, the Minister Responsible for Relations with the First Nations and the...
September 28, 2023
International Recognition for the Protection of the Magpie River
NationTalk: EKUANITSHIT, QC, HAVRE-SAINT-PIERRE, QC and MONTREAL, Sept. 28, 2023 – The Muteshekau-shipu Alliance is pleased to announce that the Magpie River has been registered as an Indigenous and Community Conserved Area (ICCA), an internationally recognized status for the conservation of Indigenous territory. It is the first territory in Canada to achieve ICCA status, the result of an initiative announced...
September 24, 2023
A First Nations premier will signify ‘progress’
Kinew set for historic achievement if NDP wins Oct. 3 election Toronto Star: A First Nations premier would head a province for the first time in Canadian history if the New Democrats win the Oct. 3 Manitoba election, and the significance is not lost on party leader Wab Kinew. “My dad was not allowed to...
September 22, 2023
New housing for Blackfoot families
NationTalk: Alberta’s government is proud to celebrate the completion of new affordable housing in Lethbridge in partnership with the Blackfoot Family Lodge Society. To give women and their children a fresh start and safe place to live, the Blackfoot Family Lodge Society’s Soaring Hearts project will provide 14 units for Blackfoot women and their children...
September 22, 2023
Canada and Metlakatla First Nation Reach $150 Million Specific Claims Settlement Over Land Surrendered in 1906
Nationtalk: CFNR News: Canada will pay the Metlakatla First Nation $150 million after breaching its fiduciary obligations relating to land surrendered over a century ago. In 1906, the Nation surrendered portions of Kaien Island, Digby Island, and the Tsimpsean Peninsula to Ottawa. But, the Nation later discovered that Canada had breached their obligations by failing...
September 18, 2023
A fire that’s been burning for 173 years
Spiritual practices observed in Robinson treaties case courtroom are a modern continuity of an ancient tradition A sacred fire (or Shkodeh, as it is known in Anishinaabemowin) has burned every day the Robinson treaties trial has been in session. This landmark case was first heard in 2017. Submitted by Alex Bisson CBC Indigenous: A sacred fire...
September 14, 2023
B.C. strengthens food supply for people in rural communities
NationTalk: VICTORIA – A new fund will help improve the availability and affordability of food in B.C.’s remote, rural and Indigenous communities by strengthening the food supply chain and streamlining logistics, storage and transportation options. “British Columbians rely on strong, local food systems and it is imperative that we look at ways to help strengthen our...
September 13, 2023
AMC and Elections Manitoba Introduce Groundbreaking Declaration of First Nation Guarantor for Proof of Identity Voters Form
NationTalk: Treaty One Territory, Manitoba – The Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs (AMC) proudly announces its collaboration with Elections Manitoba to champion the democratic spirit and encourage full participation in the 43rd Manitoba General Election set for October 3, 2023. To address the hurdles confronting certain First Nation voters who lack the required identification, the AMC...
September 13, 2023
Government of Canada honours Indigenous soldiers in the Netherlands
NationTalk: Veterans Affairs Canada – The full story of Canada’s long military history includes many contributions from First Nations, Inuit and Métis people. They sacrificed so much to safeguard our peace and freedom—we owe it to them to ensure they get the recognition they deserve. Earlier this year, a group of Canadian, Indigenous and Dutch...
September 11, 2023
City apologizes to former B.C. councillor for the systemic racism that led to her resignation
Hlox-Majagalee (Jessica McCallum-Miller) resigned from Terrace city council in 2021 CBC News A small city in B.C.’s northwest has apologized for the effects of systemic racism on former city councillor Hlox-Majagalee, whose English name is Jessica McCallum-Miller. She resigned from her position on Terrace city council in 2021, saying that racism and sexism were negatively affecting her ability...
September 10, 2023
Federal government apologizes to Williams Lake First Nation for illegal settlement of its lands
First Nation had received $135M settlement in 2022, after legal fight over illegal occupation of village site CBC News: The federal government issued an official apology to the Williams Lake First Nation, located in central B.C., a year after a $135-million settlement was reached over illegal settlement of its village lands. Crown-Indigenous Relations Minister Gary Anandasangaree...
September 7, 2023
Government Provides Funding for Emergency Shelter in North Battleford
NationTalk: Saskatchewan Housing Corporation (SHC) is providing $219,000 to the Battlefords Agency Tribal Chiefs (BATC) for the purchase of the Miwasin Kikinaw 40-space emergency shelter in North Battleford. “The province is pleased to provide funding to Battlefords Agency Tribal Chiefs for the purchase of its emergency shelter that will continue to provide support for individuals...
September 6, 2023
Deb Haaland, first Indigenous member of U.S. cabinet, meets counterparts in Ottawa
Haaland on Jan. 20 at the Capitol building in Washington ahead of Joe Biden’s inauguration. Photo: Twitter APTN News: The Canadian Press – The first-ever Indigenous member of the U.S. cabinet is in Canada to talk about how best to help First Nations, Inuit and Métis Inuit communities across the continent. Interior Secretary Deb Haaland, a...
September 5, 2023
Robinson Huron Waawiidamaagewin gathering full of teachings, activities
Robinson Huron Treaty Chiefs gathered in Sudbury, Ont., with federal and provincial governments on June 17. – Photo by Marci Becking NationTalk: AnishinabekNews.ca:G ARDEN RIVER — A Treaty Renewal Ceremony is being held on Sept. 9 at the GFL Memorial Gardens in Sault Ste. Marie as part of the Robinson Huron Treaty 1850 Gathering. Held...
September 1, 2023
Creating more shelter space in Edmonton
Alberta’s government is accepting applications from operators able to offer additional shelter spaces. NationTalk: As the winter season approaches, the government is taking action to increase shelter spaces. Service providers and homeless-serving agencies interested in opening and operating up to 200 additional 24-7 emergency shelter spaces outside of Edmonton’s downtown core can submit applications now....
August 30, 2023
New forest management strategy aims to restore balanced outcomes for the environment, society and economy
NationTalk: FREDERICTON (GNB) – The provincial government released a new forestry management strategy today that aims to restore balance and fulfill a commitment to achieve mutually beneficial outcomes for the environment, society and the economy through a focus on conservation, sustainable forest management principles, and economic development. “Today, New Brunswick is in the unique position...
August 29, 2023
Polar Knowledge Canada provides $1.7 million toward Yukon Climate Change Impacts and Adaptation Strategies
Cambridge Bay, Nunavut NationTalk: Polar Knowledge Canada, Cambridge Bay, Nunavut – As this year’s wildfire season has shown us, Northern and Indigenous communities are already feeling the devastating effects of climate change, and it’s crucial that they have the tools they need to lead on adapting to the changing environment. Today, Polar Knowledge Canada (POLAR)...
August 26, 2023
Federal government settles hundreds of millions worth of claims with Sask. First Nations
$150-million settlement with Muskowekwan Saulteaux Nation 1 of several announced this month First Nations across Saskatchewan are settling claims against the federal government for hundreds of millions of dollars. The settlements, known as “specific claims,” are designed to correct historic injustices. The largest single claim was announced earlier this week. Muskowpetung Saulteaux Nation will receive the...
August 25, 2023
Housing First complex under construction in Watson Lake
NationTalk: The Government of Yukon, with the support of Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation, is pleased to announce that construction of a 10-unit Housing First Complex in Watson Lake is now underway. The complex was designed with input from the Liard First Nation Chief and Council, the Town of Watson Lake Mayor and Council, and...
August 23, 2023
City collaboratively launches its first Indigenous Health Strategy
NationTalk: HAMILTON, ON – Last week, City Council approved its first Indigenous Health Strategy, which aims to improve the health and well-being of Indigenous individuals in Hamilton and reduce health disparities. Recognizing the historical and ongoing impact of colonialism on Indigenous health, Hamilton Public Health Services (HPHS) has engaged in a comprehensive and collaborative process...
August 23, 2023
Recognizing Treaty 6: Minister Wilson
NationTalk: Minister of Indigenous Relations Rick Wilson issued the following statement to commemorate the signing of Treaty 6: “Today marks 147 years since the signing of Treaty 6 in Fort Carlton, Sask. Almost one year later, on Aug. 21, 1877, First Nations chiefs gathered at a site in amiskwaciwâskahikan, what is now commonly known as...
August 21, 2023
New evacuee accommodation provides safety net for Tŝilhqot’in and other First Nations
NationTalk: The Tŝilhqot’in Nation has opened a group lodging centre to protect its community members, as well as Indigenous Peoples across the province, in the event of an evacuation due to wildfires. The Tŝilhqot’in Nation has worked collaboratively with the Ministry of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness (EMCR) on the temporary group lodging accommodation centre,...
August 17, 2023
Hillsborough Park project agreement signed with PEI First Nations
NationTalk: The Government of Prince Edward Island has signed a historic agreement with the Chiefs of Abegweit First Nation and Lennox Island First Nation for a housing project in Hillsborough Park, Charlottetown. The agreement will provide land and opportunities to address the housing needs of First Nations urban community members and access to economic development....
August 17, 2023
Ontario Launches New Program to Protect Caribou
Program to fund habitat protection and research projects supporting caribou conservation Environment, Conservation and Parks Table of Contents NationTalk: TORONTO — The Ontario government is investing up to $20 million in a new Caribou Conservation Stewardship Program to support projects that maintain and recover caribou populations in the province. The funding will be available to...
August 17, 2023
New conservation funding helps Labrador Inuit ‘keep their bond with the land’
A humpback whale tail and iceberg in Labrador. Image via Wikimedia Commons/Natalie Lucier (CC BY 2.0) Listen to article NationTalk: Inuit-led conservation received a boost on Wednesday, with the federal government announcing about $3 million in funding for programs in Nunatsiavut, an area along the coast of Labrador with an Inuit regional government, part of which...
August 15, 2023
Rural Manitoba councillor apologizes for racist comments
The comments, shared widely on social media, were condemned by Springfield Mayor Patrick Therrien and others. Andy Kulscynski is in the back row on the far right in this undated council photo. Photo: RM of Springfield APTN News: A politician from a bedroom community outside Winnipeg has apologized for racist comments recorded at a recent...
August 10, 2023
Treaty Land Entitlement Transfer of Mineral Rights for Cowessess First Nation
NationTalk: Under the Cowessess Treaty Land Entitlement (TLE) Settlement Agreement, nearly 322 hectares (approximately 795 acres) of Crown mineral rights will be transferred to Cowessess First Nation upon the surface attaining reserve status. This is part of the province’s continued commitment to the TLE settlement agreements. “Treaty land entitlement agreements are vital to fulfilling federal and...
August 3, 2023
Québec Grants over $10 Million to Support First Nations and Inuit Climate Leadership
NationTalk: QUÉBEC – The Government of Québec supports the leadership of the First Nations and Inuit in the climate transition. The Minister of the Environment, the Fight against Climate Change, Wildlife and Parks and Minister Responsible for the Laurentides Region, Benoit Charette, today announced a total of $10 million in financial assistance to the First...
July 31, 2023
Mandate letter directs more cross-ministry collaboration for Indigenous Relations minister
Indigenous Relations Minister Rick Wilson Windspeaker.com: Indigenous Relations Minister Rick Wilson will be getting help from a newly appointed parliamentary secretary to meet the tasks on his agenda, including climate and health items, as outlined in his most recent mandate letter from Alberta Premier Danielle Smith. “That’s going to help me out a lot to...
July 27, 2023
Co-management builds resilience in the Great Bear Rainforest
NationTalk: VICTORIA – New measures to sustain the Great Bear Rainforest as one of the world’s most treasured and diverse coastal temperate forest ecosystems have been introduced. Coastal First Nations, the Nanwakolas Council and the Ministry of Forests, have worked in partnership to identify new steps to be taken as part of strengthening implementation of...
July 27, 2023
Sixty-eight organizations receive grants to help shape anti-racism legislation
NationTalk: VICTORIA – Racialized people can now share their perspectives in culturally safe spaces as 68 organizations across B.C. receive more than $300,000 to engage community members on the development of new anti-racism legislation. “Too many people in B.C. experience systemic racism every day,” said Mable Elmore, Parliamentary Secretary for Anti-Racism Initiatives. “Part of how we...
July 26, 2023
Cabinet Shuffle: Crucial Issues for First Nations to Continue with New Ministers
NationTalk: WENDAKE, QC, July 26, 2023 – In response to the federal cabinet shuffle, the Assembly of First Nations Quebec-Labrador (AFNQL) would like to remind Justin Trudeau’s government of the importance of continuing to advance certain crucial files, such as First Nations police services, housing and infrastructure as well as the implementation of the First...
July 26, 2023
Statement on the release of the Senate Committee report on the Federal Framework for Suicide Prevention
NationTalk: The Senate Standing Committee on Social Affairs, Science and Technology released a report on June 8, 2023, of recommendations regarding the Federal Framework for Suicide Prevention and its evaluation, entitled Doing What Works. Read the Senate report The Senate report calls on the Government of Canada to update the Framework and prioritize, among other...
July 25, 2023
New Indigenous women’s housing program works to fill ‘gigantic need’ in Edmonton
Affordable rent and long list of services aim to prevent homelessness A new housing initiative in Edmonton is working to address homelessness among Indigenous women even as the need for housing threatens to overwhelm service providers. Iskwewak Iskotew Nihkotawan (Women’s Fire Lodge) will house 20 Indigenous women at risk of homelessness for stays up to 18...
July 21, 2023
Manitoba Government Commits Additional $1.5 Million for Safe Drinking Water in Northern Affairs Communities
NationTalk: The Manitoba government continues to take concrete action to improve the safety of drinking water in Northern Affairs communities, Indigenous Reconciliation and Northern Relations Minister Eileen Clarke announced today. “Access to safe drinking water is a fundamental human right and a prerequisite for good personal and public health,” said Clarke. “Remote northern communities face...
July 20, 2023
Province launches Indigenous climate-resilience capacity-building pilot program
NationTalk: VICTORIA – The Province is helping First Nations communities strengthen their resilience to the adverse effects of climate change through the launch of an Indigenous climate-resilience capacity-building pilot program. The Province’s BC Climate Preparedness and Adaptation Strategy has provided $2 million to fund a one-year pilot program that will be delivered by two First...
July 20, 2023
TABLE: Long-Term Drinking Water Advisories
Date of Advisory Current # of Long-Term DWA Communities still impacted # of Long-Term DWA Lifted % completed Jan. 19, 2024 28 26 144 84% Dec. 20, 2023 29 27 143 83% Aug. 21, 2023 28 26 142 84% July 20, 2023 29 27 142 84% June 19, 2023 28 26 142 84% May 4,...
July 18, 2023
Government of Canada provides more than $2.4M to establish Innu Guardian Programs at Saguenay-St. Lawrence Marine Park and Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve
New programs will ensure stewardship of lands, waters, and ice based on Indigenous values and cultures NationTalk: Parks Canada – The Government of Canada is committed to a process of reconciliation and renewed relationships with Indigenous peoples based on recognition, respect, co-operation, and partnership. The recognition of the important role Indigenous peoples play in the...
July 17, 2023
Work to replace Indian Act is ongoing, feds say
Process being done in consultation with Indigenous people By Richard Hutton Niagara This Week – Welland NationTalk: Niagarathisweek.com: Calls for the Indian Act to be repealed and replaced are not new, but the big issue is how to go about it, a spokesperson for Indigenous Services Canada says. “There is no clear consensus on a way forward...
