For 119 years, First Ministers have gathered to discuss the future of our country without First Nations having a seat at the table. This week marked an important milestone as First Nations leaders joined the Prime Minister and Premiers for the First Nations-First Ministers’ Meeting, ensuring our voices and priorities were part of the conversation.

During the Special Chiefs Assembly in 2025, Prime Minister Mark Carney committed to convening a dedicated First Nations-First Ministers’ Meeting in 2026 and stated that First Nations would set the agenda. Over the past six months, I had the privilege of serving on the Assembly of First Nations Advisory Council of Chiefs, helping to shape the agenda and discussions for this historic gathering.

While the meetings were important, the day of ceremony beforehand was the most meaningful part of the experience for me. Coming together to honour our cultures, ancestors, and Nations was a powerful reminder that our traditions, knowledge, and voices must remain at the center of decisions that affect our future.

The agenda focused on priorities that matter deeply to First Nations, including the implementation of Section 35 rights, investing in a skilled First Nations workforce, building prosperity through economic reconciliation, improving health outcomes, and strengthening policing and public safety. These discussions were especially important given the potential impacts of Bills C-39, C-5, and S-2 on First Nations rights, governance, economic participation, and decision-making. Ensuring First Nations set the agenda created an opportunity to bring our concerns and priorities directly to national leaders.

There were also important conversations about the future of First Nations governance and the need to move beyond the Indian Act. Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew’s comments on this issue highlighted the importance of continuing the work toward greater self-determination and ensuring First Nations have the authority to make decisions for our own people and communities.

I am proud to have represented Qalipu First Nation at this historic gathering. While there is much work ahead, this meeting was an important step forward. Meaningful change will require continued dialogue, strong partnerships, and action on the priorities identified by First Nations. I am encouraged by the progress made and look forward to seeing these conversations translate into real outcomes for our people and our communities.