(March 23, 2025 – Unceded Algonquin Territory, Ottawa) – In response to the calling of a federal election for April 28, 2025, Assembly of First Nations (AFN) National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak called on all federal parties to work with First Nations across the country as they develop platforms.
The National Chief noted that, “The well-being, and the future, of First Nations and Canada are intertwined. We must work together and support one another, as we navigate a rapidly changing global landscape. I call on every federal party to include First Nations priorities in their platform. The decisions the next government and the next Parliament will make will be critical for First Nations and everyone who shares these lands,” said National Chief Woodhouse Nepinak.
Later this week, the AFN will release its 2025 Federal Election Priorities document and hopes to discuss it with each federal party leader.
“First Nations are an integral part of the economic fabric of this country. Canada and First Nations can prosper together if we work together. When there are national discussions about trade relations, pipelines, national energy corridors, or becoming an energy superpower, First Nations must be at the table. Working together for our mutual benefit and support is the essence of the special relationship between First Nations and the Crown.”
“I encourage all candidates and party leaders to meet directly with First Nations leadership to hear our perspectives firsthand,” National Chief Woodhouse Nepinak added. “In dozens of ridings, First Nation voters could determine the outcome. In 2021, our vote exceeded the margin of victory in 2021. We lift up First Nations candidates running for office and pray for the safety and good health of everyone as they travel across the country.”
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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.
For more information, please contact:
Cherish Francis
Press Secretary
Office of the National Chief
(343) 630-1372 (mobile)
cfrancis@afn.ca
Genna Benson
Director of Communications
Assembly of First Nations
604-340-3117 (mobile)
gbenson@afn.ca