(May 8, 2025 – Unceded Algonquin Territory, Ottawa) – National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak issued the following statement today on the election of Pope Leo XIV, Cardinal Robert Prevost, the first American Pope in history.
“On behalf of the Assembly of First Nations (AFN), I extend warm congratulations to His Holiness Pope Leo XIV,” said National Chief Woodhouse Nepinak. “We welcome his message of peace and bridge building among all people.”
“I invite His Holiness to continue the important work of reconciliation with Indigenous peoples, especially those who suffered the harms of Residential Schools. We must continue dialogue on many issues including repatriation of sacred First Nations items housed in the Vatican. I encourage His Holiness to make reconciliation a top priority and to engage with our people and communities to continue healing for all.”
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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
National Chief’s Office
(343) 630-1372 (mobile)
[email protected]
Kelly Reid
Senior Communications Officer
Assembly of First Nations
(613) 292-0857 (mobile)
[email protected]