A ‘reset’ or ‘one and done’? First Nations and first ministers set to hold historic meeting
First Nations leaders and federal ministers are holding a historic, closed-door meeting in Ottawa to discuss priorities and community support. While some premiers are absent and Indigenous leaders express skepticism about the agenda, the government aims to establish a new path forward for the relationship.
Why it matters
This meeting represents the first high-level gathering dedicated to First Nations priorities in 120 years, signaling a potential shift in federal-Indigenous relations.
Not all 13 premiers are attending the one-day political conference in Ottawa. Premiers from Alberta, British Columbia and Quebec are expected to be absent.
Some First Nations chiefs say they're concerned about how the Privy Council Office is organizing the closed-door meeting, which won't be livestreamed to their community members.
"I'm doubtful that it will meet our expectations," said Nishnawbe Aski Nation Grand Chief Alvin Fiddler.
"It seems to me that Canada is the one that's driving the agenda."
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But with this being the first-ever first ministers' meeting dedicated to First Nations and their priorities since the high-level gatherings started 120 years ago, there is also hope tangible progress can be made even if the leaders attending have only a few hours together.
Also covering this story
One other newsroom covered this event. We read that version too.
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