First Nations Lead the Call for Change on Jordan’s Principle before the 45th Canadian Election
April 27, 2025
Treaty One Territory, Manitoba
AMC Communications
Treaty One Territory, Winnipeg, MB – First Nations leadership, families, youth, Elders and community members from across Manitoba stood together on Friday, April 25, 2025, at the Oodena Circle in defence of Jordan’s Principle and the future of First Nations children. Organized by the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs (AMC) with the support of Southern Chiefs’ Organization (SCO), Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak (MKO), Anisininew Okimawin and Keewatin Tribal Council, made one thing clear: the time for waiting is over.
From start to finish, the rally called for immediate action. Grand Chief Kyra Wilson of AMC addressed the heart of the crisis. “Jordan’s Principle is not a suggestion. It is not a courtesy. It is a commitment, a legal and moral one,” said Grand Chief Wilson. “No child should suffer while governments make unilateral changes to services and supports for families.”
Grand Chief Walter Wastesicoot of Keewatin Tribal Council called out Canada’s role in the growing crisis. “Canada cannot hide from the truth. They created the monster, and now they blame First Nations for their mismanagement of much-needed resources for our children. Racism is alive and well in this country, and we have to call it what it is.”
Grand Chief Garrison Settee of MKO emphasized unity and accountability. “The government has failed our children, but we will not stand and watch this happen,” said Grand Chief Settee. “We will force change, regardless of which government will enter into the national arena next week.”
Grand Chief Jerry Daniels of SCO focused on the work that must continue. “We are here to make an impact that will last a generation, many, many generations…Jordan’s Principle is not a system, it’s not a program. It’s about lives.”
Chief Tréchelle Bunn of Birdtail Sioux Dakota Nation, one of the youngest chiefs in Canada, brought forward the voice of youth and future leadership: “We will never stop fighting for you, we will never stop advocating for you, and we will never stop demanding action.”
The Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs and First Nations leadership made it clear, the promises made through Jordan’s Principle must be kept. No First Nations child should ever be left to wait while governments argue, delay or cut corners.
Leadership also took time to honour Jordan’s Principle workers, who were invited into the centre of Oodena Circle, surrounded by leadership and community. As Red Cree Drum lifted their voices, the workers stood at the heart of the circle, a reminder of the commitment and care carried on the front lines.
“On the eve of the 45th Canadian federal election, Leadership is reminding everyone that voting is another way to defend the rights of our children. Every voice matters. Every vote matters,” said Grand Chief Kyra Wilson. “Manitoba’s First Nations will continue to hold Canada accountable until every First Nations child gets the care they need, when they need it, without exception and without delay.”
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For more information, please contact:
Communications Team
Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs
Email: media@manitobachiefs.com
About 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.