(June 29, 2026 – Unceded Algonquin Territory, Ottawa) – National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak spoke out today in response to reported remarks made during a recent Niagara Falls council meeting in which speakers indicated First Nations evacuees negatively affect tourism because they’re seen as “homeless” people and they are “too much at one time” for the city.
“I am deeply disappointed by these remarks from Mayor Jim Diodati and other speakers in the council meeting,” said National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak. “The First Nations citizens in Niagara Falls are evacuees from Kashechewan First Nation who have been forced from their homes for six months now. They deserve care and compassion. This evacuation is already traumatizing, and many now feel unwelcome in the city that was supposed to be a refuge. The real issue here is the unacceptable infrastructure gap facing too many First Nations. Decades of underfunding and neglect by the federal government are leaving our people and communities vulnerable. The mayor, council and all city staff should be joining us in our call to close this gap. I stand with Kashechewan First Nation Chief Hosea Wesley and Nishnawbe Aski Nation Grand Chief Alvin Fiddler in asking for empathy and support from the leadership of Niagara Falls. The Mayor should reach out to the Chief, Grand Chief and evacuees in an effort to repair the relationship and build understanding.”
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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.
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Cherish Francis
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