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Dene leaders celebrate further advancement on major resolutions
From Jordan's Principle to animal and environmental protection, the Assembly of First Nations made advancements on several important subjects
Dene National Chief, George Mackenzie, along with several other Indigenous leaders recently celebrated another step forward in the fight for self-determination.
While gathered at the Assembly of First Nations (AFN) Special Chiefs Assembly from December 2nd to the 5th, the AFN was able to pass the 2025 Direct Funding to the Dene Nation (NWT Region) for Child Welfare Compensation and Long-Term Reform, and Jordan’s Principle.
Also known as Resolution #003, this will allow the Dene First Nations to have direct access to funding for their communities to address issues without the need for intermediaries. In speaking on the passing of the Resolution, Chief Mackenzie said that “It is important for the Dene to be self-determined and self-sufficient. Long gone are the days when outsiders can make decisions on our behalf.”
Other resolutions also saw broad support from Dene Leaders, including the “Health of All Our Relations – First Nations, Animals, and Food Systems,” and a resolution from Yukon that aims to protect the Porcupine Caribou Herd, among other environmental endeavors.
In a press release, Chief Mackenzie expressed his excitement for the upcoming Dene National Assembly for the opportunity to further discuss these and many other matters such as child welfare, housing, and Indigenous policing.
“The unity demonstrated by Dene Leaders is a powerful reminder of our shared commitment to addressing common concerns that impact our health, environment, and future. Together, we will continue to advocate for the rights and interests of the Dene Nation and ensure that our voices are heard in all matters affecting our communities.”
