WINNIPEG — First Nations leaders convened in Winnipeg on Wednesday for their annual summer gathering, emphasizing the necessity of including Indigenous voices in major infrastructure projects across Canada. The Assembly of First Nations (AFN) warned that progress cannot occur without the participation of First Nations. "We can all agree on this, that progress cannot come at the cost of our rights, our treaties or our responsibilities to the land," said Grand Chief Kyra Wilson of the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs.

Wilson highlighted the historical exclusion of First Nations from decision-making processes, stating, "Anything that we do in this country will not be at the expense of our lands, our waters and our resources. For generations, decisions have been made without us, while the impacts fall on our nations and our families."

The assembly is particularly focused on the federal government's recent major projects legislation, which allows the cabinet to expedite projects deemed in the national interest. This legislation has faced significant opposition from some First Nations leaders and community members who are concerned it may violate their inherent treaty rights.

National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak addressed the assembly, noting the importance of standing firm against provincial initiatives that also aim to fast-track projects. She commended chiefs from British Columbia, Quebec, and Alberta for their efforts to protect their rights and territories. "Alberta chiefs were the first earlier this year to stand up to the premier's threat to separate from Canada, as if she had land to take," Woodhouse Nepinak remarked.

Prime Minister Mark Carney previously held summits with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis leaders regarding the federal bill. Following those meetings, First Nations chiefs expressed mixed feelings about the path forward. Woodhouse Nepinak indicated that the assembly would hear diverse opinions from leaders, with some supporting the push for major projects while others remain hesitant or lack sufficient information.

One draft resolution under consideration calls for the inclusion of First Nations infrastructure projects in the national agenda. The AFN has also submitted a pre-budget request to the federal government for $800 million over the next two years to facilitate a review of national interest projects by First Nations.

In addition to infrastructure discussions, the assembly will address various topics over the three-day event, including child welfare reform, the repatriation of artifacts, policing, the toxic drug crisis, and closing the infrastructure gap faced by First Nations.

The AFN reported that 311 chiefs and proxies registered for the meeting, with 34 participating virtually. Crown-Indigenous Relations Minister Rebecca Alty spoke to the assembly, aiming to alleviate concerns regarding the federal legislation. She stated that a robust economy is essential for funding social priorities such as hospitals, schools, and roads.

"My goal as minister of Crown-Indigenous relations, and the goal of our government, is to build resilient economies in true partnership with First Nations," Alty said. She acknowledged the progress made but emphasized the need for continued work towards reconciliation.

Concerns about potential cuts to federal funding were also raised, as Carney has instructed his ministers to identify savings within their budgets. When asked about these cuts, Carney reiterated the importance of strengthening the economy to ensure program funding. He announced that the Indigenous Advisory Council, which will collaborate with the new federal Major Projects Office, will be revealed next week. Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew is scheduled to address the assembly later today.