July 12, 2023
Delegation from the Michi Saagiig Nishnaabeg Nation meets with His Majesty King Charles III First meeting between this Indigenous Nation and the Sovereign since 1860
NationTalk: HOLYROODHOUSE PALACE – The first delegation in over 160 years from the Michi Saagiig Nishnaabeg Nation (Mississauga Nation) had a meeting with His Majesty King Charles III during a Garden Party held at Holyroodhouse Place in Edinburgh, Scotland. At the King’s direction, the delegation was the first to be presented to His Majesty during...
July 12, 2023
Canada supports Indigenous wellness and culture feasibility studies in New Brunswick to advance self-determination and reconciliation
From: Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada NationTalk: Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada – Today, Chief George Ginnish from the Natoaganeg First Nation; Chief Ross Perley from Neqotkuk First Nation; and The Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Crown–Indigenous Relations, announced $150,000 in funding provided through the Cultural Spaces in Indigenous Communities Program. These funds will...
July 11, 2023
Premiers meeting in Winnipeg starts with discussion with Indigenous leaders
Heather Stefanson, Chair, Council of the Federation, and Premier of Manitoba talks with David Chartrand, Manitoba Metis Federation president, at the Canadian premiers and National Indigenous Organizations meeting in Winnipeg, Monday, July 10, 2023. THE CANADIAN PRESS/John Woods NationTalk: Canada’s premiers kicked off their annual three-day conference Monday by meeting with Indigenous leaders on issues...
July 10, 2023
Supportive Housing for Indigenous Women, Children in HRM
NationTalk: Two supportive housing options are now available for urban Indigenous women and children at risk of homelessness in Halifax Regional Municipality. The Department has provided the Mi’kmaw Native Friendship Centre more than $1 million in annual funding for Sage House, which has room for nine women, and a fourplex in Bedford. The centre will...
July 5, 2023
Manitoba Government Announces Action Plan to Protect Water Resources for Generations to Come
Clean, Protected Water Sources Vital to Economic Growth, Stronger Communities: Klein, Johnson NationTalk: The Manitoba government is releasing its initial water strategy action plan—a focused guide to specific actions to ensure sustainability of the province’s valuable water resources for current and future generations of Manitobans, Environment and Climate Minister Kevin Klein and Agriculture Minister Derek...
July 4, 2023
$50M Indigenous-led evacuation center to be opened next spring by Missanabie Cree Nation
APTN News: First Nations in northern Ontario will soon have a culturally responsive emergency center to wait out emergencies like wildfires or floods. “First Nation communities have been in crisis for the last 200 years, and it hasn’t really relented and as we see whether it’s precipitated by intergenerational trauma, the social impacts of it...
July 4, 2023
N.B. deal offers $22M for housing, roads projects in Neqotkuk First Nation
Agreement follows province’s controversial decision to scrap tax revenue-sharing agreements with communities CBC News: The New Brunswick government says it’s struck a “first of its kind” agreement to help fund housing and roads projects in Neqotkuk First Nation. According to a news release, the government will spend $22 million over five years to help build houses and...
July 3, 2023
Walpole Island closing in on $46M land claim settlement
Author of the article:Ellwood ShrevePublished Jul 03, 2023 • 2 minute readJoin the conversation NationTalk: Chatham Daily News – The end may be in sight to a Southwestern Ontario First Nation’s land claim against the federal government that dates back nearly 200 years. The Walpole Island First Nation, located along Lake St. Clair between Chatham-Kent and Sarnia,...
July 3, 2023
‘New landmark’ celebrated at dedication of Chief Tecumseh sculpture
The sculpture is on the beach at Lakewood Park North CBC News: Windsor and Essex County marked its deep Indigenous roots on Monday with a ceremony in the Town of Tecumseh to dedicate a new sculpture of the town’s namesake. Chief Tecumseh is memorialized in a new sculpture on the beach in Lakewood Park North. “This...
June 30, 2023
Nunavut one step closer to realizing land use plan
APTN News: A territory-wide land use plan for Nunavut, set to cover one-fifth of Canada’s land mass, is one step closer to becoming a reality. On June 20, the Nunavut Planning Commission, the organization responsible for the Nunavut Land Use Plan submitted its recommended plan to the federal and territorial governments, as well as Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated,...
June 29, 2023
Government of Canada Supports Clean, Renewable Energy With $50-Million Investment for Indigenous-Led Wind Power in Saskatchewan
NationTalk: Natural Resources Canada – Canada is advancing toward a prosperous low-carbon future, and Indigenous communities are at the forefront of seizing clean economic opportunities in every part of the country. The federal government is partnering with Indigenous communities, supporting self-determination and climate action to enable a clean, affordable and reliable grid. This will help...
June 28, 2023
Provincial Indigenous Women’s Reconciliation Council Hold First Meeting
by ahnationtalk on June 28, 2023 June 28, 2023 The inaugural meeting of the Provincial Indigenous Women’s Reconciliation Council was held on Wednesday, June 28 in St. John’s. The goal of the Reconciliation Council is to coordinate and lead meaningful action to address existing challenges and obstacles in the areas of culture, health and wellness, justice, and human...
June 28, 2023
What We Heard Report released for the Recommended Dawson Regional Land Use Plan
NationTalk: The Government of Yukon and the Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in Government released the What We Heard Report on the Recommended Plan for the Dawson Region. The development of a land use plan for the Dawson region is a significant priority for both the Government of Yukon and Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in. The consultation period ran for 90 days...
June 28, 2023
Parks Canada contributes more than $525,000 to advance the Indigenous-led Westcoast Stewardship Corridor with First Nations partners on Vancouver Island
Led by First Nations, the corridor aims to improve ecological and cultural connectivity along the west coast of Vancouver Island NationTalk: Parks Canada – Ecological corridors are key in curbing biodiversity loss and helping species adapt to climate change. By properly linking protected and conserved areas, natural processes can take place and species can move,...
June 28, 2023
Review Committee Established to Investigate Deaths in Custody
NationTalk: The Province has established a standing committee to investigate deaths of people in the custody of provincial correctional services. The Deaths-in-Custody Review Committee will examine the facts and circumstances leading up to a death and make recommendations to the Justice Minister to help prevent similar deaths in the future. It will examine two recent...
June 27, 2023
A significant milestone between Cree Nation Government and Fisheries and Oceans Canada – signing a conservation agreement for Lake Sturgeon populations in Eeyou Istchee, Northern Quebec
NationTalk: Fisheries and Oceans Canada – Québec, Quebec – The Cree Nation Government (CNG) and Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) are pleased to announce the signing of a Conservation Agreement pursuant to section 11 of the Species at Risk Act (SARA). After several months of close collaboration and constructive discussions, the parties have successfully negotiated...
June 27, 2023
Plan, prepare, act: Government of Canada launches first National Adaptation Strategy
NationTalk: Environment and Climate Change Canada – Climate change is affecting the safety, health, and quality of life of people across Canada. Every year, the country faces increasing record-breaking climate events, including wildfires, extreme heatwaves, and floods, on top of slow onset climate impacts, such as thawing permafrost and rising sea levels. Working together to...
June 27, 2023
Investments in New Mi’kmaw Native Friendship Centre
NationTalk: Wije’winen Centre, a new Mi’kmaw Native Friendship Centre in Halifax, is receiving more financial support with construction of the facility on the horizon. The Province is contributing $10 million toward the new building. This is in addition to about $1.7 million provided in 2022-23 for new programs and initiatives at the current centre. “The...
June 23, 2023
Ottawa, Yellowknives Dene sign procurement framework agreement for Giant Mine cleanup
Deal includes tougher penalties for companies that fail to meet Indigenous hiring commitments CBC News: The federal government and Yellowknives Dene First Nation have signed a procurement framework agreement for the cleanup of Giant Mine, one of Canada’s most contaminated sites. Ottawa says the agreement confirms its commitment to increase procurement opportunities for Indigenous people...
June 23, 2023
Manitoba Government, Seven First Nations Sign Historic Forestry Revenue Sharing Agreements
NationTalk: The Manitoba government and seven First Nations have signed agreements to share wealth generated by Manitoba’s forests and improve the economic and social well-being of Indigenous communities, Premier Heather Stefanson, Natural Resources and Northern Development Minister Greg Nesbitt and Indigenous Reconciliation and Northern Relations Minister Eileen Clarke announced today in partnership with leadership from...
June 23, 2023
Housing NWT establishes permanent Indigenous housing forum
On June 9, Housing NWT held the inaugural meeting of the NWT Housing Forum in Yellowknife. CabinRadio: The group is designed to be a vehicle for Indigenous governments to weigh in on Housing NWT policies and programs, advocate for changes and improvements, collaborate with each other, and share their own housing-related plans. It replaces the...
June 22, 2023
How First Nations Are Asserting Sovereignty Over Their Lands and Waters
Indigenous Marine Protected and Conserved Areas hold a key to food security and balancing ecological and economic priorities. Part one of two. Michelle Gamage YesterdayThe Tyee Michelle Gamage is The Tyee’s health reporter. Previously, she covered climate and environment for The Tyee as a freelance journalist. The Tyee: The spring herring spawn is unfolding in Kitasu...
June 22, 2023
Flying Dust First Nation to get land back from Canadian government after 91 years
85 hectares northeast of Meadow Lake expropriated in 1932 to make room for railway company CBC News: After more than 90 years, Flying Dust First Nation in northwestern Saskatchewan is getting some of its land back from the Canadian government. Meadow Lake RCMP hosted a ceremony Wednesday morning, on Indigenous Peoples Day, to commemorate the...
June 22, 2023
An important step in upholding the human rights of Indigenous peoples in Canada
NationTalk: Department of Justice Canada – June 21, 2023: The implementation of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (UN Declaration Act) will build a better, more equitable future for both Canada and Indigenous peoples. Together with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis, we are moving forward and honoring nation-to-nation, Inuit-Crown, and...
June 19, 2023
Robinson Huron citizens offered long-overdue payment
By Maurice Switzer NationTalk: Anishinabeknews.ca – ROBINSON HURON TERRITORY— How does one feel when someone pays a long overdue debt? Pleased? Relieved? Angry that it took so long? First Nations citizens of the 21 Robinson Huron Treaty communities are experiencing a range of emotions after the announcement that Canada and Ontario have agreed to pay...
June 19, 2023
Government of Canada and Assembly of First Nations chart a joint path for new and updated priorities on climate action
NationTalk: Supporting Indigenous climate leadership and co-developing solutions to address climate change in First Nations’ communities is central to advancing reconciliation and self-determination. Today, the Assembly of First Nations and the Government of Canada released the fifth Annual Report of the Joint Committee on Climate Action. The Joint Committee on Climate Action’s efforts are rooted...
June 19, 2023
Saskatchewan Participates in Federal-Provincial-Territorial Meeting on Human Rights
NationTalk: This week, Justice Minister and Attorney General Bronwyn Eyre is joining with the provincial and territorial ministers of Ontario, British Columbia, Nova Scotia, and the Yukon, and federal Minister of Families, Children and Social Development, Karina Gould, at the meeting of federal-provincial-territorial (FPT) Ministers Responsible for Human Rights in Halifax, Nova Scotia, co-hosted by...
June 17, 2023
‘Canada has a lot of unpaid bills’: $10B settlement reached in landmark First Nation treaty case
Community consultations, government approvals needed to finalize annuities deal CBC News: It took more than a decade of litigation, but 21 Anishinaabe communities along the north shore of Lake Huron in Ontario will finally access a fair share of the wealth generated on their lands over the past 173 years. The Robinson-Huron Treaty signed in...
June 13, 2023
National Indigenous History Month: Minister Wilson
NationTalk: Minister of Indigenous Relations Rick Wilson issued the following statement on National Indigenous History Month: “National Indigenous History Month is an important time of year to learn about the historic contributions and achievements of Indigenous Peoples in Alberta. The Alberta government continues to recognize their strength and resilience. “Indigenous Peoples in Alberta have historically...
June 12, 2023
Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada announces a judicial appointment in the province of Ontario
NationTalk: Department of Justice Canada – The Honourable David Lametti, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, today announced the following appointment under the judicial application process established in 2016. This process emphasizes transparency, merit, and the diversity of the Canadian population, and will continue to ensure the appointment of jurists who meet the...
June 9, 2023
New urban, rural and Northern Indigenous housing organization gets $287.1M for urgent projects
CEO says it’s an important step to bridging the funding gap for those living off-reserve CBC News: Those facing housing challenges — including homelessness — and those looking for ways to address housing challenges got a bit of a boost earlier this week. The federal government announced $287.1 million in funding on Thursday for the National Indigenous...
June 9, 2023
First Unitarian Ottawa and Partners Unveil Plans for ‘Odayanhaway’: A Little Village of Sustainable and Affordable Housing
NationTalk: Ontario Aboriginal Housing Services, OTTAWA – The First Unitarian Congregation of Ottawa (FirstU) and its partners Cahdco, Ontario Aboriginal Housing Services (OAHS), and Theia Partners are thrilled to announce their upcoming housing development project located on Cleary Avenue, unofficially titled “Odayanhaway”, a word in Ojibwe meaning “Little Village”. The master plan of the project...
June 8, 2023
Funding for urgent, unmet Indigenous housing projects in urban, rural and northern areas to be distributed through the National Indigenous Collaborative Housing Incorporated
NationTalk: Indigenous Services Canada – There is an urgent, unmet need for adequate and affordable housing for Indigenous People in urban, rural and northern areas and immediate action must be taken to address these housing gaps. This is why today, Jeff Loucks, Chief Executive Officer, as well as Gary Wilson, Vice Chair, and Robert Byers,...
June 2, 2023
Federal Investment to Support Clean Energy Planning with QUEST Canada, Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation and Frog Lake First Nation
NationTalk: Natural Resources Canada – The Government of Canada is committed to working in collaboration with Indigenous partners, the energy and electricity sectors, and renewable energy leaders across Canada to tackle climate change, accelerate the transition to clean energy and create impactful and local economic opportunities. Today, the Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, Canada’s Minister of Natural...
May 31, 2023
New framework agreement with feds a ‘game plan’ for Kitcisakik
The Anicinape community plans to relocate for access to running water, electricity. The Anicinape community of Kitcisakik in western Quebec and the federal government have signed a framework agreement to formalize their nation-to-nation relationship. “The framework agreement that we’re signing today is an important step for all the partners here to advance a word that often rolls easily off people’s lips called ‘reconciliation’....
May 31, 2023
Canada supports rapid housing projects in Saskatchewan
NationTalk: – Today, the Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of Housing and Diversity and Inclusion, announced a $12 million investment through the Rapid Housing Initiative (RHI) Project Stream that will fund 50 new homes for Indigenous people across southern Saskatchewan. The new homes are part of 3 separate projects across southern Saskatchewan, which includes the building of 40 new homes...
May 30, 2023
B.C.’s largest coastline cleanup gets major funding boost
NationTalk: PARKSVILLE – The Province is helping protect and restore B.C.’s marine environment with a further investment in the Clean Coast, Clean Waters Initiative Fund. Projects funded through this program have removed derelict vessels and cleaned up marine debris from more than 4,600 kilometres of shoreline, while creating more than 1,700 well-paying jobs. “I am honoured...
May 29, 2023
Canada Supports Rapid Housing Projects in Northern Manitoba
NationTalk:Today, the Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of Housing and Diversity and Inclusion, alongside Terry Duguid, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Member of Parliament for Winnipeg South announced an investment of $13.3 million through the Rapid Housing Initiative (RHI) Project Stream that will fund 78 new homes for Indigenous people across Manitoba....
