(April 27, 2025 – Unceded Algonquin Territory, Ottawa) – National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak released the following statement today in response to the attack that took place at the Lapu Lapu festival in Vancouver.
“On behalf of the Assembly of First Nations (AFN), we offer our deepest condolences to the families and to the Philippine community in Vancouver as you grieve this unimaginable loss,” said National Chief Woodhouse Nepinak. “Our hearts are broken alongside yours. There are no words that can truly capture the pain caused by such a senseless and tragic act. We condemn, in the strongest terms, the violence that has taken innocent lives and shattered families. There is absolutely nothing — no reason, no excuse — that can ever justify such actions by any individual.”
“In this time of sorrow, we stand with you. We pray for strength, healing, and comfort for all those affected by this tragedy. We also want to extend our gratitude to the police, first responders, and emergency teams who acted swiftly and compassionately to protect, support, and care for the families and the community in this time of grief. Know that you are not alone. We walk with you in mourning, in prayer, and in solidarity. Your pain is felt across Nations, and your loved ones are remembered with honour.”
“We grieve with you. We send our prayers to the Spirit World for those who have journeyed on. We send our love and strength to the families left behind, whose hearts carry the heavy burden of this loss,” concluded National Chief Woodhouse Nepinak.
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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. Follow AFN on X at @AFN_Updates.
For more information, please contact:
Cherish Francis
Press Secretary
Office of the National Chief
(343) 630-1372 (mobile)
[email protected]
Kelly Reid
Senior Communications Officer
Assembly of First Nations
(613) 292-0857 (mobile)
[email protected]