Press Releases

Treaty One Territory, Winnipeg, Manitoba (July 29, 2026) — The Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs (AMC) stands in full solidarity with Chief David Monias, Council, and the citizens of Cross Lake Band of Indians following the filing of a proposed class action lawsuit against Manitoba Hydro, the Government of Canada, and the Government of Manitoba arising from the devastating and prolonged power outage that placed the community at serious risk.

Grand Chief Kyra Wilson said the legal action is a sobering reminder of the unacceptable reality facing far too many First Nations.

“It is profoundly disappointing that First Nations continue to be forced into court simply to secure what should already be guaranteed under the Treaties: the protection of our people, respect for our inherent rights, and the essential infrastructure required to live safely and with dignity. Litigation should never become the price of being heard.”

The Treaties were never agreements of surrender. They established a sacred nation-to-nation relationship founded on mutual obligations, honour, and respect. Canada has a constitutional duty to uphold those promises—not only in words, but through meaningful action that protects the health, safety, and well-being of First Nations.

The circumstances described by Cross Lake are deeply troubling. The alleged failure to respond to repeated warnings about deteriorating electrical infrastructure, followed by a prolonged outage during the height of winter, raises serious questions about the standard of care owed to First Nations communities and whether governments and Crown agencies are fulfilling their legal, constitutional, and Treaty responsibilities.

“Our people should never have to choose between keeping their families warm, protecting their children, or wondering whether life-saving medical equipment will continue to function because governments failed to invest in essential infrastructure,” said Grand Chief Wilson. “When First Nations repeatedly raise concerns that go unaddressed until disaster strikes, it represents a failure of governance, accountability, and the honour of the Crown.”

The AMC recognizes that the matters before the Court remain allegations that will be determined through the judicial process. However, the issues raised extend well beyond one community. They reflect longstanding concerns shared by many First Nations regarding aging infrastructure, inadequate emergency preparedness, and systemic inequities in the delivery of essential public services.

“This action should serve as a wake-up call to all governments,” Grand Chief Wilson added. “Reconciliation cannot coexist with chronic underinvestment in First Nations infrastructure. Treaty implementation requires more than acknowledgements—it demands sustained action that protects lives before tragedy occurs.”

The Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs calls on Canada, Manitoba, and Manitoba Hydro to work collaboratively with First Nations to strengthen critical infrastructure, improve emergency preparedness, and ensure that no First Nation is ever again placed in such a preventable and dangerous situation.

“The path to reconciliation should not run through the courthouse,” Grand Chief Wilson concluded. “As Treaty partners, First Nations should be able to rely on governments to honour their commitments with integrity, foresight, and respect. Until that becomes reality, the pursuit of justice through every available avenue will remain both necessary and justified.”

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.