May 26, 2023
Manitoba Government Announces New Civilian Director of Independent Investigation Unit of Manitoba
NationTalk: The Manitoba government is announcing the appointment of Roxanne Gagné to the role of civilian director of the Independent Investigation Unit (IIU) effective July 1, Justice Minister Kelvin Goertzen announced today. “A civilian-led investigation unit is a cornerstone of the Police Services Act and the IIU plays an important part in reinforcing the confidence...
May 24, 2023
New Awitgati Longhouse and Cultural Centre to provide programming and services to Indigenous community
From: Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency NationTalk: Fredericton, New Brunswick · Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) – Strong, vibrant cultural connections empower strong, vibrant communities. Investments in public spaces where people can gather, learn, share and celebrate their culture and knowledge are key to promote a more equitable, more inclusive Canada, and to build communities where everyone...
May 23, 2023
Ottawa pledges $12M to upgrade water services for Sioux Valley Dakota Nation
Minister Marc Miller and chief announce new waste water treatment plant for southwestern Manitoba First Nation CBC News: A southwestern Manitoba First Nation is using $12 million in federal funding to ensure on-reserve members have access to potable water for generations to come. Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations Marc Miller was in Sioux Valley Dakota Nation,...
May 23, 2023
Political party platforms show various degrees of commitment to Indigenous peoples in Alberta
WindSpeaker: The race to form Alberta’s next provincial government is contentious and neck-and-neck between the incumbent United Conservative Party (UCP) and the New Democratic Party (NDP). As the days to next Monday’s election count down, there is one thing the two party leaders agree on— the Alberta Indigenous Opportunities Corporation (AIOC). During the May 18...
May 17, 2023
Northern Development Ministers’ Forum Focuses on Economic Reconciliation through Action
NationTalk: CHURCHILL, MAN.—Ministers representing Canada’s northern jurisdictions gathered this week in Churchill, Man. for the 2023 Northern Development Ministers’ Forum (NDMF). Manitoba Natural Resources and Northern Development Minister Greg Nesbitt hosted this year’s forum, which focused on learning from successful examples of economic reconciliation through action across the country. “Manitoba was honoured to welcome our...
May 17, 2023
Vancouver permanently erects flags for Indigenous Host Nations in Stanley Park
The move is part of a 100-year vision for the park. NationTalk: For the first time ever, the local Host Nations’ flags will be permanently raised in Vancouver. City of Vancouver wants residential school memorial gone by May 28 ‘Tantamount to theft’: Early removal of memorial sparks further tension between City, Indigenous ‘vigil keepers’ As...
May 12, 2023
Support services strengthened in B.C.’s northern communities
NationTalk: DAWSON CREEK – People in northern communities experiencing rapid economic growth will benefit from strengthened supports that harness community and culture, improve health and safety and increase local service capacity. “Local governments, First Nations and non-profit organizations provide critical services that people rely on, and we need to ensure they have the capacity to...
May 11, 2023
Manitoba Government Invests $1.3 Million in Northern Healthy Foods Initiative
NationTalk: The Manitoba government is investing $1.3 million toward the Northern Healthy Foods Initiative to support northern food security projects that contribute to the development of culturally relevant, healthy food systems, Indigenous Reconciliation and Northern Relations Minister Eileen Clarke announced today. “The Northern Healthy Foods Initiative empowers communities to develop food security programs that address...
May 8, 2023
Suicide Prevention Plan Marks Three-Year Anniversary With Progress Update
NationTalk: The Government of Saskatchewan is providing an update on suicide prevention initiatives as part of the three-year anniversary of Pillars for Life: The Saskatchewan Suicide Prevention Plan. Released May 8, 2020, Pillars for Life serves as a guide to coordinate activities to promote life and reduce risk factors related to suicide. “The tragic loss...
May 7, 2023
Trudeau says Charles is ‘deeply aligned’ with Canadian priorities on environment, reconciliation
Canadian envoy in London says ‘serious discussion’ underway about potential royal visit CBC News: Prime Minister Justin Trudeau says he think Canada’s new head of state is aligned with the priorities of many Canadians on issues like the environment and reconciliation with Indigenous people. Trudeau and a group of other Canadians — including Gov. Gen. Mary...
May 5, 2023
Lac La Croix First Nation in northwestern Ontario reaches ‘transformational’ land claim settlement
$131.3M settlement aims to right wrongs from 1873 A settlement agreement was signed this week between Lac La Croix First Nation and the Ontario and federal governments, more than 20 years after the First Nation submitted its treaty land entitlement claim. The semi-remote First Nation is about 320 kilometres northwest of Thunder Bay along the Ontario-Minnesota...
May 4, 2023
National Indigenous leaders hope to renew relationship with Crown after meeting King Charles
Meeting was arranged by Canada’s first Indigenous governor general ahead of Charles III’s coronation CBC News: National Indigenous leaders say their historic meeting with King Charles on Thursday, two days before his coronation, marks the beginning of a new chapter in the relationship between the Crown and Indigenous Peoples. This was the first time a...
May 3, 2023
Whitecap Dakota First Nation signs historic treaty with Canada
Dakota members formally recognized as Indigenous peoples in Canada, will have self-governance CBC News: Whitecap Dakota First Nation finally has its own treaty with Canada after a decade of negotiations and centuries of being unrecognized as Indigenous people of this country. The First Nation in Saskatchewan says it’s the first Dakota nation to sign a...
April 27, 2023
What Are Comprehensive Claims?
Comprehensive claims are claims by Indigenous Peoples for their own land accepted for negotiation by the federal government. First People’s Law Report: Indigenous Rights in One MinuteThe federal government introduced its comprehensive land claims policy following the Supreme Court’s 1973 Calder decision. Up until then the federal government had denied the existence of Indigenous land rights. Canada’s land...
April 27, 2023
Canada supports rapid housing projects for First Nations in Northwest Alberta
NationTalk: Today, the Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of Housing and Diversity and Inclusion, alongside the Honourable Randy Boissonnault, Minister of Tourism and Associate Minister of Finance announced an investment of $25.3 million through the Rapid Housing Initiative (RHI) under the National Housing Strategy to support affordable homes in Northwest Alberta. These projects are providing safe and...
April 26, 2023
New agreements between First Nations and B.C. government a step toward fulfilling Canada’s treaty obligations
First Peoples Law Report: The Conversation – Treaty 8 First Nations and the government of British Columbia have recently concluded two historical agreements on Treaty Land Entitlement and land and resource management. These agreements are expected to better honour the provincial government’s treaty obligations, significantly change how land is managed and how natural resources are developed in the First...
April 25, 2023
Local First Nations’ loss of Montney Reserve ignites 20-year legal battle for justice
The Montney Reserve, famous for oil and gas, represents a conflict that resulted in a lengthy legal battle for land and Treaty rights following a complicated history between Canada and Indigenous people. First Peoples Law Report: Energetic City – FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — The Montney Reserve, famous for oil and gas, represents a conflict...
April 21, 2023
Canada supports rapid housing projects for First Nations in southeastern Alberta
NationTalk: Today, the Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of Housing and Diversity and Inclusion, alongside George Chahal, Member of Parliament for Calgary Skyview announced funding of $58.5 million through the Rapid Housing Initiative (RHI) Project Stream to support projects on four First Nations that will create 239 homes and eight beds for vulnerable individuals including families, youth aging...
April 20, 2023
Funding helps 60 organizations build anti-racist communities
NationTalk: VICTORIA – More people will have better access to the tools and resources needed to address racism and build more inclusive communities, as 60 organizations receive support through the B.C. Multiculturalism and Anti-Racism Grants program. “Discrimination and racism are real, and too many people in this province continue to be victimized by hate,” said...
April 19, 2023
$92.4 Million for First Nation and Métis Communities through Gaming Payments
NationTalk: The 2023-24 provincial budget sees a continued investment in First Nation and Métis communities across Saskatchewan. This budget sets out targeted investments to support First Nation and Métis services and initiatives, including a record-setting $92.4 million in gaming payments, thanks to the estimated casino profits, as well as the estimated new online gaming profits,...
April 19, 2023
Canada’s delegation to UNPFII forging a new path forward on Indigenous climate leadership
Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada: Indigenous leaders from around the world came together today in New York City for the 22nd session of the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues (UNPFII). Leadership gathered as part of an ongoing international dialogue on Indigenous rights and Indigenous Peoples’ contributions addressing the most pressing and urgent...
April 18, 2023
For the first time, Indigenous-owned investment firm launches Pilot Project with CMHC to accelerate Indigenous housing
NationTalk: OTTAWA, ON, April 18, 2023 – Today, Indigenous-owned private credit fund, Keewaywin Capital Inc. (Keewaywin), announces its partnership with Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) in a first-of-its-kind collaboration called the Accelerated Construction Pilot Project, focused on building more homes, faster, for Indigenous communities. In the Pilot Project’s first year, Keewaywin anticipates it will fund the...
April 15, 2023
Treaty 8 First Nations in B.C. celebrate inking of treaty land entitlement claims with province, Ottawa
Federal government giving $800M, province 109,385 acres of land to first nations in northeastern B.C. CBC News: Five first nations in northeastern B.C., who signed a land treaty known as Treaty 8 in 1899, celebrated the culmination of decades of negotiations to have it honoured as it was agreed to more than 100 years ago....
April 14, 2023
P.E.I.-based Abegweit First Nation signs 5-year fisheries deal with Ottawa
First Nation also receiving DFO funding to restore habitat for Atlantic salmon and eel CBC News · Posted: Apr 14, 2023 10:19 AM EDT | Last Updated: 10 minutes ago CBC News: Federal Fisheries and Oceans Minister Joyce Murray was on Prince Edward Island Friday to sign a deal with Abegweit First Nation Chief Roddy Gould Jr., affirming...
April 11, 2023
Taking the lead on new nation-building projects
NationTalk: Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba have signed an agreement to collaborate on joint economic corridor projects to boost trade and economic growth. The signing of a memorandum of understanding between the governments of Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba will foster the development of new economic corridors across the three provinces. This groundbreaking partnership aims to bolster...
April 9, 2023
Budget 2023: Advancing Reconciliation
Budget 2023 commits $4,096M to Indigenous Nations as follows: Budget Item (Millions) 2022-23 2023-24 2024-25 2025-26 2027-28 2028-29 Total Self-Determination and prosperity for Indigenous People 0 111 22 21 10 10 $173 Investing in Indigenous Communities Indigenous Health Priorities $0 $534 $76 $76 $70 $70 $827M MMIWG National Action Plan $2 $21 $31 $28 $21...
April 5, 2023
Cowessess First Nation Receives Mineral Rights in Treaty Land Entitlement Transfer
NationTalk: Under the Cowessess Treaty Land Entitlement (TLE) Settlement Agreement, nearly 60 hectares (approximately 147 acres) of Crown mineral rights will be transferred to Cowessess First Nation upon the surface attaining reserve status. This is part of the province’s continued commitment to the TLE settlement agreements. “Reconciliation is demonstrated through TLE settlement agreements, which support...
April 4, 2023
Governor General wants leaders to meet King
Toronto Star: Gov. Gen. Mary Simon wants Indigenous leaders to meet with King Charles to reset their relationship with the Crown, the national chief of the Assembly of First Nations said Monday. Speaking to chiefs gathered in Ottawa, RoseAnne Archibald said she meets frequently with Simon, who is the first Indigenous person to hold the...
April 4, 2023
Mi’kmaq Forestry Initiative shapes future of Nova Scotia forestry sector
NationTalk: Mi’kma’ki – A first-of-its kind partnership is bringing traditional and ancestral Mi’kmaw knowledge to the Nova Scotian forestry sector and providing opportunities and prosperity to Mi’kmaw communities through forestry. The Mi’kmaq Forestry Initiative (MFI) serves Mi’kmaw communities, supporting the development of sustainable economic opportunities for the Mi’kmaq and promoting community prosperity through the lens...
March 31, 2023
‘It is so beautiful’: rare inland rainforest in B.C. declared Indigenous protected area
In a race to conserve the largest intact, unprotected watershed in southern B.C., the Simpcw First Nation unilaterally declared the creation of a new protected area under Indigenous law — a move that could put an end to logging plans The Narwhal: PUBLISHED BY Sarah Cox Sarah Cox is an award-winning journalist and author based in...
March 28, 2023
Nunavut flips stance on caribou protection again, now supports development ban on calving grounds
Position derived from community feedback at NPC hearings, premier says CBC News: The government of Nunavut has once again flipped its position on resource development on caribou calving grounds. In a submission to the Nunavut Planning Commission (NPC) on the 2021 draft Nunavut land use plan, the territorial government now supports a “prohibition of development within calving...
March 27, 2023
Ontario Regional Chief Glen Hare Responds to the Tabling of the 2023 Ontario Budget
NationTalk: (Toronto, Ontario ) – Ontario Regional Chief Glen Hare issued the following statement in response to the 2023 Ontario Budget: “On March 23, 2023, Ontario’s Minister of Finance, Peter Bethlenfalvy, tabled the 2023 provincial budget entitled 2023 Ontario Budget: Building a Strong Ontario,” said Ontario Regional Chief Glen Hare. “This budget provided an outline...
March 23, 2023
Feds kick in $43 million to supply clean drinking water for Oneida Nation of the Thames
Money will fund connection to Lake Huron water system for potable water, fire protection CBC News: Oneida Nation of the Thames, an Indigenous community near London, Ont., that has been on a boil water advisory since 2019, has secured $43 million in federal funding to connect to a municipal water supply. State of emergency declared amid...
March 6, 2023
Watershed strategy co-developed with First Nations, $100 million invested
NationTalk: VICTORIA – Government and the B.C.-First Nations Water Table announced an unprecedented $100-million investment in healthy watersheds and the launch of engagement on a new co-developed watershed security strategy intentions paper to help ensure safe, clean water is available to communities throughout B.C. for generations. This $100-million investment in the Watershed Security Fund builds on last...
March 2, 2023
Consultation draft shared: Next steps underway toward proposed new First Nations drinking water and wastewater legislation
Indigenous Services Canada – First Nations have long called for legislative reform on safe drinking water to meet their needs and reflect their voices. Since 2018, the Government of Canada has been engaging First Nations on legislative reforms to First Nations safe drinking water. The Government of Canada is committed to introducing new legislation following...
March 1, 2023
Crown-Indigenous Relations Minister Marc Miller announces policy to address issues in implementation of modern treaties
The Globe and Mail: Crown-Indigenous Relations Minister Marc Miller announced a new policy meant to address issues in the federal government’s implementation of the approximately two dozen treaties it has signed with Indigenous peoples since 1975, which are known as modern treaties. In remarks Tuesday at the Land Claims Agreement Coalition conference in Ottawa, Mr....
February 24, 2023
Kitikmeot tour a success for men’s suicide-prevention program
‘They were in full support of what we were doing,’ says organizer; Atii Angutiit has now gone to all regions of Nunavut NationTalk: Nunatsiaq News – In its tour through the Kitikmeot region, the men’s suicide prevention program called Atii Angutiit was so well received that communities are already asking for the group to come...
February 23, 2023
New homes for First Nations and Metis communities in Alberta
NationTalk: Edmonton, Alberta – Today, the Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of Housing and Diversity and Inclusion, the Honourable Randy Boissonnault, Minister of Tourism and Associate Minister of Finance and Member of Parliament for Edmonton Centre, Jeremy Nixon, Provincial Minister of Seniors, Community and Social Services, and Rick Wilson, Provincial Minister of Indigenous Relations announced a...
