Chiefs of Ontario Stand in Solidarity with Nishnawbe Aski Nation, Demanding Urgent Action from Treaty Partners on Community Safety Crisis

(Toronto, Ont. — October 10, 2025) The Chiefs of Ontario stand in full support of the Nishnawbe Aski Nation (NAN) as they declare a State of Emergency following recent tragic events in Ginoogaming First Nation. The situation underscores the escalating crisis of organized crime and illegal drug trafficking that is devastating First Nations communities.

The recent incident in Ginoogaming First Nation, which resulted in a community-wide lockdown, is a stark and painful reminder of the daily realities and dangers our communities face. The Chiefs of Ontario fully support NAN’s call for immediate and decisive action from our treaty partners, the governments of Canada and Ontario, to address this public safety emergency.

The well-being of our communities is paramount. For too long, First Nations have been forced to confront the devastating impacts of organized crime with inadequate resources. First Nation police services, such as the Nishnawbe Aski Police Service (NAPS), are on the front lines of this crisis but are severely under-resourced to protect community borders and ensure the safety of our members. This systemic failure must be rectified.

The Chiefs of Ontario call upon Canada and Ontario to come to the table immediately for difficult but necessary conversations. We require collaborative solutions to keep our communities safe, and this begins with recognizing and upholding their treaty responsibilities.

“Our communities will take the necessary steps to protect their people, including banning individuals who threaten their safety and way of life,” stated Ontario Regional Chief Benedict.”But we cannot do this alone. Ontario and Canada must step up and provide the support we have long been requesting. This is a matter of jurisdiction and fundamental safety. They need to support our communities’ efforts to build healthy, thriving communities by formally acknowledging our inherent jurisdiction and providing sustainable resources.”

The time for studies and delays is over. The Chiefs of Ontario demand that the federal and provincial governments meet with First Nations leadership to implement tangible, community-led solutions that will protect our people from violence and the flow of illegal drugs. The safety and security of First Nations citizens deserve the same priority and response as any other community in Canada.

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The Chiefs of Ontario supports all First Nations in Ontario as they assert their sovereignty, jurisdiction, and their chosen expression of nationhood. Follow Chiefs of Ontario on Facebook, X, Instagram, or LinkedIn @ChiefsOfOntario

Media Contact:

Isak Vaillancourt
Communications Manager
Chiefs of Ontario
Telephone: 416-819-8184
Email: isak.vaillancourt@coo.org

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