We all have a sacred responsibility to take care of and make an alliance
with Mother Earth.
Press Releases
Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs Declares Headdress Confiscation Inexcusable
Treaty One Territory, Manitoba – Grand Chief Cathy Merrick and the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs (AMC) express an urgent need for comprehensive cultural sensitivity training and awareness within the airline…
About Us
The Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs was created in 1988 by First Nations in Manitoba to coordinate political action and technical work on common issues. It is a product of political and social developments that have been underway for decades.
Faced with the domination and assimilation policies of Canada’s Department of Indian Affairs, First Nations have long recognized their common interests and the strength to be found in solidarity.
Connect With Us
@AMCMBCHIEFS
@AMCMBCHIEFS
@ASSEMBLYMBCHIEFS
Congratulations to the Treaty One Nations as they have officially begun construction for the soon-to-be Naawi Oodena Business Park located on Kenaston Blvd!!
“Through perseverance and partnership, we’ve transformed two decades of challenges into opportunities for our Nations and the Winnipeg community as a whole,” stated T1DC President and Sagkeeng First Nation Chief EJ Fontaine. “This milestone isn’t just about buildings; it is a testament to the commitment of the Treaty One Nations and our allies to build towards a brighter future for all. This is the beginning of a new chapter for Nations across Turtle Island.” >> treaty1.ca/block-a-construction-commences/
We look forward to seeing this vision come to life as Canada’s largest Urban Reserve becomes a reality.
So very very happy for you all!
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
APRIL 26, 2024
Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs Declares Headdress Confiscation Inexcusable
Treaty One Territory, Manitoba – Grand Chief Cathy Merrick and the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs (AMC) express an urgent need for comprehensive cultural sensitivity training and awareness within the airline industry after Assembly of First Nations (AFN) National Chief Cindy Woodhouse-Nepinak’s headdress was confiscated on an Air Canada flight this week.
“Systemic discrimination reveals itself in situations like this,” said AMC Grand Chief Cathy Merrick, “when our sacred items are treated as if they’re just objects. What happened to National Chief Woodhouse-Nepinak is a shameful demonstration of how misinformed Canadians are about First Nations’ sacred cultural items and traditions.”
National Chief Woodhouse-Nepinak was honoured with the headdress by Elder Leonard Weasel Traveller and Chief Troy Knowlton of the Piikani Nation and Blackfoot Confederacy in Alberta on Treaty Seven Territory during a headdress transfer in January of this year.
“In our culture,” Grand Chief Cathy Merrick continued, “the transfer of the headdress stands as one of the highest honours within First Nations traditions in acknowledging our Leadership. It is important that people understand the honour of receiving such a gift and what that means – whether they are First Nations or not – and that they respect our ways as a people.”
First Nations-led cultural sensitivity training and awareness is essential for fostering understanding and respect. However, Grand Chief Merrick also underscores the crucial need for accountability, urging individuals and industries to take ownership of the education of their employees at every level.
“There are no excuses left. We’re in 2024, where information is at our fingertips—anyone can Google, visit a library, or pick up a book. First Nations are the original people of Turtle Island, and it’s time that Canadians and industry acknowledge their complicity in perpetuating systemic racism and colonial violence.”
Grand Chief Merrick says the AMC is open to working with all airlines to administer cultural training and awareness. Additionally, she hopes this situation serves as a wake-up call to the industry to prioritize cultural competence and sensitivity in their operations. It’s essential for companies to recognize and respect the diverse backgrounds and needs of their customers, especially in sectors like air travel where encounters between cultures are frequent.
Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs Declares Headdress Confiscation Inexcusable
manitobachiefs.com
Treaty One Territory, Manitoba – Grand Chief Cathy Merrick and the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs (AMC) express an urgent need for comprehensive cultural sensitivity training and awareness within the…While they are add can they acquire about the 4th stage of municipalities for our reservations that noone ask us no cheif or cheifs can trade our land and out treaty
She should wear a crown as a woman not a headress men wear those women wear crowns as for being compensated creator knows why this happened nothing happens without a reason!!
She should be worried about what our people goes thru not just stupid headdress .There is crisis with our people now going to make sure her headdress will be honoured on a plane. LoL
I think what happened to those kids from Elm Creek is inexcusable as well. Can you address that.
DO they?confiscate Turbins
AIR Canada has always been racist Aiirline on Indians. They hauled Indians in Ottawa after itcwS full be ausecwhitw colonials should occupy the seats wherevIndian Chiefs were sitting
The people who get hired have ZERO knowledge of Indigenous Ppls here. It's 2024 Who doesn't know?
We represent and advocate for 62 First Nations across Manitoba.
Click on the map for a detailed view showing the details of our member nations!
More Info