Ontario Nations find themselves losing ground with AFN processes
February 8, 2021
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
The Chiefs of Ontario (COO) began laying the groundwork at its virtual Special Chiefs Assembly Feb. 3 and Feb. 4 to distinguish themselves from some approaches taken by the Assembly of First Nations.
Some of the most telling work comes in the yet-to-be-finalized restructuring of the COO.
“There are areas of the AFN charter renewal work that impact our regional offices and national relationships,” said Rocky Bay First Nation Chief Melvin Hardy, who chairs the restructuring committee.
“Such as a need to clarify the regional chiefs’ responsibility to the AFN and accountability to First Nations that elect them in their respective regions. We need to articulate these relationships and accountabilities in the COO governing documents.”
Chiefs of Ontario: Inmates returning home, workers coming onto reserve pose COVID 19 spread concerns, say chiefs
February 5, 2021
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Delegates at the Chiefs of Ontario’s virtual Special Chiefs Assembly Feb. 3 voiced concerns over testing and the need to inoculate a wider range of people as the COVID-19 vaccination program rolls out.
While Elders rightfully remain a priority, chiefs said attention needed to be paid to workers coming on reserve to do vital work, personal health workers moving from home-to-home caring for Elders and community members, released inmates returning to their communities, and women living in the protection of shelters.