February 15, 2023
B.C. expands old-growth logging deferral to 2.1 million hectares, promises greater First Nations collaboration
New money coming for forest landscape planning and to help mills diversify CBC News: The British Columbia government announced new measures Wednesday it says will better protect old growth by working with First Nations while it ramps up investments to encourage innovation in an industry that has been plagued by job losses. The province says it’s expanding the...
February 12, 2023
The chiefs go to Ottawa: 50th anniversary of “Together Today for our Children Tomorrow”
Fifty years ago, a group of Indigenous leaders from the Yukon arrived in Ottawa to meet the prime minister and make a bold proposal. The meeting would effectively set the country on a new course, by opening the era of modern land claims. CBC News: To Chief Elijah Smith, it was the construction of a...
February 9, 2023
KKETS Welcome $4.5M in Nutrition North Canada Investments to Support expansion of Harvesters Support Program in Five remote First Nations in the Matawa Region
NationTalk: THUNDER BAY, ON: Kiikenomaga Kikenjigewen Employment & Training Services (KKETS) welcomed $4.5 million in Nutrition North Canada investments announced today on behalf of The Honourable Dan Vandal, Minister of Northern Affairs, PrairiesCan and CanNor. The investments will allow for the expansion of the KKETS Harvesters Support Program which is aimed at increasing community members’...
February 8, 2023
Governments of Newfoundland and Labrador and Nunavut Sign Memorandum of Understanding
NationTalk: Today, the Governments of Newfoundland and Labrador and Nunavut signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to strengthen areas of collaboration, partnership, and future development. The MOU was signed by the Honourable Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, the Honourable P.J. Akeeagok, Premier of Nunavut, the Honourable Lisa Dempster, Minister Responsible for Labrador Affairs...
February 6, 2023
Working Together to Prevent Suicide in Canada – the 2022 Federal Framework for Suicide Prevention Progress Report
Includes section on “Indigenous suicide prevention and life promotion” NationTalk: Public health Agency of Canada – Suicide is a serious public health issue that affects people of all ages and backgrounds. Every year, approximately 4,000 people die by suicide in Canada, with each loss leaving a profound impact on individuals, families and entire communities. As...
February 5, 2023
Marine Protected Area Network partners endorse plan to protect British Columbia’s North Coast
NationTalk: Fisheries and Oceans Canada: Vancouver, British Columbia – The blueprint for a vast network of marine protected areas (MPAs) across the northern third of Canada’s West Coast is being unveiled after more than a decade of work. Today, 15 First Nations, the Government of Canada, and the Government of British Columbia (B.C.) are jointly announcing...
February 3, 2023
Government of Canada advancing on goal of creating 10 new national marine conservation areas with new policy direction
NationTalk: Canada’s coastline is as long as six trips around the earth. Marine waters in Canada are vast, home to countless species and relied upon by thousands of coastal communities to work, live and play. With a target of protecting 30 percent of lands and waters by 2030, Canada must take bold action to ensure...
January 31, 2023
2 provincial parks in B.C. being considered as part of treaty settlement with First Nations
Discovery Island Marine Park and Sooke Mountain Park would remain open to the public, managed by First Nations CBC News: Two provincial parks in the southern Vancouver Island region may be returned to local First Nations as part of the modern treaty process. The Songhees and T’Sou-ke Nations are in the final negotiation stage of the B.C....
January 31, 2023
Ontario Announces New First Nations Partnership to Operate Mississagi Provincial Park
NationTalk: Innovative agreement will continue to support local economy and employment opportunities in Elliot Lake, and Mississauga and Serpent River First Nations Environment, Conservation and Parks Table of Contents Content Quick Facts Additional Resources Related Topics BLIND RIVER — The Ontario government has entered into an operating agreement with the newly formed Mississagi Park Foundation...
January 27, 2023
B.C. transfers land back to Lake Babine Nation, benefits the region
NationTalk: BURNS LAKE – The Province and Lake Babine Nation are taking the next step in the journey to recognize and implement the Nation’s rights and title through the signing of a new land transfer agreement. The agreement will enable Lake Babine Nation to take back control of 20,000 hectares of waterfront and prime forestry...
January 25, 2023
‘Rarest of the rare’: B.C’s newest conservancy protects globally imperilled rainforest
The move will permanently protect at-risk species and biodiversity — including rare lichens, grizzly bear and wolverine — in an area Premier David Eby describes as ‘one of B.C.’s greatest treasures’ The Narwhal: A globally endangered rainforest with cedar trees more than 1,000 years old will be permanently protected in a new conservancy in southeast...
January 24, 2023
First Nation declares protected area in northern B.C.’s Taku River watershed
Taku River Tlingit declare Indigenous Protected and Conserved Area, according to Tlingit law NationTalk: The Taku River Tlingit First Nation in Atlin, B.C., has declared a vast swath of its traditional territory in northern B.C. off-limits to mining and other extractive-resource development. The First Nation has named the 1.8-million hectare Taku River watershed an Indigenous Protected and Conserved Area...
January 23, 2023
British Columbia First Nations Strike Landmark Deals Governing Development on Their Ancestral Lands
NationTalk: YaleEnvironment360 Two First Nations in Canada have forged historic agreements governing industrial development on their ancestral lands. The Yaq̓it ʔa·knuqⱡi ‘it, also known as the Tobacco Plains Indian Band, have signed an agreement with NWP Coal Canada giving the First Nation veto power over a proposed mining project on their ancestral lands near Sparwood,...
January 20, 2023
B.C. announces cumulative impact agreements with Treaty 8 First Nations
LANDMARK DEAL WITH TREATY 8 NationTalk: Castanet – The B.C. government has reached four new agreements with Treaty 8 First Nations to address the cumulative impacts and future planning of industrial development in the northeast. The agreements provide hundreds of millions of dollars for land restoration and resource revenue sharing, and lays the groundwork to...
January 10, 2023
A Policy for the Stewardship of Yukon’s Wetlands released
NationTalk: Today, Minister Nils Clark and Minister John Streicker announced the release of A Policy for the Stewardship of Yukon’s Wetlands, the territory’s first ever wetlands policy. Wetlands are important to the territory’s ecosystem and contribute to the wellbeing of Yukoners in a variety of ways, from hosting rich biodiversity to their cultural significance for...
January 9, 2023
Remaining Long-Term Drinking Water Advisories
As of Jan. 5, 2022, 29 communities still have 33 Long-Term Drinking Water Advisories, as follows: https://www.sac-isc.gc.ca/eng/1506514143353/1533317130660 Remaining Long-Term Drinking Water Advisories Saskatchewan Little Pine Montreal Lake and Lac La Ronge Okanese Peepeekisis Cree Nation No.81 Star Blanket Cree Nation Manitoba Mathias Colomb Shamattawa First Nation Tataskweyak Cree Nation Ontario Anishnaabeg of Naongashiing Bearskin Lake Chippewas...
January 4, 2023
Increased funding for Human Rights Tribunal will make justice more accessible
NationTalk: VICTORIA – People bringing forward human rights claims will have better access to justice through increased funding for the BC Human Rights Tribunal and the Community Legal Assistance Society. “Nobody should be forced to live with intolerance and bigotry – that’s why our government has prioritized supporting people and communities in fighting racism and...
December 21, 2022
Manitoba Government Launches EngageMB Survey to Inform New Water Action Plan
NationTalk: Manitobans Invited To Help Shape Water Strategy Action Plan: Wharton The Manitoba government is announcing the launch of online public engagement to seek input for the first water strategy action plan under the new water management strategy, Environment, Climate and Parks Minister Jeff Wharton announced today. “We’re inviting all Manitobans to provide feedback and...
December 16, 2022
Canada continues to support Indigenous groups across the country to advance self-determination and rebuild their nations
Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada: As part of Canada’s work to renew relationships with Indigenous Peoples, the Government will support Indigenous groups working to rebuild their nations or Inuit communities—in a manner that responds to their unique needs and priorities. This was a key recommendation of the Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples and is...
December 15, 2022
Ontario Providing More Affordable Housing in Cambridge
Provincial investment will support Indigenous households Cambridge — The Ontario government is providing more than $1.8 million to help create 30 affordable housing units in Cambridge. Located at 27 Cambridge Street, the KW Urban Native Wigwam Project will have 23 one-bedroom and seven two-bedroom culturally appropriate affordable rental units with support services for vulnerable Indigenous...
December 15, 2022
Government of Yukon’s Office of the Auditor General’s Report Work Plan will enhance support for vulnerable Yukoners
NationTalk: The work plan to address the 2022 report by the Office of the Auditor General of Canada (OAG) on the state of housing for vulnerable Yukoners is now available to Yukoners. The report focused on emergency shelters, transitional housing, supportive housing and social housing available in the territory between April 1, 2015, and November...
December 13, 2022
Access to Information review’s final report including “What we Heard report on Indigenous Consultations
Treasury Board of Canada: Today, the Honourable Mona Fortier, President of the Treasury Board, tabled the Government’s report on the Access to Information Review in Parliament: “Access to information (ATI) is essential for our democracy and must reflect all citizen’s expectations for accessible, timely and trustworthy information. Given the importance of this review, the Government...
December 9, 2022
Ontario Investing in Affordable Housing in Thunder Bay
Funding will support vulnerable populations experiencing homelessness NationTalk: THUNDER BAY — The Ontario government is investing nearly $1.7 million in two projects to help create 16 housing units in the Thunder Bay area. The funding is being delivered through the Social Services Relief Fund (SSRF) and will provide affordable housing for those identifying as First...
December 9, 2022
Minister Wilkinson Releases Canada’s $3.8-billion Critical Minerals Strategy to Seize Generational Opportunity for Clean, Inclusive Growth
Natural Resources Canada: Critical minerals are not just the building blocks of clean technology like solar panels and electric vehicle batteries – they are a key ingredient for creating middle class jobs and growing a strong, globally competitive Canadian economy. The move toward a global net-zero economy is generating a significant increase in demand for...
December 8, 2022
BCAFN Welcomes BC Cabinet Restructuring and New Members
(Lheidli T’enneh Territory, Prince George, BC) — BC Assembly of First Nations (BCAFN) welcomes the new BC government cabinet members announced today by Premier David Eby. First Nations leaders have strongly emphasized the imperative for the government to partner with First Nations on several obligations and priorities and this cabinet is a positive step forward...
November 30, 2022
AMC, SCO, MKO and AFN Regional Office Respond to Meeting with Prime Minister Trudeau
NationTalk: Treaty One Territory, Manitoba – The Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs (AMC), the Southern Chiefs’ Organization (SCO), Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak (MKO) and the Assembly of First Nations Manitoba Regional Office issue this statement in response to the meeting held with Prime Minister Trudeau that was hosted on November 29, 2022, to discuss national and regional...
November 29, 2022
B.C. cabinet, First Nations’ leadership gather for important conversations
NationTalk: MUSQUEAM, SQUAMISH AND TSLEIL-WAUTUTH TERRITORY – The seventh B.C. Cabinet and First Nations Leaders’ Gathering began on Tuesday, Nov. 29, 2022, marking the first in-person gathering since the COVID-19 pandemic began in 2020 and the atmospheric river of 2021. Premier David Eby, together with Grand Chief Stewart Phillip, Cheryl Casimir, Regional Chief Terry Teegee,...
November 18, 2022
David Eby sworn in as premier at Musqueam Community Centre as a sign of reconciliation
VICTORIA – Today, David Eby was sworn in as B.C.’s 37th premier while surrounded by family, friends, colleagues and community members from throughout British Columbia. In a ceremony held in the Musqueam Community Centre, Eby made a commitment to tackle the challenges people are facing, while making meaningful improvements in the lives of British Columbians....
November 13, 2022
Working with Indigenous leaders to improve public safety
Reconciliation is a priority for Alberta’s government. The advisory committee was created after listening to and working with Indigenous Peoples in Alberta. As partners in reconciliation, Alberta’s government will continue having these conversations to find the best ways forward to a better future. The new committee will play a central role in providing advice and...
November 8, 2022
West Coast First Nations, feds reach tentative understanding on vast offshore region
Leadership mulls deal for proposed Marine Protected Area off Vancouver Island NationTalk: Tofino-Ucluelet Westerly News – Off the west coast of Vancouver Island is an area spanning 133, 019 square kilometres characterized by deep sea hydrothermal vents and seamounts surrounded by vibrant coastal ecosystems. Identified by authorities as the ‘Offshore Pacific Area of Interest’ and...
November 7, 2022
Update on AFN-Canada Specific Claims Co-Development Process
NationTalk: SUMMARY: Specific Claims Co-Development Process On November 3, 2022 Regional Chief Prosper and Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations Marc Miller attended a public ceremony to launch the co-development of an independent specific claims process. This ceremony marked the formal launch of the Specific Claims Implementation Working Group (SCIWG). The AFN and the Government of Canada...
November 5, 2022
Co-development of new independent centre for special claims to get underway
First Peoples Law Report: WindSpeaker – After decades of advocating for changes in the federal government’s specific claims process, First Nations came one step closer to that realization Nov. 3. Work will get underway with Crown-Indigenous Relations and First Nations organizations on the creation of an independent resolution centre for the handling of specific claims....
October 28, 2022
Infrastructure funding will advance self-determination for Yukon First Nations
Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada: The Government of Canada is working to reduce social and economic inequities between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities by making immediate and long-term investments to help close critical infrastructure gaps. Today, the Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations, announced an investment of $77 million over 4 years to support...
October 27, 2022
MPs back motion calling on government to recognize residential schools program as genocide
A motion from NDP MP Leah Gazan passed with unanimous consent CBC: Members of Parliament gave unanimous consent Thursday in favour of a motion calling on the federal government to recognize Canada’s residential schools as genocide. Leah Gazan, the NDP member of Parliament for Winnipeg Centre, introduced the motion following Question Period Thursday afternoon. Gazan brought forward a similar motion in...
October 25, 2022
New Brunswick Speech from the Throne Indigenous commitments
The Speech from the Throne has two specific Indigenous commitments: Work with Indigenous and other stakeholders to transition away from coal and explore whether New Brunswick’s natural gas supply could provide a clean and reliable alternative source of energy. Combat systemic racism, advance reconciliation and foster a more inclusive province. NationTalk: FREDERICTON (GNB) – Today’s...
October 25, 2022
Vancouver City Council Passes Historic UNDRIP Strategy
Today, October 25, 2022, Vancouver City Council passed the City of Vancouver’s United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) Strategy, as recommended by a Task Force led by the Musqueam Indian Band, Squamish Nation, and Tsleil-Waututh Nation. The adoption of the UNDRIP Strategy is historic, positioning Vancouver as a national and global...
October 21, 2022
3Nations, BC regional partnership renewed strengthened
NationTalk: VICTORIA – A historic partnership agreement between the Province and the 3Nations Society, consisting of the Tahltan, Kaska, and Taku River Tlingit, continues to strengthen their communities, cultures, environmental stewardship, and well-being of their people. This new agreement, signed on National Truth and Reconciliation Day, provides stable funding for ongoing, community-driven initiatives, and builds on...
October 18, 2022
Tahltan Central Government, B.C. take step forward to develop wildlife stewardship in Tahltan Territory
VICTORIA – The Tahltan Central Government and the Province of B.C. have agreed to work together toward the development and implementation of a world-class wildlife regime, led by Tahltan knowledge and expertise that will protect and preserve Tahltan wildlife, culture and way of being. The Tahltan Central Government – British Columbia Accord on Wildlife Management...
