AMC prepares Manitoba First Nations priorities for First Nations–First Ministers’ Meeting in Ottawa
October 23, 2026
Treaty One Territory, Manitoba
Jesse Nobess
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 23, 2026
TREATY ONE TERRITORY — The Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs (AMC) is bringing the priorities of its 63 Member First Nations to the First Nations–First Ministers’ Meeting in Ottawa on October 25–26. AMC’s priorities are guided by its Executive Council of Chiefs (ECC) and the mandates of the Chiefs-in-Assembly.
At its October 6 meeting, the ECC appointed Grand Chief Kyra Wilson as AMC’s representative. The ECC also selected the participation of Chief Tréchelle Bunn of Birdtail Sioux First Nation, Chief David Crate of Fisher River Cree Nation, Chief David Monias of Pimicikamak Cree Nation, Chief Dehlia Hart of Marcel Colomb First Nation, Chief Jason Daniels of Swan Lake First Nation and Chief Jerry Knott of Wasagamack First Nation.
The Chiefs-in-Assembly have been clear: Treaty rights, inherent rights and the right to self-determination are not negotiable. The Crown’s obligations to uphold these rights bind the federal and provincial governments alike, and every First Minister at this meeting carries that responsibility. AMC will press for action on First Nations rights and jurisdiction, resource wealth sharing and economic sovereignty. No decision affecting First Nations in Manitoba should be made without their free, prior and informed consent.
“Our Treaties and our alliances with the Crown are agreements between Nations. They are not historical arrangements to be set aside when they become inconvenient,” said Grand Chief Wilson. “Our sovereignty and our inherent right to govern ourselves did not come from any government, and no government can take them away. Our Chiefs are going to this meeting with a clear message: the time for recognition in words alone is over. “We expect the First Ministers to come prepared to uphold their commitments, respect our jurisdiction, inherent rights and Treaty rights. We’re Nations with inherent authority to govern ourselves. We will not accept a relationship defined by promises without action. We expect to be treated as equal partners, and we expect governments to work with us.’
See Press Conference Details below.
The Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs will hold a press conference prior to the First Ministers’ meeting.
Date: Saturday, October 24, 2026
Time: 11:00 a.m.
Location: Ottawa Marriott Hotel
Address: 100 Kent Street, Ottawa, Ontario
Room: Summit Room
Members of the media are invited to attend
– 30 –
About the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs
The Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs (AMC) advocates on behalf of 63 First Nations in Manitoba, advancing and protecting First Nations Treaty and inherent rights, jurisdiction, and collective interests. The AMC works to ensure First Nations voices are heard and respected in decisions affecting their Nations, lands, and future generations.
Media Contact:
Communications Department
Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs
Email: Media@ManitobaChiefs.com
Website: www.manitobachiefs.com