AMC Responds to the Resignation of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau
January 6, 2025
Treaty One Territory, Manitoba
AMC Communications
Treaty One Territory, Winnipeg – The Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs (AMC) acknowledges Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s decision to resign following the selection of a new Liberal Party leader. We thank him for his years of service, his commitment to Canada, and his efforts to address First Nations concerns, including his commitment to reconciliation and advancing First Nations rights.
While progress has been made, significant challenges remain. First Nations continue to face systemic inequities, and bold, decisive action is needed to ensure meaningful change.
“We commend Prime Minister Trudeau for his commitment to reconciliation and fostering dialogue with First Nations,” said Acting Grand Chief Betsy Kennedy. “However, we urge the next leader to prioritize transformative change and address the critical issues still affecting our communities.”
As the Liberal Party selects its next leader, AMC calls on all political leaders to prioritize:
- Equitable funding for essential services such as healthcare, education, and housing;
- Implementation of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action and the MMIWG Calls for Justice;
- Upholding Treaty rights; and
- Building respectful, accountable partnerships with First Nations.
The announced parliamentary break until March 2025 raises concerns about delays in addressing urgent First Nations issues. We urge the federal government to ensure uninterrupted support and services during this transition. Funding and Ministerial/departmental support should continue during these next 2.5 months.
“This leadership transition is a pivotal moment,” continued Acting Grand Chief Kennedy. “First Nations have long been stewards of this land and champions for justice. We look forward to working with the next Liberal Party Leader and all elected officials from the various political parties to build a future grounded in reconciliation, equity, and shared prosperity.”
AMC remains committed to holding Canada’s leaders accountable and ensuring that promises made to First Nations are upheld.
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For more information, please contact:
Communications Team
Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs
Email: media@manitobachiefs.com
About the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs
The AMC was formed in 1988 by the Chiefs in Manitoba to advocate on issues that commonly affect First Nations in Manitoba. AMC is an authorized representative of all 63 First Nations in Manitoba with a total of more than 172,000 First Nations citizens in the province, accounting for approximately 12 percent of the provincial population. AMC represents a diversity of Anishinaabe, Nehetho / Ininew, Anisininew, Denesuline, and Dakota Oyate peoples.