October 5, 2022
Government of Newfoundland and Labrador Speech from the Throne
Section on Reconciliation NationTalk: With the recent marking of the second annual Day for Truth and Reconciliation on September 30, it was a time for reflection on the province’s relationship and history with Indigenous people. My Government remains committed to consultations with Indigenous groups and weekly meetings with leaders that support open and frank discussions...
October 3, 2022
Home ownership key to Indigenous housing project
NationTalk: The governments of Alberta and Canada will help fund a new Indigenous affordable housing project that offers tenants the option of owning their homes. The Paul First Nation project involves the construction of 24 new affordable rental and rent-to-own units in Edmonton for Paul Band members. The Government of Alberta funding is provided through...
October 1, 2022
Canada and Anishinabek First Nations commemorate historic milestone on self-government agreement
NationTalk: October 1, 2022 —Nipissing First Nation, Robinson Huron Treaty Territory ON — Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada and Anishinabek Nation Today, the Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations, joined Anishinabek Nation Grand Council Chief Reg Niganobe, Chief Lloyd Myke of Magnetawan First Nation, Gimaa Kwe Rhonda Williams-Lovett of Moose Deer Point First...
October 1, 2022
Prince Edward Island celebrates Treaty Day
Today is the fourth year of recognizing October 1 as Treaty Day, an important step in the Province’s commitment to reconciliation with the PEI Mi’kmaq. Due to Hurricane Fiona and ongoing recovery efforts, public events for Treaty Day have been cancelled. This significant day celebrates the continuing friendship and shared history of Islanders and the...
September 29, 2022
The Government of Canada invests in partnership with Indigenous Peoples in the next phase of the Oceans Protection Plan
Transport Canada:Indigenous Peoples and coastal communities have had traditional and cultural ties with Canada’s oceans and waterways for generations. The next phase of Canada’s Oceans Protection Plan will continue to build on opportunities for Indigenous Peoples and coastal communities to collaboratively protect, preserve, and restore our oceans and waterways. Today, the Minister of Transport, the...
September 28, 2022
Ministers Honour Joyce Echaquan and Re-Affirm Commitment to Addressing Anti-Indigenous Racism in Canada’s Health Systems
Indigenous Services Canada: Ottawa, Ontario (September 28, 2022) – The Minister of Indigenous Services, Patty Hajdu, the Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations, Marc Miller, and the Minister of Health, Jean-Yves Duclos, issued the following statement today: “Health care is a human right, and should be free of racism and discrimination. But the systemic discrimination and racism...
September 28, 2022
Alberta provincial court releases Indigenous Justice Strategy
The Indigenous Justice Strategy aims to ensure Alberta judges and staff have a clear understanding of Indigenous history, heritage and laws, as well as establishing Indigenous cultural practices in court. But as Morgan Black explains, some critics say it’s a band-aid solution to a systemic issue. Global News (Canadian Press): Alberta’s provincial court has announced...
September 22, 2022
Up to $40 million in Indigenous-led area-based conservation funding now available
Environment and Climate Change Canada: Indigenous Peoples in Canada have long been environmental stewards on land, ice, and water and are the original leaders in sustainable development and natural resource management. That is why the Government of Canada is committed to working in partnership with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis to support Indigenous leadership in...
September 20, 2022
Indigenous conservation is key to protecting wilderness in Canada, report says
Globe and Mail: Indigenous-managed conservation areas are key to Canada’s pledge to designate nearly one third of its land and ocean waters for biodiversity protection by the end of this decade, according to a new report. The report from World Wildlife Fund (WWF) Canada stresses that protected areas should be “co-developed and implemented with Indigenous...
September 1, 2022
The Government of Saskatchewan is seeking feedback on the First Nation and Métis Consultation Policy Framework (CPF)
The CPF was released in 2010 and presents the Government of Saskatchewan’s policy on consultation with First Nation and Métis communities. It includes the roles and responsibilities of the Government of Saskatchewan, First Nation and Métis communities, proponents and other levels of government when there is a Duty to Consult. “The overarching goal of our...
August 30, 2022
S’ólh Téméxw Stewardship Alliance heritage sites receive new legal protections
NationTalk: CHILLIWACK – Sacred, spiritual and ceremonial heritage sites on Crown lands within Stó:lō Nation territory now have legal recognition and protection through a landmark pilot agreement. The agreement, which is the first of its kind in B.C., was collaboratively developed by the S’ólh Téméxw Stewardship Alliance (the STSA) and the provincial government under the...
August 26, 2022
Survivors’ Flag raising on Parliament Hill by residential school survivors, the National Centre of Truth and Reconciliation, and the Honourable Marc Miller
WINNIPEG — Residential school Survivors and the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation (NCTR) will be joined by the Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations for the raising of the Survivors’ Flag on Parliament Hill. Once raised, the flag will fly for two years. Survivors, the NCTR and Minister Miller will make themselves available...
August 24, 2022
Canada and Aotearoa-New Zealand sign Indigenous Collaboration Arrangement
Indigenous Services Canada: Wellington, New Zealand – Today, the Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Indigenous Services, issued the following statement on the Indigenous Collaboration Arrangement signed by Canada and Aotearoa-New Zealand: “Alongside an inspiring all-women Indigenous delegation, I am honoured to sign this Indigenous Collaboration Arrangement on behalf of the Government of Canada, which formalizes Canada...
August 23, 2022
Monument unveiled as commemoration of the past and hope for the future: Treaty 6
“I hope that this unveiling would be significant to the education for people from Alberta and Canada to talk about the treaties and how reconciliation can be done.” — Grand Chief George Arcand, Jr WindSpeaker: A monument unveiled at the Alberta legislature Sunday, Aug. 21, sits almost directly on the spot where the adhesion to...
August 4, 2022
Canada and the Muskeg Lake Cree Nation settle 1919 Soldier Settlement Board Surrender specific claim
Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada: Today, Chief Kelly Wolfe of Muskeg Lake Cree Nation; and the Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations, announced that Muskeg Lake Cree Nation and the Government of Canada have reached a settlement of the 1919 Soldier Settlement Board Surrender specific claim. This marks a significant step toward addressing...
July 21, 2022
Government of Canada supports housing strategy of Cree Nation Government in Eeyou Istchee
Crown–Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada: Today, the Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Crown–Indigenous Relations, joined Mandy Gull-Masty, Grand Chief of the Grand Council of the Crees (Eeyou Istchee) and Chairperson of the Cree Nation Government, to mark historic investments to support the Cree Nation Housing Strategy. Through the Indigenous Community Infrastructure Fund (ICIF), the...
July 18, 2022
Confederacy of Treaty Six First Nations signs relationship agreement with Alberta
NationTalk: Alberta’s government has signed an agreement with the Confederacy of Treaty Six First Nations to strengthen their relationship through partnership and a shared path forward. Premier Jason Kenney and Minister of Indigenous Relations Rick Wilson attended the Confederacy of Treaty Six First Nations Annual General Meeting on July 19 at the River Cree Resort...
July 12, 2022
Saskatchewan Provides Nearly $62 Million in Gaming Payments to Support Indigenous Initiatives
NationTalk: Gaming payments are back on track in this year’s budget with a $61.5 million investment to support Indigenous-led social and economic initiatives in Saskatchewan. Casino closures due to COVID-19 had previously impacted the payments and resulted in $80 million in emergency pandemic support over two years for First Nations and Métis organizations, in addition to...
July 8, 2022
British Columbia is investing $8.4 million to advance reconciliation in the community social services sector
“Non-profits promote connection and provide valuable community services across B.C., and they need to be available and accessible to all,” said Niki Sharma, Parliamentary Secretary for Community Development and Non-Profits. “Through this investment, we are increasing community social service providers’ capacity to offer culturally safe, inclusive, accessible social services to Indigenous people throughout British Columbia.”...
July 3, 2022
Premier Hosts Joint Meeting of Mi’kmaw Chiefs, Cabinet
NationTalk: Premier Tim Houston, cabinet ministers and Nova Scotia Mi’kmaw Chiefs held their first joint meeting today, June 30, discussing a wide range of issues and building relationships. “This is an excellent opportunity for the government to strengthen our relationship with the Mi’kmaq and work closely together on issues our communities are facing,” said Premier...
June 22, 2022
New Gitdisdzu Lugyeks (Kitasu Bay) Marine Protected Area
Kitasoo Xai’xais Territory, Klemtu, BC – Coastal First Nations are unified and resolved to move forward together to implement the Marine Protected Area (MPA) Network. In the spirit of collaboration we celebrate the announcement of the new Gitdisdzu Lugyeks (Kitasu Bay) Marine Protected Area. The Gitdisdzu Lugyeks (Kitasu Bay) MPA is a robust science-based management...
June 21, 2022
Government of NB launches new website tracking progress on TRC Calls to Action
A new website was launched today, on National Indigenous Peoples Day, to provide updates on the provincial government’s progress in implementing the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s calls to action. “One year ago, our government released a progress report outlining work already completed or underway on more than two dozen calls to action,” said Aboriginal Affairs Minister Arlene...
June 17, 2022
2022–2027 Government Action Plan for the Social and Cultural Wellness of the First Nations and Inuit
Together for Future Generations: 2022–2027 Government Action Plan for the Social and Cultural Wellness of the First Nations and Inuit NationTalk: The 2022–2027 Government Action Plan for the Social and Cultural Wellness of the First Nations and Inuit was announced today by Ian Lafrenière, Minister Responsible for Indigenous Affairs. The plan outlines the Gouvernement du...
June 10, 2022
Alberta Government increasing access to suicide prevention supports
NationTalk: Alberta’s government is helping community organizations expand and develop new mental health and suicide prevention supports for youth. The Youth Suicide Prevention Grant Program is providing $3 million over the next two years to 13 youth-focused community programs. These organizations will use the grants to provide mental health support and services to priority youth...
June 2, 2022
Cities key to solve housing affordability challenges: big-city mayors
Big City Mayors’ Caucus Chair and Halifax Mayor Mike Savage issued the following statement on today’s meeting of the caucus. “The Federation of Canadian Municipalities’ Big City Mayors’ Caucus meets today at the outset of FCM’s 2022 Annual Conference to discuss how cities can help lead a strong, inclusive and sustainable recovery. This pandemic has...
June 1, 2022
“Our Path of Resilience” Newfoundland and Labrador action plan to prevent suicide
Government of Newfoundland and Labrador: Our Path of Resilience, a five-year action plan that includes 12 targeted actions and a commitment to improved monitoring, surveillance and research aimed at reducing the incidents of suicide in Newfoundland and Labrador. The action items focus on community mental health literacy and capacity building, as well as prevention, intervention...
May 27, 2022
Quebec cabinet minister vows to protect Indigenous languages following Bill 96 passage
Nunatsiaq News: Quebec Indigenous Affairs Minister Ian Lafrenière says he’s committed to supporting Indigenous people in the province, after his government approved a new law this week protecting French language use. On Tuesday, the Quebec National Assembly voted to pass Bill 96, which aims to affirm French as the only official language in the province. It’s...
May 11, 2022
22nd anniversary of the Nisga’a Final Agreement: Canada’s First Modern Treaty
Crown–Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada, British Columbia Ministry of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation, Nisg̱a’a Lisims Government NationTalk: The governments of Canada, British Columbia and the Nisg̱a’a Nation are commemorating the 22nd anniversary of the signing of British Columbia’s first modern Treaty, the Nisg̱a’a Final Agreement. The anniversary is being commemorated this week at the...
May 9, 2022
Pillars for Life: The Saskatchewan Suicide Prevention Plan -Two-Year Anniversary
Government of Saskatchewan: Key actions during Year Two have included: With the record investment in mental health and addictions in 2022-23, the Government of Saskatchewan has now invested over $92 million in targeted mental health and addictions initiatives since 2018. This includes over $3 million for initiatives related to Pillars for Life since it was...
April 25, 2022
Hudson’s Bay Company transfers former flagship store to Southern Chiefs’ Organization
A Winnipeg landmark Rich in Symbolism Comes Under Indigenous Control New York Times: The bay announced that it was giving the property and the building to Southern Chiefs Organization, which represents 34 Manitoba First Nations. Having secured about 100 million Canadian dollars in funding, the majority from the federal government, the Southern Chiefs have ambitious...
April 21, 2022
Directive on Litigation upholds Indigenous Rights
Directives on Civil Litigation involving Indigenous Peoples Ministry of BC Attorney-General: To better protect the rights of Indigenous Peoples and as a step toward implementation of the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (Declaration Act), the Province, in collaboration with Indigenous Peoples, has developed a new approach to litigation. Regional Chief Terry Teegee,...
April 20, 2022
Appointment of Senior Indigenous Advisor
Advanced Education, Education and Social Services have established a senior out-of-scope Indigenous Advisor role to lead internal and external engagement and to provide Ministry advice on strategies, policies, programs and partnerships that will lead to improving Indigenous outcomes. Other initiatives:...
April 11, 2022
Ahtahkakoop Cree Nation settles Treaty Land Entitlement Claim
CBC: Ahtahkakoop Cree Nation, Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada and the Government of Saskatchewan – have concluded tripartite negotiations and reached a settlement agreement for the Ahtahkakoop Cree Nation Treaty Land Entitlement Claim. Ahtahkakoop adhered to Treaty 6 in 1876, which promised one square mile per family of five, or 128 acres per person....
April 7, 2022
Budget 2022 invests $11B in Indigenous reconciliation initiatives
Budget 2022 proposes to invest $11 billion over six years to continue to support Indigenous children and families, and to help Indigenous communities continue to grow and shape the`ir futures through the following initiatives: Child Welfare: ($4,297M) $4.017B to support long-term reforms to improve implementation of Jordan’s principle $280M over 5 years to support implementation...
April 7, 2022
Budget 2022 Housing Budget
Access to safe and affordable housing is critical to improving health and social outcomes and to ensuring a better future for Indigenous communities and children. That is why the federal government has committed more than $2.7 billion to support housing in Indigenous communities since 2015. Building on these investments, Budget 2022 proposes to provide a...
March 11, 2022
A new reconciliation agreement between the Sts’ailes and British Columbia
STS’AILES XA’XA TEMEXW – A new reconciliation agreement between the Sts’ailes and British Columbia will support Sts’ailes’ social, cultural, economic and environmental goals, and increase prosperity for people in the lower Fraser Valley. Sts’ailes Chief Ralph Leon shared in the Halq’emeylem language, “Ey swayel mekw’wat. Ey swayel tl’ó wáyél. Letstemot iyém te tset tl’ó wáyél....
March 3, 2022
Pursuing legislative solution to end impact of enfranchisement under the Indian Act
The Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Indigenous Services and Juristes Power Law, who represent the plaintiffs in the Nicholas v Canada (Attorney General), are pleased to announce that they have reached a mutual agreement to put the litigation on hold while working to pursue a legislative solution to end the ongoing impact of enfranchisement under...
February 25, 2022
Apology
BC Government expressed its deep regret for the mistakes of past governments in their treatment of Aboriginal people....
February 23, 2022
Other Indigenous Protected Areas
Three IPCAs have been established since 2018: Ts’udé Nilįné Tueyata, Edéhzhíe, and Thaidene Nëné in the Northwest Territories. The Indigenous Leadership Initiative served as partners in these projects. We also work with 23 of the 27 Nations whose proposals received support from the federal Nature Fund, a $175 million investment in creating new protected areas....
