Regional Chief Joanna Bernard of New Brunswick, has been appointed as the interim National Chief of the Assembly of First Nations (AFN).
The decision was made during a gathering of the AFN Executive Committee on June 28.
Interim National Chief Joanna Bernard stated in an AFN press-release, “I am honored to be selected as the interim National Chief. I look forward to working with the Executive Committee to further AFN’s mission until December, when First Nations Chiefs will once again have the opportunity to elect their next National Chief.”
During her term, Bernard emphasized her commitment to rebuilding confidence within the organization, and ensuring that the voices of First Nations communities are heard and respected by all stakeholders.
This comes after, RoseAnn Archibald was expelled from the Board of the AFN and removed as National Chief, due to workplace misconduct complaints filed against Archibald last year.
The investigation concluded that Archibald had harassed two staff members and retaliated against all five complainants.
Bernard is the second woman to hold this position, preceding Archibald.
An election will be held at the December 2023 Special Chiefs Assembly to elect the AFN future National Chief.
