Press Releases

Treaty One Territory, Winnipeg, Manitoba (July 17, 2026) — The Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs (AMC) Grand Chief Kyra Wilson is calling on First Nations, Manitobans, governments, businesses, and the public to stand in solidarity with Namaygoosisagagun First Nation, Whitesand First Nation, Kiashke Zaaging Anishinaabek, Animbiigoo Zaagi’igan Anishinaabek, and all First Nations currently affected by or evacuating because of the ongoing northern Ontario wildfires.

AMC emphasizes that the sacred principles of mutual aid, kinship, and Nation-to-Nation solidarity transcend all provincial boundaries during times of crisis.

“Our hearts are with the families of Namaygoosisagagun First Nation, Whitesand First Nation, Kiashke Zaaging Anishinaabek, Animbiigoo Zaagi’igan Anishinaabek, and every First Nation whose citizens have been displaced or whose communities have been threatened by these devastating wildfires,” said AMC Grand Chief Kyra Wilson. “First Nations have always cared for one another. When one of our sister Nations suffers unimaginable loss, we all have a responsibility to respond. Borders drawn by governments do not define our relationships—we do. Today, we stand beside these Nations, and we call upon Manitobans to do the same.”

Grand Chief Wilson also echoed concerns raised during the recent Assembly of First Nations Annual General Assembly, and the AMC supports the unanimous emergency resolution adopted at the Assembly of First Nations Annual General Assembly calling on the Government of Canada to provide immediate emergency and financial support to First Nations devastated by the northern Ontario wildfires. The resolution underscores the urgent need for a coordinated, First Nations-led response and renewed investments to address longstanding gaps in emergency management, evacuation planning, and disaster recovery. The AMC joins First Nations across Canada in urging Canada to act without delay and ensure all First Nations affected by the wildfires receive the support they need to recover and rebuild.

How You Can Help

The AMC encourages individuals, businesses, organizations, and First Nations across Manitoba to support the relief efforts being coordinated by the Anishinabek Nation.

Financial Donations

Monetary donations are urgently needed to provide emergency transportation, temporary accommodations, food, clothing, and other essential supports for displaced families.

Donations can be made by:

• Interac e-Transfer: an7gc@anishinabek.ca
• Credit Card: Through PayPal or CanadaHelps by visiting https://an7gc.ca/donate/

Priority Supplies

The following new items are urgently needed:

• Clothing for infants, children, adults, and Elders
• Baby formula, diapers, wipes, strollers, and other infant necessities
• New, unopened personal hygiene products and toiletries
• Non-perishable food and other essential household supplies

AMC stands ready to support the relief efforts being coordinated by the Nishnawbe Aski Nation and the Anishinabek Nation as they work together to support First Nations affected by the northern Ontario wildfires, and calls upon governments, organizations, businesses, and individuals to demonstrate the spirit of solidarity that has always defined First Nations in times of hardship.

“When one Nation hurts, we all feel that hurt,” said Grand Chief Wilson. “Our strength has always come from standing together. Now is the time to show these Nations that they are not alone.”

For more information, please contact:
Communications Team
Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs
Email: media@manitobachiefs.com

About the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs The Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs (AMC) was formed in 1988 by the Chiefs in Manitoba to advocate on issues that commonly affect First Nations in Manitoba. AMC is the authorized representative of all 63 First Nations in Manitoba, representing more than 172,000 First Nations citizens. AMC represents the diversity of Anishinaabe, Nehetho/Ininew, Anisininew, Denesuline, and Dakota Oyate peoples