December 14, 2021
2021 Fall Economic Statement
Government of Canada: This fiscal update includes a provision to settle the cases on harm to First Nation children currently before the Canadian Human Rights Tribunal and to invest in transforming the services offered to First Nation children and their families. We have provisioned $20 billion for compensation and $20 billion to improve the system...
December 10, 2021
Second Annual (2021) Statutory Report
Release of “Second Annual (2021) Statutory Report Pursuant to Section 10 of the Department of Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Act, Statutes of Canada, Chapter 29, 2019”. The report covers the period between April 1, 2020 and March 31, 2021 and emphasizes that the government’s path to reconciliation is guided by the: Report of the...
November 17, 2021
Bill 18 “Indigenous Identity” and Bill 29 “Interpretation Act Amendments”
BC Government – Tabled Bill 18, which adds Indigenous identity as a protected ground against discrimination in the B.C. Human Rights Code. He also tabled Bill 29, which amends the Interpretation Act to make it clear that all provincial laws uphold, and do not diminish, the rights of Indigenous people protected under section 35 of...
November 16, 2021
Modern Treaty and Self-Government Partners Forum Founding Agreement
Government of NWT – Leaders from the Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) and the five Indigenous governments with modern treaty and self-government agreements in the Northwest Territories held their third meeting as the Modern Treaty and Self-Government Partners (MTSGP). Leaders discussed a range of issues of mutual interest related to implementation of land, resources,...
November 10, 2021
Québec Government and Québec Native Women Quarterly Meetings
Québec Government – The Secrétariat aux affaires autochtones and Quebec Native Women (QNW) have decided to hold quarterly meetings. The meetings will make it possible to define solutions for the priority issues faced by the Indigenous women and girls represented by the group, which include: health, wellbeing, employment, poverty, justice, domestic and family violence, and...
October 19, 2021
Grand Economic Circle of Indigenous People and Quebec
Québec Government – Under the theme “Change requires your commitment!”, this call for commitment aims to invite Quebec businesses to make commitments to the Indigenous peoples. A document presenting the Vision for the Future of Indigenous Peoples has been prepared to help companies formulate commitments that will be meaningful and promising. This document contains an...
October 14, 2021
Grand Economic Circle of Indigenous People and Quebec
The Government of Quebec and the Assembly of First Nations Quebec-Labrador (AFNQL) – are holding the Grand Economic Circle of Indigenous People and Quebec on November 25 and 26, 2021 to discuss the full participation of Indigenous people in Quebec’s economy as well as economic recovery, It will also be an opportunity for Quebec’s elected officials...
October 8, 2021
The Path to Reconciliation Act Amendments
The Manitoba government has introduced amendments to Bill 75, “the Path to Reconciliation Amendment Act” that would establish the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls Calls for Justice as a key component of its approach to advancing truth and reconciliation in Manitoba. Under this legislation, Manitoba’s efforts are to be guided...
September 24, 2021
Québec Micmac Nation Discussion Panel
The Québec government has appointed a new negotiator to represent it on the Québec-Mi’kmaq Nation discussion panel. Gilles Rouleau has been selected to fill this important position and will take up his duties on September 30, 2021. The Québec government wishes to maintain harmonious nation-to-nation relations with the Listuguj, Gesgapegiag and Gespeg Mi’kmaq communities, based...
September 17, 2021
Progress Report on Implementation of the Viens Commission Recommendations
Release of an interim assessment and review of the progress of the government’s initiatives, and focus on forthcoming stages of the government’s response to the “Public Inquiry Commission on Relations between Indigenous Peoples and Certain Public Services in Québec (the Viens Commission… The J’ai espoir plan that ultimately calls for $200 million in investments, of...
August 14, 2021
Indigenous Community Infrastructure Fund
Federal Government announced an investment of $4.3 billion over four years for the Indigenous Community Infrastructure Fund. Starting in 2021-22, this fund will support immediate demands, as prioritized by Indigenous partners. This includes: $2.709 billion to support First Nations on reserve $517.7 million to support Self-Government and Modern Treaty Partners $517.8 million to support Inuit...
July 20, 2021
Revisions to “Draft” Action Plan to Implement UNDRIP
McCarthy Tetrault – The “draft” action Plan released in June 202 “identifies 79 proposed actions that the provincial government will take to achieve the objectives of UNDRIP in cooperation with Indigenous peoples over the next five years. The Province is currently seeking input on the plan and the deadline for submissions is July 31, 2021....
July 7, 2021
Ministerial Committee on Anti-Racism
The Ministerial Committee on Anti-Racism continues work for further action and community engagement to develop the necessary tools to stop racism in Newfoundland and Labrador. Ministers agree on the following actions: Reviewing legislative provisions to identify options to address hate speech in provincial laws; Launching an anti-racism and anti-Islamophobia public education campaign, in consultation with...
July 6, 2021
Appointment of Mary Simon as Governor-General of Canada
Appointment of Mary Simon as Canada’s 30th Governor General since Confederation. Mary Simon (Ningiukudluk) is an Inuk born in Kangisualuujjuaq, Nunavik (Quebec). She is an advocate for Inuit rights and culture in Canada. She has represented the Inuit to the Canadian government and the United Nations, including work that led to the Inuit people’s inclusion...
June 18, 2021
Creation of Super Ministry
Norther Ontario Business – Ministry of Northern Development, Mines, Natural Resources and Forestry and Ministry of Indigenous Services are all handled by Minister Greg Rickford...
May 17, 2021
Northern Yukon First Nations Chiefs’ Priorities
NationTalk – The Northern Yukon First Nations Chiefs recently met as part of their commitment to hold regular meetings and prepare for sharing areas of concern with the newly elected territorial government. Three issues were identified as priorities: DAWSON REGIONAL LAND USE PLAN The Northern Yukon First Nations Chiefs have been united in wanting to...
May 3, 2021
Indigenous Human Rights Strategy
The Alberta Human Rights Commission is seeking feedback on its new draft Indigenous Human Rights Strategy. The research shows that Indigenous people face disproportionate rates of racism, discrimination, and hate in their day-to-day lives, and they continue to experience disadvantages and injustices as a result of the lasting effects of Canada’s colonial legacy. Despite this,...
April 24, 2021
National Dialogue on Indigenous Health
The Third National Dialogue on Indigenous Health – Federal Government announced specific funding allocations of $126.7 million over three years, first announced in Budget 2021, to support efforts to address racism in Canada’s health systems. This includes: $33.3 million to improve access to culturally safe services, with a focus on services for Indigenous women, 2SLGBTQQIA+...
April 23, 2021
Budget 2021
Budget 2021 invests the following towards “MEANINGFUL RECONCILIATION building on the Fall 2020 Stronger BC Economic Recovery Plan to advance reconciliation and build a more inclusive economy. It includes funding for work with Indigenous peoples to advance reconciliation, and ensure Indigenous peoples can fully participate in B.C.’s economic recovery. Budget 2021 adds $60 million in...
April 19, 2021
2021 Speech from the Throne
We will invest more than $18 billion to further narrow gaps between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples, support healthy, safe, and prosperous Indigenous communities, and advance reconciliation with First Nations, Inuit, and the Métis Nation. We will invest more than $6 billion for infrastructure in Indigenous communities, and $2.2 billion to help end the national tragedy...
April 16, 2021
Wet’suwet’en title and rights.
The Province is providing Wet’suwet’en Hereditary Chiefs with $7.22 million to support work to implement Wet’suwet’en title and rights. The funding will be used to support Wet’suwet’en governance, engage in unity-building activities and facilitate ongoing discussions related to the 2020 Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). The three-year funding commitment will support the Wet’suwet’en in their work...
April 16, 2021
Nunavik Indigenous Government Agreement with Québec and Canada
Nunatsiaq News – Makivik Corp. will resume negotiations over a self-determination agreement for Nunavik with the governments of Canada and Québec to establish a form of Indigenous government in the region based on Inuit values, culture and language. Makivik’s self-determination committee is made up of representatives from Nunavik’s major regional organizations: Kativik Regional Government Nunavik...
February 18, 2021
IAC Terms of Reference
The Canada Energy Regulator’s Indigenous Advisory Committee (IAC) and Board of Directors – have co-developed and, at a joint meeting in early February, co-endorsed the Committee’s Terms of Reference. This represents a key milestone in the Committee’s development, as it begins its important and groundbreaking work with the CER. As set out in the foundational...
December 15, 2020
Racism in Québec: ZERO TOLERANCE – Report of the Groupe d’action contre le racism
Initially announced in June 15, 2020 “The Groupe d’action contre le racism” was specifically asked to develop a series of effective actions to fight against racism by identifying which sectors have high-priority needs for measures in this area, particularly public security, justice, school systems, housing and employment. As part of its mandate, the “Groupe d’action...
December 7, 2020
Legislative Development Protocol
Cabin Radio – A new Legislative Development Protocol from the Intergovernmental Council of the Northwest Territories gives Indigenous governments a seat at the table for decisions about land and resource management. The protocol is consistent with the IGA commitment to collaborate on changes to land and resource management systems, as well as providing a consistent...
December 1, 2020
The Path to Reconciliation Annual Report, 2020
The section on Legacies outlines the Manitoba government’s efforts to address the disparities existing between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples in Manitoba’s social, political and economic systems and institutions. We have collaborated with many different service providers and organizations to address gaps in the areas of child welfare, education, language and culture, and health and justice....
November 17, 2020
AFN-QL Memorandum of Understanding
The Memorandum of Understanding signed today will lead to a sweeping technical and financial feasibility study for phase I of the project and to pre-feasibility studies for phases II and III. Ian Lafrenière, Minister Responsible for Indigenous Affairs established a joint political table with Ghislain Picard, Chief of the Assembly of First Nations Québec-Labrador. Co-chaired,...
October 30, 2020
First Annual (2020) Statutory Report
Release of “First Annual (2020) Statutory Report Pursuant to Section 10 of the Department of Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Act, Statutes of Canada, Chapter 29, 2019“. The Department of Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Act came into force on July 15, 2019 and established CIRNAC, while the Department of Indigenous Services Act established ISC....
October 16, 2020
Emergency Meeting on Heath
After the death of Joyce Echaquan at a hospital in Québec, the Government of Canada convened an urgent meeting with provincial and territory health officials and National Indigenous organizations with the following objectives: to listen to lived experiences of Indigenous people and health care professionals regarding systemic racism in federal, provincial and territorial health systems...
September 1, 2020
Pandemic Commitments
Throughout the pandemic, the Government has made it a priority to support Indigenous communities, which has helped contain the spread of COVID-19 and kept people safe. That is something the Government will continue to do. The Government will walk the shared path of reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples, and remain focused on implementing the commitments made...
July 15, 2020
Specific Claims Settlements
Sipekne’katik and the Millbrook First Nation A historic agreement has been concluded for the settlement of the Halifax County 1919 Invalid Surrender Specific Claim with Sipekne’katik and the Millbrook First Nation. The parties agreed upon a compensation amount of $49,204,071 to settle the specific claim. This specific claim addresses the issue of Canada breaching its...
June 30, 2020
2019/20 UNDRIP Report Card
Release of the 2019/2020 UNDRIP Report Card outlines progress made towards implementation for the time period from the date on which the Declaration Act was brought into force (November 28, 2019) until end of fiscal year 2019/20 (March 31, 2020). Progress to date includes the following: Revitalizing Indigenous Languages Improving Justice for Indigenous People Improving...
June 18, 2020
Renaming “Discovery Day”
Renaming “Discovery Day” which was established to celebrate the discovery of Newfoundland by John Cabot in 1497. Consultations must take place with Indigenous governments and organizations in the spirit of reconciliation regarding this holiday...
June 18, 2020
Renaming “Discovery Day”
Discovery Day, formerly celebrated the discovery of Newfoundland by John Cabot in 1497. The Provincial Government has determined that it is not appropriate to refer to the June 24 holiday as ‘Discovery Day.’ Before a new name can be established, consultations must take place with Indigenous governments and organizations in the spirit of reconciliation regarding...
May, 2020
Pillars for Life: The Saskatchewan Suicide Prevention Plan
Informed by the calls to action and recommendations found in the Saskatchewan Advocate for Children and Youth Special Report “Shhh…Listen!! We Have Something to Say! Youth Voices from the North” (2017, the Provincial Auditor’s Report 2018– Volume 1, Chapter 8, the Provincial Auditor’s Report 2019 – Volume 2, Chapter 24 and the Federation of Sovereign...
March 12, 2020
L’nuey
The Guardian – L’nuey means “belonging to or pertaining to the Mi’kmaq People as a whole” in the Mi’kmaq language. The organization is focused on the protection and implementation of Mi’kmaq Aboriginal and treaty rights in P.E.I. L’nuey is: A rights-based initiative. Focused on negotiations, consultations, governance development. Distinct from Mi’kmaq Confederacy of P.E.I. Governed...
March 11, 2020
Budget 2020-21
The government will invest $219.2 million over six years to increase its support for Indigenous communities....
February 17, 2020
La Grande Alliance
Quebec City – Québec Premier François Legault and Grand Chief of the Grand Council of the Crees (Eeyou Istchee) and Chairman of the Cree Nation Government, Dr. Abel Bosum, officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding on collaborative, long-term, balanced economic development in a spirit of respect for Cree values in the Eeyou Istchee James Bay...
February 13, 2020
2020 Speech from the Throne
Priorities led by Department of Executive and Indigenous Affairs: Settle and implement treaty, land, resources, and self-government agreements Implement the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Increase regional decision-making authority (with support of other Depts and agencies) Priorities where Department of Executive and Indigenous Affairs has a supporting role: Strengthen the government’s...
January 5, 2020
BC Human Rights Tribunal Report
BC Human Rights tribunal releases “Expanding Our Vision: Cultural Equality & Indigenous Peoples”, a report addressing serious access to justice concerns for Indigenous peoples bringing human rights complaints to the tribunal. makes nine recommendations. Removing barriers to access to the Human Rights Tribunal is not enough. Structural change is needed to incorporate Indigenous definitions of...
December 5, 2019
2019 Speech from the Throne
AFN – “This is the first Throne Speech to include a section on ‘Reconciliation’: take action to co-develop and introduce legislation to implement the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples in the first year of the new mandate; continue the work of eliminating all long-term drinking water advisories on reserve by 2021,...
November 22, 2019
Response to UNDRIP
In response to a question about New Brunswick adopting and implementing UNDRIP, the Minister for Aboriginal Affairs indicated that their priority was to undertake a technical review of the BC Declaration and understand the Aboriginal treaty rights and the peace and friendship rights....
November 19, 2019
Speech from the Throne
Limited reference to Indigenous issues and/or priorities other than three specific references to restorative justice programs for youth offenders, formalize new resource development agreements and develop new opportunities for northern tourism and move forward with the principles of shared management with First Nations and Métis people in order to ensure sustainable wildlife and fish populations....
November 19, 2019
Dedicated Minister of Aboriginal Affairs
The government appointed a full-time Minister of Aboriginal Affairs because “rebuilding this relationship deserves a full- time minister”...
November 19, 2019
2019 Speech from the Throne
Speech from the throne focused on the government’s priorities and included initiatives planned in the six key priority areas to build upon progress made over the past year, including: World-class Education Dependable Public Health Care Vibrant and Sustainable Communities Energized Private Sector Affordable and Sustainable Government High Performing Organization Form an All Nations and Parties...
