AMC Supports Northern First Nations Facing Wildfire Crisis
May 28, 2025
Treaty One Territory, Manitoba
AMC Communications
Treaty One Territory, Winnipeg, MB – The Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs (AMC) stands in full solidarity with Pimicikamak Cree Nation, Mathias Colomb Cree Nation, Marcel Colomb First Nation, and other northern First Nations as they face an unprecedented wildfire crisis. Nearly 17,500 First Nations citizens are currently being evacuated or are on notice to evacuate as fast-moving wildfires threaten lives, homes, and essential infrastructure.
In response to the growing crisis, the Provincial Government of Manitoba has declared a state of emergency to address the rapidly deteriorating conditions across the north.
This emergency is unfolding in real-time as wildfires cut off vital access points. Pimicikamak Cree Nation is urgently coordinating evacuations while facing the complete shutdown of its airport and road access due to encroaching fire. Marcel Colomb First Nation and the community of Sherridon have also been evacuated. In Mathias Colomb Cree Nation, evacuations are underway as the community faces severely limited escape routes. Access to its airport has been cut off, and train services have been suspended due to the fire threat.
“This is a time for unity and decisive action,” said Grand Chief Kyra Wilson. “Our Nations are strong and resilient, but they should not have to face these growing climate threats alone. The Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs is committed to working alongside MKO leadership to ensure our people are cared for, protected, and returned home safely when it is possible to do so.”
With temperatures forecast to remain high and fire behaviour expected to intensify in the coming days, the AMC joins MKO in urging additional emergency accommodations and services be made available. Many hotels are now at full capacity, and AMC encourages all partners, including the hospitality industry, to step forward in this time of need.
The AMC remains committed to working alongside MKO, First Nations leadership, and all emergency response teams to ensure the safety, dignity, and well-being of those impacted. We will continue to monitor the situation and advocate for coordinated, trauma-informed emergency responses.
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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.