(June 4, 2025 – Unceded Algonquin Territory, Ottawa) – National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak responded today to controversial remarks by Minister of Justice Sean Fraser made yesterday, in which the Minister rejected the notion that Indigenous peoples hold any “veto” in regards to land and resources matters.
The National Chief noted she has had positive meetings with Prime Minister Mark Carney in the early days of the new government but added, “It is critical that all Ministers give themselves an opportunity to build their capacity on the international status and rights of First Nations. Doing that responsibly necessarily requires structured dialogue with First Nations to inform the government’s understanding.”
She also said, “The Constitution and international law emphasize that First Nations perspectives of our rights are an essential part of any legal determination of what they are. Blanket statements on the content of our right to self-determination are not helpful when First Nations have not yet had an opportunity to discuss key elements of it such as the legal standard of free, prior, and informed consent and permanent sovereignty. First Nations are determined to advance understanding and respect of our rights under the Constitution and international law.”
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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]
Genna Benson
Director of Communications
Assembly of First Nations
[email protected]
604-340-3117 (mobile)