November 5, 2019
Annual BC Cabinet Ministers & First Nations Leadership Council
BCAFN – In just one year, the Province and the First Nations Leadership Council (FNLC) have worked together to deliver on promises to share provincial gaming revenues and introduce legislation that enshrines the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UN Declaration) in provincial law. The Declaration will make BC the first province...
October 24, 2019
Intro Bill 41 “The Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act”
Premier John Horgan’s government introduced Bill 41 – ”The Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act” to have the laws of BC reflect the United Nations The declaration’s 46 articles are aimed at making sure Indigenous peoples can survive with dignity and are treated fairly and with equity after colonization. (Toronto Star) The Declaration...
October 10, 2019
Roundtable with Indigenous leaders
The Northwest Territories’ incoming government will hold a day-long round-table meeting with leaders of more than a dozen Indigenous groups on Oct. 17, 2019. “This meeting will provide a forum for leaders to share their perspectives and voice their concerns and interests about the many issues and opportunities the Northwest Territories is faced with today,”...
October 2, 2019
Premier apologises to First Nations and Inuit
CTV News – Premier Francois Legault apologized to the First Nations and Inuit people of Quebec for the province’s treatment of them. The apology was the first of 142 calls to action laid out by the Viens commission, which concluded in a scathing report released Monday that the province’s Indigenous communities suffered “systemic discrimination.”...
September, 2019
The Path to Reconciliation Annual Report, 2019
The first sections highlight new efforts the Manitoba government undertook between April 1, 2018 and March 31, 2019, while the later sections identify the previously reported and ongoing activities. Each year, the Manitoba government implements and supports a number of initiatives that further reconciliation outside of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s Calls to...
September 9, 2019
Assembly of First Nations Québec-Labrador & First Nations of Québec and Labrador Health and Social Services Commission
The AFNQL and the FNQLHSSC have joined the collective, Association québécoise de prévention du suicide (AQPS) to develop a National Suicide Prevention Strategy for First Nations and Inuit. Comprised of organizations working in the areas of suicide prevention and health, the collective aims to convince the Quebec government to adopt an effective national strategy to...
August 28, 2019
The CER Act
The CER Act ensures Indigenous participation in the work of the CER through: Recognition of Indigenous rights and confirmation of the Government’s duty to consult, including a requirement to assess impacts on these rights and consider Indigenous knowledge in decision making. A legislated requirement that at least one member of the Board of Directors and...
August 27, 2019
Specific Claims Settlements
Popkum, Chawathil, Shxw’ōw’hámel, Skawahlook, Yale, Peters and Union Bar First Nations Negotiated settlements resolve a legal obligation owed by Canada to these First Nations when a reserve they held in common was transferred in 1959 to the then-newly formed Seabird Island First Nation without meaningful consent or compensation. The specific claim settlements will provide each...
July 26, 2019
Tripartite Framework Agreement
The Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations, Carolyn Bennett, and Chiefs George Ginnish and Rebecca Knockwood, co-Chairs of Mi’gmawe’l Tplu’taqnn Incorporated, representing eight of the nine Mi’gmaq communities in New Brunswick announced a tripartite Framework Agreement to focus negotiations on the implementation of Aboriginal and treaty rights, the resolution of Aboriginal title, and self-determination of the Mi’gmaq...
June 29, 2019
Dedicated Ministry of Indigenous Affairs eliminated
tbnewswatch.com – The Ministry of Indigenous Services has been integrated into a combined Ministry of Energy, Northern Affairs and Mines, Energy and Ministry of Indigenous Affairs. Under the previous Liberal government those responsibilities had been divided between three individual ministers....
May 28, 2019
Indigenous Land Acknowledgement
Indigenous land acknowledgements — once symbolic openings of most government events under the NDP — are now a matter of “personal preference” at UCP official events according to Minister of Indigenous Relations Rick Wilson. Land acknowledgments are statements recognizing the historic and ongoing presence and connection of different First Nations and Métis to the land....
April 12, 2019
Indigenous Relations budget cut
This year its base funding was reduced by 15 per cent to 74.4 million, down from 88 million last year, and there is no allotment for one-time investments such as claim settlements....
March 18, 2019
Specific Claims Settlements
Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg First Nation Signed a historic Memorandum of Understanding on reconciliation and the settlement agreement of 29 specific claims related to the surrender of reserve lands. The discussions under the Memorandum of Understanding will cover many topics, including Aboriginal title, rights recognition, socio-economic development, consultation and self-determination. The goal of this process is...
February 18, 2019
Lottery Revenue Sharing
British Columbia Lottery Corporation revenue is going to be shared with the First Nations and the first phase of allocations amounts to 7% of gross revenues....
February 13, 2019
2019 Speech from the Throne
BC Assembly of First Nations (BCAFN) Regional Chief Terry Teegee welcomes the NDP government’s progressive actions identified throughout the 2019 Throne Speech today, including: develop legislation with the First Nations Leadership Council to implement the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples; gaming revenues shared with First Nations communities; work in collaboration with...
January 15, 2019
Framework Agreement
The Framework Agreement represents an important commitment from the Government of Canada, the Province of Prince Edward Island and the Mi’kmaq of PEI towards a path of reconciliation. With this agreement, we move forward together in strengthening the relationship between the federal and provincial Crown and the Mi’kmaq of PEI. In particular, the Framework Agreement...
January 11, 2019
Directive on Civil Litigation
The Honourable Jody Wilson-Raybould, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, issued the Directive on Civil Litigation Involving Indigenous Peoples. The Directive will guide the Government of Canada’s legal approaches, positions and decisions taken in civil litigation involving Aboriginal and treaty rights, and the Crown’s obligation towards Indigenous peoples. This is to ensure the...
January 10, 2019
Wet’suwet’en conflict
UBCIC – Premier John Horgan compared the Province’s role in the ongoing conflict in Wet’suwet’en territory with the recent consent-based negotiations in the Broughton Archipelago with the ‘Namgis, Kwikwasutinuxw Haxwa’mis and Mamalilikulla First Nations. The big difference is that the latter “included jointly developed consent-based process where our Title and Rights were recognized and as...
January 7, 2019
Official Apology
APTN News – The Government of Saskatchewan officially apologizes to the survivors of the Sixties Scoop when approximately 20,000 First Nations children were seized from their homes and re-located to non-Indigenous homes. The practice stripped children of their language, culture and family ties....
2019
Modern Treaties Timelines
Modern Treaties: Comprehensive Land Claim Settlements or Self-Government Agreements Date Agreement Indigenous Group 1977 James Bay and Northern Québec Agreement James Bay Cree 1978 Northeastern Québec Agreement Inuit 1984 Inuvialuit Final Agreement Western Arctic Inuit: Northwest Territories 1986 Sechelt Indian Band Self Government Agreement 1992 Gwich’in Agreement Northwestern portion of the Northwest Territories and...
December 1, 2018
The Principals’ Accord on Transforming Treaty Negotiations
Government of Canada, the Government of British Columbia and the First Nations Summit (the Principals) -signed the “Principals’ Accord” that states that extinguishment and surrender of rights have no place in modern-day Crown-Indigenous relations or agreements. Instead, the federal and provincial governments and First Nations Summit have agreed that Aboriginal title and rights must be continued...
November 29, 2018
First Nations gaming distribution limited partnership
B.C. First Nations will share in provincial gaming revenue to support self-government, strong, healthy communities, and services that make life better for families. This funding will be a central piece of Budget 2019 to support reconciliation. Funding will focus on priorities in the following framework: health and wellness; infrastructure, safety, transportation and housing; economic and...
November 29, 2018
UNDRIP
The BC Assembly of First Nations, First Nations Summit and Union of BC Indian Chiefs, working together as the First Nations Leadership Council (FNLC), and the Province announced they are co-developing new legislation for introduction in 2019 to implement the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples in B.C. The Commitment recognizes our...
November 28, 2018
M”kmaw Nation Rights
Ottawa is committed to advancing the Mi’kmaw Nation and recognizing Indigenous Peoples’ inherent right to self-determination, a key federal official told a First Nations self-governance summit in Halifax Wednesday. The three-day event, which wraps up Thursday, is focused on finding a pathway to nationhood for Indigenous Peoples in the Atlantic region known as Mi’kma’ki....
November 14, 2018
Recognition and Implementation of Indigenous Rights Frwamework
The Liberal government won’t be tabling legislation to create its promised Federal Recognition and Implementation of Indigenous Rights Framework this fall as previously planned. Crown-Indigenous Relations Minister Carolyn Bennett’s office, which has the lead on the file, issued a statement saying work would continue to develop the framework to enshrine Section 35 rights in the...
October 30, 2018
Orange Shirt Day
Premier Dwight Bell called on all members of the legislature, in the spirit of reconciliation and revitalizing our relationship with Indigenous peoples, to join with him in recognizing September 30 as Orange Shirt Day in Newfoundland and Labrador in acknowledging survivors of the residential school system....
October 2, 2018
Bill No. 78 – Truth and Reconciliation Commitment Act:
Bill No, 78 – Truth and Reconciliation Commitment Act: An Act to Implement the Calls to Action of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada”, a private members bill introduced in the Nova Scotia legislature with two main commitments: The Province is committed to implementing the Calls to Action of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission...
September 12, 2018
Letter from AFN-QL to new Premier
The Chief of the Assembly of First Nations Quebec-Labrador (AFNQL), Ghislain Picard, advised the next Premier that the relationship between the Government of Quebec and the First Nations will have to be completely transformed. In the letter, Chief Picard noted that First Nations’ rights have never been fully recognized by the provincial government. Raises five...
August 21, 2018
Open Letter to PM Trudeau
CBC – Mary Ellen Turpel-Lafond, now director of the University of British Columbia’s Indian Residential School History and Dialogue Centre, Wilton Littlechild, former commissioner with the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, and Ed John, grand chief of the First Nations Summit Task Group in B.C., sent a letter to Prime Minister Trudeau calling for a reset...
August 20, 2018
The Path to Reconciliation Annual Report, 2018
The Manitoba Government reports on its actions following the two broad categories of “Legacies” and “Reconciliation” used by the TRC. The section on Legacies outlines the Manitoba governments efforts to address the disparities between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people in Manitoba’s social, political and economic systems and institutions. We have collaborated with many different service providers...
May 28, 2018
Sixties Scoop Apology
Premier Rachel Notley, officially apologizes on behalf of the Alberta Government to survivors of the Sixties Scoop. From the 1950s to the late 1980s, about 20,000 Indigenous children were seized from their birth families and relocated to non-Indigenous homes, stripping the children of their language, traditions and family ties....
May 24, 2018
dermiNation Moving Beyond the Indian Act
The first Indigenous-led summit to explore moving beyond the Indian Act closed today with a strong call for First Nations to exercise their self-determination and to forge a new path for their people. “We have heard loud and clear that moving beyond the Indian Act must start at the community level with the full engagement...
May 23, 2018
dermiNation Moving Beyond the Indian Act
Nishnawbe Aski Nation (NAN) and Osgoode Law School have collaborated to organize the first-ever Indigenous-led summit that will bring together leaders to create a plan for moving beyond the Indian Act. “determiNation” is described as a national conference to plan for a new relationship between Canada and Indigenous peoples based on rights, recognition and reconciliation....
May 23, 2018
Draft Principles that Guide the Province of British Columbia’s Relationship with Indigenous Peoples
Release of “Draft principles” that recognizes that: all relations with Indigenous peoples need to be based on the recognition and implementation of their right to self- determination, including the inherent right of self-government. reconciliation is a fundamental purpose of section 35 of the Constitution Act, 1982. the honour of the Crown guides the conduct of...
May 18, 2018
Federation of Sovereign Indian Nations
Suicide Prevention Strategy May 18, 2018 500+ First Nations youth have committed suicide since 2005, 4 x average for non-indigenous. First Nations girls aged 10 to 19 faced a suicide rate 26 times higher than non-First Nations girls in Saskatchewan. The strategy will focus on access to mental health facilities The Federation of Sovereign Indigenous...
May 16, 2018
First Nations Fiscal Management Act (FNMA) and the Framework Agreement on First Nation Land Management (FA)
“Our Lands, Our Jurisdiction, Our Institutions: First Nations Leading the Way” First Nations who have chosen to work beyond the Indian Act are coming together to set the stage for the next generation of First Nations led initiatives that will support our jurisdiction and expanded government powers for Indigenous communities. Currently 276 First Nations, from...
April 17, 2018
Treaty Relationship Agreement with Nishnawbe Aski Nation
Ontario Premier Kathleen Wynne and Grand Chief Alvin Fiddler today marked the signing of the Treaty Relationship Agreement to strengthen the relationship between the province and Nishnawbe Aski Nation. It lays the foundation for more meaningful discussions on priority issues that affect First Nation people and communities, such as economic development, resource development, environmental protection,...
April 13, 2018
Speech to BC Business Council
Perhaps most importantly, however, a shift to recognition of rights, including Indigenous self-determination and the inherent right of self-government, means that Canada will be an active supporter in the building and re-building of Indigenous nations and governments. We will finally be active partners in supporting Indigenous Nations and governments as they do the work of...
April 9, 2018
Government Housing Partnership Framework
Federal, provincial and territorial governments are primary partners in housing and have a shared responsibility and complementary roles for housing. This is why together, under the Partnership, the federal, provincial and territorial governments will work together to help make housing more affordable and accessible through the following initiatives: 1. Canada Housing Benefit 2. Canada Community...
March 28, 2018
We Rise Together – Achieving Pathway to Canada Target 1
The Indigenous Circle of Experts (ICE) – was created as part of the Pathway to Canada Target 1 to develop a report providing advice to federal, provincial, territorial and Indigenous governments on how to achieve Canada Target 1 through the appropriate recognition of Indigenous leadership and knowledge systems in the conservation of the land and water....
February 14, 2018
Recognition and Implementation of Rights Framework.
Prime Minister Trudeau announced that the government will develop in full partnership with First Nations, Inuit and Métis people a new recognition and implementation of Indigenous rights framework that will include new ways to recognize and implement Indigenous rights. This will include new recognition and implementation of rights legislation. Going forward recognition of rights will...
February 14, 2018
45th Anniversary of release of “Together Today for Our Children Tomorrow”
This document is responsible for reshaping relationships between the Governments of Canada, Yukon and Yukon First Nations. Its vision was brought to life through the Umbrella Final Agreement, which was signed 25 years ago this year. The Final and Self-Government Agreements that followed have paved the way for collaboration between governments, and their implementation continues...
February 13, 2018
2018 Speech from the Throne
In the Speech from the Throne, the NDP government pledged to develop a cross-ministry framework to meet its stated commitment to the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous People, the calls to action of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission and the Tsilhqot’in decision. The Union of BC Indian Chiefs sited recent approval of...
2018
Mental Health Commission of Canada: Roots for Life
Roots for Life is an evidence-informed model launched in 2018 by the Mental Health Commission of Canada (MHCC) and is designed to help communities develop suicide prevention guidelines and tools that meet specific needs. The Roots of Hope project is based on community engagement and input from people with lived experience. It focuses on five...
December 4, 2017
ISC Health Priorities
Indigenous Services Minister Jane Philpott has officially been given responsibility for overseeing the delivery of First Nations and Inuit health services. Key priorities of the new Ministry of Indigenous Services Canada: Improving Health outcomes Quality Education Child & Family Services Reliable Infrastructure, including Housing & Water A New Fiscal Relationship...
