About Us

The Chiefs of Ontario is a political forum and secretariat for collective decision-making, action, and advocacy for the 133 First Nations communities located within the boundaries of the province of Ontario. Guided by the Chiefs in Assembly, we uphold self-determination efforts of the Anishinaabek, Mushkegowuk, Onkwehonwe, and Lenape Peoples in protecting and exercising their inherent and Treaty rights.  

Keeping in mind the wisdom of our Elders, and the future for our youth, we continue to create the path forward in building our Nations as strong, healthy Peoples respectful of ourselves, each other, and all creation.

The activities of the Chiefs of Ontario are mandated through and guided by:
  • Resolutions passed by the Chiefs in Assembly of the 133 First Nations in Ontario
  • The Political Confederacy made up of the Grand Chiefs of Political Territorial Organizations (PTOs) and Independent First Nations
  • The elected Regional Chief for the Chiefs of Ontario.
Our staffing capacity is mostly dedicated to pushing for First Nation interests, engaging with federal and provincial governments to make sure that First Nation priorities are heard and implemented through legislation, policy, and program updates. The time it takes to enact new legislation, and the “behind the scenes” processes that underlie them, can make it appear that there is not much happening on your behalf at Chiefs of Ontario. We have heard from the Ontario chiefs that communication has not always been adequate.

That is why we have developed this blog to keep you abreast of the legislation, programs, and strategies that impact First Nations across Ontario.

We have populated this blog with federal and provincial legislation that impacts First Nation communities, and outlined the key strategies and programs that Ontario has initiated since releasing The Journey Together in response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission Calls to Action. When the house is in session, we will be publishing regular updates on legislation as it passes through the House.