National Chief Election
Assembly of First Nations (AFN) Chiefs-in-Assembly from across Canada made history earlier this month electing RoseAnne Archibald as the first ever woman National Chief. Close to 2000 First Nations leaders, Elders, youth, women and veterans gathered for the 42nd Annual General Assembly held virtually and hosted by Six Nations of the Grand River and Mississaugas of the Credit in Ontario.
National Chief Archibald was elected July 8, 2021 following results of the fifth ballot and after candidate Chief Reginald Bellerose conceded. 406 Chiefs and proxies registered to vote in this AFN election. 350 Chiefs and proxies voted in the fifth ballot. For full election results please visit the AFN website.
A total of seven candidates were nominated for National Chief. RoseAnne Archibald, Reginald Bellerose, Alvin Fiddler, Dr. Cathy Martin, Jodi Calahoo-Stonehouse, Kevin T. Hart and Lee Crowchild and participated in an all-candidates forum the evening of July 6. Polls for voting opened the morning after.
Annual General Assembly
The AGA also provided an opportunity for essential business. Chiefs-in-Assembly passed four resolutions during regular AGA proceedings, including AFN Emergency Resolution “Demanding Justice and Accountability for Missing and Unidentified Children of Residential Schools”. Prior to passing this resolution, Chiefs and delegates observed a moment of silence in honour of all the children who did not return home from Residential Schools.
Other resolutions passed during the AGA include AFN Emergency Resolution “Preliminary Examination of the Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court” and two separate resolutions related to the AFN Charter in respect to Assembly quorum and creating an AFN regional office for PEI.
Final resolutions are currently available on the AFN website. Remaining resolutions will be shared with the AFN Executive Committee at their July 28-29 meeting and in accordance with AFN Rules and Procedures.
On the first day of Assembly, former National Chief Perry Bellegarde was honoured by AFN Elder Mike Mitchell who presented him with an Eagle Feather for his leadership and accomplishments in advancing First Nations priorities.
The first-ever virtual AFN Circle of Trade featured Indigenous businesses, organizations and sponsors. AGA delegates took part in virtual presentations and networking opportunities.
The AFN thanks First Nations leadership, delegates and sponsors for participating in the 2021 virtual AGA. We look forward to continuing the important advocacy work to seek justice for our young ones and all our loved ones in ways that will build a future where our people are respected and our nations thrive.