November 1, 2017
Issues with southern Canada
Premier Bob McLeod issued a red alert calling for an urgent national debate on the future of the Northwest Territories who believe their reconciliation efforts and economic development opportunities are being undermined by Ottawa and the political needs and voices of southern Canada...
September 10, 2017
Assembly of First Nations
AFN will mark World Suicide Prevention Day on September 10, 2017 by focusing on culture as a way to promote life and wellness, shifting the focus from ‘suicide prevention’ to ‘life promotion.’ Part of this effort involves a social media campaign called ‘Culture for Life‘, encouraging First Nations youth to share how they are connecting to their...
August 28, 2017
New INAC organization
New INAC organization: Carolyn Bennett is now Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs, and former Health Minister Jane Philpott will become the Minister of Indigenous Services (recommendation from Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples in 1996). The current Indigenous Affairs Department will be dissolved through legislation to end the Indian Act...
August 17, 2017
Indigenous and Municipal Affairs Re-org
Winnipeg Sun – The previous post for Indigenous and Municipal Relations will now split into two departments, led by a Municipal Relations Minister and an Indigenous and Northern Relations Minister....
July 25, 2017
Mandate Letters
New NDP premier re-affirmed his party’s commitment to adopt the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and the calls to action of Canada’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission and has each of his 22 ministers to review policies, programs and legislation to determine how to bring the principles of the declaration into action...
July 24, 2017
Interim Social Emergencies Protocol: Governments of Canada and Ontario
Goal is to deliver faster, more efficient assistance when crises occur: Will work closely with Indigenous partners, including Nishnawbe Aski Nation, and the federal government to ensure efficient and effective coordination of efforts and resources to address this crisis. We will also establish an Indigenous Youth and Community Wellness Secretariat....
June 28, 2017
Government Action Plan for the Social and Cultural Development of the First Nations and Inuit
The initiatives in the strategy with a budget of $147.3M for 2017-2022 are grouped under four strategic priorities: Enhance services Establish new services: 27 measures Enhance the existing service offer: 36 measures Promote the Indigenous culture and languages Support the blossoming of aboriginal cultures: 8 measures Strengthen the aboriginal languages: 4 measures Develop the power...
June 26, 2017
Inuusivut Anninaqtuk Action Plan: 2017-2022
Government of Nunavut, Nunavut Tunngavik Inc., RCMP “V Division” Isaksimagit Inuusirmi Katujjiqatigiit Embrace Life Council A five-year Nunavut Suicide Prevention Strategy Action Plan announced June 26, 2017 as a co-host of Facebook’s Boost Your Community summit. The action plan defines commitments, outcomes and actions for 2017-2022. As a complement to the action plan, program funding...
June 12, 2017
Common Statement of Shared Health Priorities
Common Statement of Principles on Shared Health Priorities: Acknowledges the commitment of federal, provincial and territorial governments to continue working with First Nations, Inuit and Métis to improve access to health services and health outcomes of Indigenous peoples and discuss progress. https://www.canada.ca/content/dam/hc-sc/documents/corporate/transparency_229055456/health-agreements/principles-shared-health-priorities.pdf...
June 1, 2017
The Path to Reconciliation Annual Report, 2017
This report is composed of three sections; Addressing Legacies, Reconciling for the Future and Looking Forward. Engagement with Indigenous nations and Indigenous peoples is integrated into our efforts towards a reconciled province and especially highlighted in the section, Reconciling for our Future – Reconciling Relationships. Addressing Legacies Caring for Children and Families Improving Health Outcomes...
June, 2017
Breaking Point: The Suicide Crisis in Indigenous Communities
Response to Standing Committee on Indigenous and Northern Affairs. Breaking Point: The Suicide Crisis in Indigenous Communities The Committee’s recommendations fall under three broad themes: http://www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Committee/421/INAN/Reports/RP8977643/inanrp09/inanrp09-e.pdf...
May 26, 2017
Indigenous Leaders Roundtable
First Indigenous leader’s roundtable to discuss common interests and update progress on TRC Calls to Action...
March 17, 2017
Federal Meeting on Indigenous Issues
Impacts of INAC split into Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada, MMIWC and Child Welfare as well as health concerns of cannabis use, the opioid crisis, First Nation skill development, infrastructure funding for communities, Yukon River salmon, and the Porcupine caribou herd....
March 1, 2017
Update to “Meeting the Challenge of Reconciliation”
The Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) continues to move towards reconciliation, particularly through the actions outlined in ‘Meeting the Challenge of Reconciliation’. Many of the actions within that document are ongoing, but this update provides some highlights, organized by theme, of additional work done. https://www.eia.gov.nt.ca/sites/eia/files/an_update_to_meeting_the_challenge_of_reconciliation_the_gnwts_response_to_the_trcs_calls_to_action.pdf...
February 22, 2017
Government Re-structuring
The newly merged Intergovernmental and Indigenous Affairs Secretariat and the Office of Labrador Affairs unifies the govt’s efforts to build intergovernmental relations with efforts to advance relationships with Indigenous Governments and Organizations. A separate Office of Labrador Affairs was created to help address unique issues and advance social and economic development in the region. Responsibilities...
February 15, 2017
First Nations Economic Reconciliation
Expanding the Circle: First Nations Economic Reconciliation – Presented by National Indigenous Economic Development Board (NIEDB), in partnership with the National Aboriginal Capital Corporations Association (NACCA), Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada (INAC) and the Public Policy Forum (PPF). Economic reconciliation means ensuring that Indigenous Peoples are not excluded from participating in and benefitting from Canada’s...
December 21, 2016
Establish Viens Commission
Established “Public Inquiry Commission on relations between Indigenous Peoples and certain public services in Québec”: listening, reconciliation and progress, in order to investigate, consider the facts and recommend concrete and effective corrective measures to be implemented by the Government of Québec and Indigenous officials”. Initiated by systemic racism by police in city of Val D’Or...
December 16, 2016
Response to TRC Report
The legacy of residential schools has left lasting impact and trauma for Indigenous People across the country, and its effects are seen daily in Nunavut. Inuit have shown over and over that we are strong and resilient. Now is the time to resolve the issues of the past, and embrace hope for the future. I...
June 10, 2016
First Annual Federal, Provincial, Territorial and Indigenous Forum
Discussed the next steps in the permanent bilateral mechanism process. Commit to three cabinet level meetings per year including one with PM. Funding to establish mechanisms for bilateral meetings with each of the three national indigenous groups: Assembly of First Nations, Métis National Council and Inuit Tapariit Kaanatami...
June 1, 2016
The Path to Reconciliation Annual Report, 2016
Objectives: Manitoba Families; the new government has introduced “The Protecting Children Act‘ to make it easier for government departments, child and family service authorities, community service providers and law enforcement agencies to share information and collaborate when dealing with victimized and at-risk children. the government will foster innovative community and private sector partnerships that promote...
May 30, 2016
Official Apology
Premier Kathleen Wynne apologized today on behalf of the Government of Ontario for the brutalities committed for generations at residential schools and the continued harm this abuse has caused to Indigenous cultures, communities, families and individuals....
May 30, 2016
Journey Together: Ontario’s Commitment to Reconciliation with Indigenous People
Budget commits $250M/3 yrs + $104.5M annually after. “Journey Together” outlines expectations around achieving greater equity with First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples across all dimensions: economic, educational, social, housing, justice system, health, clean environments and land use. Programs and Actions: Understanding the Legacy of Residential Schools Closing Gaps and Removing Barriers Creating a Culturally...
May 25, 2016
First Nations Health Action Plan
Ont. First Nations Health Action Plan (3 yrs) Spread across multiple Calls to Action (incl. annual base funding of $77M). Inc. $7.2M in new funding for 2016-17 to ensure Indigenous people have access to more culturally appropriate care and improved outcomes, focusing on the North where there are significant gaps in health services. This investment...
March 15, 2016
Path to Reconciliation Act
“The Path to Reconciliation” passed unanimously is committed to reconciliation and will be “guided by the calls to action of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission and the principles set out in the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.” Government commits to annual updates 3 months after the fiscal year end. This Bill...
January 12, 2016
Response to TRC Calls to Action
Issued detailed responses/updates to all 94 C2A: “Yukon Government’s Deputy Ministers’ Report to the Premier on the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada Report “Honouring the Truth, Reconciling for the Future”. The Yukon government, in conjunction with First Nations, has undertaken many initiatives as part of ongoing operations that are responsive to the 22 themes...
December 15, 2015
Release of TRC Final Report
Release of the TRC Final report https://nctr.ca/reports2.php...
December 15, 2015
Response to TRC Report
Some of the Government of Saskatchewan’s strategies that are already well underway include: Child Welfare Transformation Strategy Work differently with First Nations and Métis people Increase prevention and support for families; and Renew the child welfare system for launch in 2017 Saskatchewan Disability Strategy Ensure First Nation, Métis and Inuit people experiencing disability are well-supported...
December 15, 2015
Response to TRC Report
Nothing specific. Advocate for Government of Canada to formally adopt...
December 15, 2015
Response to TRC Report
Nova Scotia is committed to continuing to work hand-in-hand with our aboriginal partners as well as our federal, provincial and territorial colleagues to answer the call to action from the commission.” There are opportunities for progress to be made in Nova Scotia. Work already started includes: development of an online treaty education resource for all...
December 8, 2015
Address to AFN National Assembly
Address to the AFN National Assembly – Promise to implement all 94 C2A + remove 2% funding cap, review legislation introduced by Harper Government, commitment to a renewed relationship (i.e. Nation-to-Nation) with Canada’s First Nations, Métis and Inuit...
October 5, 2015
Response to TRC Summary Report
Detailed responses/updates to all 94 C2A The GNWT’s responses are not intended to be a full answer to the recommendations. They represent a new step in the broader process of reconciliation. https://www.eia.gov.nt.ca/sites/eia/files/gnwt_response_to_trc_calls_to_action.pdf...
August 24, 2015
Political Accord
Ontario Premier Kathleen Wynne signed the Accord for the Province, while Ontario Regional Chief Isadore Day signed on behalf of the Political Confederacy and Chiefs-in-Assembly. The Accord creates a formal bilateral relationship framed by the recognition of the treaty relationship. The Accord affirms that First Nations have an inherent right to self-government and that the...
June 22, 2015
Response to TRC Summary Report
As a first step in reconciliation, Alberta apologized on behalf of past governments for not taking a stand to stop children from being taken from their homes and placed in federal residential schools. As a second step of reconciliation, Alberta joined the call for a national inquiry into missing and murdered Indigenous women. The Commission...
June 16, 2015
Response to TRC Summary Report
Nothing specific. Indicated ongoing, current initiatives in Education, Health, Child Welfare, Domestic Violence, Health, Language & Culture, Justice,...
June 14, 2015
Response to TRC Summary report
As a government, we will take the necessary time to review the report and its recommendations, and will work to repair and rebuild the relationship with First Nations. Our government will work collaboratively with First Nation communities to establish, develop and strengthen our relationship, and we will work with other levels of government and institutions to...
June 5, 2015
Joint Task Force on Improving Education
We will create a multi-ministry team to carefully examine this report and the full report once released. We will look to build on successes, such as teaching Treaty and First Nations and Métis histories in the classroom and the Joint Task Force on improving education and employment outcomes for First Nations and Métis...
June 3, 2015
Response to TRC Summary Report
CBC – Already acting upon three TRC Calls to Action: Recognize aboriginal healing practices and use them to treat aboriginal patients Recruit aboriginal healthcare providers in aboriginal communities and across the healthcare field Consult with residential school survivors and aboriginal people to make curriculum about residential schools and other aboriginal history...
June 2, 2015
Release of TRC Summary Report
Releae of “Honouring the Truth, Reconciling for the Future: Summary of the Final Report of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission”...
March 27, 2014
Expression of Reconciliation
Expression of Reconciliation for the Legacy of the Residential School System Focus is on Education. Commits that all Alberta students will learn about the history and legacy of residential schools, along with the history of First Nations, Metis and Inuit peoples of Canada through a revised K-12 curriculum. Creating a new Assistant Deputy Minister of...
2010
National Aboriginal Youth Suicide Prevention Plan
In Phase I of NAYSPS (2005-2010), funding under the Strategy flowed from Health Canada to the Health Canada Regional Offices, and then from the Regional Offices to communities or Tribal Councils based on workplans or proposals: 200 First Nations and Inuit suicide prevention projects that ranged from traditional on-the-land activities to the development of local...
June 12, 2008
Offical Apology
Formal apology to the Indigenous community for the legacy of the Residential School system....
June 11, 2008
PM Harper Apology
Issued a formal apology for the Residential School system https://www.aadnc-aandc.gc.ca/eng/1100100015644/1100100015649...
July 10, 2005
The Edéhzhíe Protected Area
Funding for the establishment and management of the Indigenous protected area over the first few years will be provided by the Canada Nature Fund. Budget 2018 set aside a $500 million investment to create a $1 billion nature fund in partnership with corporate, not-for-profit, provincial, territorial, and other partners. The Edéhzhíe Protected Area is the...
January 22, 2005
Land Claims and Self-Government Agreement-in-Principle
Negotiations between the Innu Nation of labrador are now under way for a Final Agreement with the governments of Canada and Newfoundand and Labrador https://www.rcaanc-cirnac.gc.ca/DAM/DAM-CIRNAC-RCAANC/DAM-TAG/STAGING/texte-text/ccl_farim_nl_labinnu_caip_1331749872252_eng.pdf...
February 25, 1996
Suprteme Court upholds Treaty from 1752
The Supreme Court upheld the Treaty of 1752 between the Mi’kmaq and the Crown. (Toronto Star Oct. 2, 2019)...
February 25, 1993
Treaty Days
Nova Scotia’s Treaty Days was proclaimed in 1993 to commemorate and celebrate the relationship between the Mi”kmaq and the Crown (Toronto Star (Oct. 2, 2019)...
Specifc Claims Tribunal
The Specific Claims Tribunal, established on October 16, 2008, is part of the Federal Government’s Justice at Last policy and joint initiative with the Assembly of First Nations aimed at accelerating the resolution of specific claims in order to provide justice for First Nations claimants and certainty for government, industry and all Canadians. The term...
Comprehensive Land Claims
Comprehensive land claims deal with the unfinished business of treaty-making in Canada. These claims generally arise in areas of Canada where Aboriginal land rights have not been dealt with by treaty or through other legal means. In these areas, forward-looking agreements (also called “modern treaties”) are negotiated between the Aboriginal group, Canada and the province...
Comprehensive Claims Negotiating Stages
Framework Agreement At this first stage of negotiation, the groups involved agree on issues to be discussed, how they will be discussed, and on deadlines for reaching an Agreement-in-Principle. Agreement-in-Principle The Agreement-in-Principle (AIP) is the second stage in the negotiation process. This is the stage during which the parties negotiate the issues set out in...
Modern Treaties
Modern Treaties and Self-Government Agreements The modern treaty era began in 1973 after the Supreme Court of Canada decision (Calder et al. v. Attorney-General of British Columbia), which recognized Aboriginal rights for the first time. This decision led to the development of the Comprehensive Land Claims Policy and the first modern treaty, the James Bay...
Treaty Land Entitlement
Treaty Land Entitlement claims are intended to settle the land debt owed to those First Nations who did not receive all the land they were entitled to under historical treaties signed by the Crown and First Nations. The fulfillment of Treaty Land Entitlement agreements assists in building partnerships and spurring economic development on reserves and...