Assembly of First Nations: An Open Letter from National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak to President Donald J. Trump
Assembly of First NationsAFN is an advocacy organization, taking direction and fulfilling mandates as directed by First Nations-in-Assembly through resolutions. |
An Open Letter from National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak to President Donald J. Trump Tuesday 21 January 2025 10:08 PM UTC+00 | Tags: press-release January 21, 2025 Dear President Donald J. Trump, As National Chief of the Assembly of First Nations (AFN), I advocate on behalf of First Nations individuals and communities across Canada on matters of national and international importance. I want to congratulate you on beginning your new term as the 47th President of the United States (U.S.) and express my hope that we can work together to build a respectful and constructive relationship between the United States and First Nations across Turtle Island (North America). This land has been home to sovereign Nations since time immemorial, with inherent rights to our lands, waters, and resources that predate colonial systems. While we do not seek permission to uphold our responsibilities to the land and our people, we welcome partnerships rooted in mutual respect. True leadership honours all Nations equally, and we will continue to stand strong for our people, our rights, and our future. Many of our Nations have territories on both sides of the 49th parallel, crossing the U.S.-Canada border. Decisions made in Washington or Ottawa directly affect Indigenous Peoples on both sides of the line, and yet, our voices are rarely heard. This must change. Our inherent and sovereign rights must be respected and upheld. We look forward to working with your administration, the Government of Canada, and Native Americans on border security and mobility for our peoples. Trade is an area where First Nations must also be meaningfully included. Our Nations have engaged in trade and economic relationships for thousands of years. Tariffs or trade decisions between the U.S. and Canada significantly affect the livelihoods of our Nations and families. The United States-Canada-Mexico Agreement (USMCA), which you negotiated, is the first trade agreement to protect the rights and include trade promotion provisions for Indigenous Peoples in North America. However, USMCA can and should be strengthened to support Indigenous-to-Indigenous trade between our Nations. First Nations across Turtle Island are ready to work with your administration to build a stronger, more respectful relationship. I look forward to discussing a path forward, particularly regarding meaningful consultation with First Nations and Indigenous Nations along the border, as we renew our relationship as equal partners and neighbours. Megwetch, National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak Tags:
|
0 comments