Raising Profile of First Nations Issues Key for Ontario Regional Chief

THUNDER BAY – Ontario Regional Chief Isadore Day in his first in-depth interview with NetNewsLedger since being elected Regional Chief for Ontario discusses the important issues facing Ontario, and Canadian First Nations. Chief Day has kept his promise to be active, especially in the North. He has been active in the North visiting communities and listening to people.

Chief Day has been listening to people, and to Chiefs and Councils across the province, as well as meeting with political leaders, and attending Assemblies to set forward in a plan of action that will move First Nations issues higher on the priority list for governments.

The leaders of the Green Party, the Liberals and the New Democrats have engaged with the First Nations on a number of levels. Chief Day states that “The Conservatives have not been there, and are more focused on banking cheques”.

Federal Election – Efforts Ongoing on Political Front

Heading into the fall, the Ontario Regional Chiefs are looking to advance political efforts on the federal side and raise awareness of the issues facing First Nations.

There is a plan of action being formed on the issue of Murdered and Missing Indigenous Women. Chief Day states that support is growing with Premiers, and with the federal leaders of the Green Party, Liberal Party and New Democrats for a national inquiry.

However the Ontario Regional Chief also points to the efforts in Ontario with Premier Wynne who is working toward a Round Table in 2016. Chief Day states however that come September there is action happening on the MMIW issue to start the process.

The Ontario Regional Chief also raises the issue of the United Nations Declaration on human rights and Indigenous People, and is seeking that Canada adopt that resolution.