AMC KTC MKO Encourage First Nations Voters to Rock the Vote!
April 16, 2025
Treaty One Territory, Manitoba
AMC Communications
Treaty Five Territory, Thompson – In a show of unity the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs (AMC), Keewatin Tribal Council (KTC), and Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak (MKO) hosted a federal candidate forum last night in the heart of Churchill-Keewatinook Aski, Thompson, Manitoba. Nations in the North continue to lead with generosity, offering hospitality and holding space for truth. But from unsafe roads and aging infrastructure to an ongoing regional state of emergency, the North is not being met with the commitment it deserves. First Nations in this riding have been sounding the alarm for decades.
“It should not take chaos in another country for Canada to finally do what is right for the First Peoples of this land. It is time to deconstruct the colonial braid – the Doctrine of Discovery, Canada’s Constitution, and the Indian Act – and replace it with a new path forward. One grounded in truth, autonomy, and real reconciliation. On April 28, exercise your right to vote. Vote for inclusion. Vote for action. Vote for justice,” said KTC Grand Chief Walter Wastesicoot.
“Churchill–Keewatinook Aski is not just a riding—it is home to many of our Nations, our languages, and our lands. The people here are not a minority voice; we are the voice. This forum was about more than politics—it’s about accountability. It’s about making sure those who seek to represent us understand the daily realities our nations face and the responsibility they carry if elected. Our Nations deserve Members of Parliament who will work with us, respect our laws, and honour the direction of our leadership—not only during an election, but every single day they hold office,” said AMC Grand Chief Kyra Wilson.
MKO Grand Chief Garrison Settee emphasized the historical context of voting for First Nations people.
“Voting isn’t just a right—it’s a responsibility rooted in the resilience of our ancestors. Historically, First Nations people were banned from voting without giving up Status and Treaty Rights until 1960. Now it’s our turn to honour those who came before us by standing up, speaking out, and voting for a future grounded in truth, strength, and sovereignty,” said MKO Grand Chief Garrison Settee.
Churchill–Keewatinook Aski has the highest proportion of First Nations voters in the country. The power of the vote in this region can shape decisions that directly affect First Nations children, families and Nations.
We urge First Nations voters to continue the momentum by participating in advance voting or casting their ballots on election day, or during advanced voting which begins Friday, April 18 – 21.
The event was livestreamed so citizens across the riding could take part. Learn more about First Nations priorities in Manitoba at www.manitobachiefs.com.
Rock the Vote!
For more information, please contact:
Communications Team
Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs
Email: media@manitobachiefs.com