First Nations leaders and representatives from various regions in Canada are convening in Winnipeg for the annual general assembly of the Assembly of First Nations (AFN) on Wednesday.
The AFN, a national advocacy organization comprising more than 600 First Nations, will engage in discussions and decision-making over a three-day period. Topics on the agenda include health, education, the environment, human rights, and language and culture, with a focus on issues like First Nations policing, child welfare reform, substance use harm reduction strategies, and artifact repatriation.
During the assembly, a key point of contention is Bill C-5, which falls under the Building Canada Act, granting the federal government authority to expedite major economic development projects deemed nationally significant. While the government asserts that these changes will spur economic growth, many First Nations leaders caution that the streamlined process could circumvent the Crown’s obligation to consult, potentially infringing on Indigenous rights.
AFN National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak emphasized the importance of upholding Indigenous rights and laws to safeguard lands, resources, and waters during her opening address. Likewise, Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs Grand Chief Kyra Wilson stressed the unity needed within the assembly to protect these rights and responsibilities to the land.
In response to concerns raised, Crown-Indigenous Relations Minister Rebecca Alty announced the establishment of a Major Projects Office, intended to streamline project approvals under Bill C-5. The office will incorporate an Indigenous advisory council to ensure Indigenous participation and engagement in major projects.
Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew highlighted the necessity of prioritizing consultation with Indigenous communities before embarking on major nation-building projects. He underscored the importance of ensuring alignment with Indigenous leadership to achieve successful project outcomes.
The assembly also discussed the upcoming federal budget, viewed as an opportunity for the new government to address the infrastructure gap and rebuild trust eroded by Bill C-5. AFN highlighted the substantial investment required to bridge this gap in First Nations communities, emphasizing the potential socioeconomic benefits and job creation that would result.
Originally slated for July, the assembly was postponed due to wildfires that led to evacuations in Manitoba. In his address, Manitoba Regional Chief Willie Moore acknowledged the impact of the wildfires on affected communities and called for solidarity and support for those displaced.