Assembly of First Nations: AFN National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak, Regional Chief Kluane Adamek, and Dene National Chief and Regional Chief George Mackenzie Call on Prime Minister Justin Trudeau t

AFN National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak, Regional Chief Kluane Adamek, and Dene National Chief and Regional Chief George Mackenzie Call on Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to Include First Nations in National Dialogues on Arctic Sovereignty

(December 9, 2024 – Unceded Algonquin Territory, Ottawa, Ontario) — The Assembly of First Nations (AFN) responded to the release of Canada's Arctic Foreign Policy document, recently updated with additional points on Indigenous sovereignty, meaningful consultation and the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (UNDA).

"As the Prime Minister and Canadian Premiers convene to discuss pivotal issues such as Arctic sovereignty, national security, and cross-border trade, it is crucial to acknowledge that the future of Canada’s relations with the United States and the transitions facing our economy cannot be effectively addressed without the active involvement of First Nations," said National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak. "Our lands are not just geographical entities; they are central to Canada's wealth in critical minerals and energy resources that are vital for both domestic prosperity and international trade. As stewards of these lands, First Nations hold key insights and traditional knowledge that are indispensable for sustainable and secure development, especially in sensitive regions like the Arctic."

“The Arctic Foreign Policy is a positive step forward, emphasizing First Nations participation in governance and recognizing the vital role of Traditional Knowledge in environmental protection and security. A rights-based approach is the right approach—one that Yukon First Nations continue to champion,” says Yukon Regional Chief Kluane Adamek.

“It is important to acknowledge the ongoing rhetoric-reality gap. While the policy emphasizes Indigenous inclusion, meaningful participation requires more than acknowledgment—it demands actionable commitments, equitable funding, and mechanisms that empower First Nations to lead and influence decision-making processes at all levels. Safeguarding national security and upholding First Nations sovereignty are not mutually exclusive. We will continue to advocate for collaborative approaches that bridge this gap, respect and elevate First Nation rights, and ensure the well-being of our peoples while contributing to global security goals," Regional Chief Ademek concluded.

"Strong First Nations leadership is essential to bridging the gaps in Canada's Arctic policies," said Dene National Chief and Northwest Territories Regional Chief George Mackenzie. "While the updated Arctic Foreign Policy document makes strides to recognize Indigeneity, we must now see work done to address the impacts of defence and resource extraction policies on our lands, waters, and territories. I join National Chief Woodhouse Nepinak and Regional Chief Adamak in urging Canada to respect the rights of self-governing nations and ensure the protection of First Nations' lands, rights, and traditional knowledge while contributing to Arctic stability."

―30―

The Assembly of First Nations (AFN) is a national advocacy organization that works to advance the collective aspirations of First Nations individuals and communities across Canada on matters of national or international nature and concern. 

For more information, please contact:

Kelly Reid
Senior Communications Officer
Assembly of First Nations
(613) 292-0857 (mobile)
kreid@afn.ca

Jamie Monastyrski
Press Secretary
Office of the National Chief
(613) 612-7229 (mobile)
jamiem@afn.ca

• press-release