Advancing Anishinaabe and Dakota Nation Priorities: SCO Chiefs Meet with Minister of Indigenous Services Canada

Press Release

May 21, 2026

“Our responsibility as leaders is to ensure every conversation moves us closer to real, lasting change for our Nations. We cannot continue to operate in short-term cycles that leave our Nations reacting instead of planning for the future” – Grand Chief Jerry Daniels

ANISHINAABE AND DAKOTA TERRITORY, MB — Leadership from the Southern Chiefs’ Organization (SCO) met with the Honourable Mandy Gull-Masty, Minister of Indigenous Services, in Winnipeg, Treaty One Territory to discuss priorities for First Nations in southern Manitoba.

SCO leadership raised the needs of our member Nations and emphasized the requirement for long-term solutions for Anishinaabe and Dakota citizens. Grand Chief Jerry Daniels, Chief Kurvis Anderson of Pinaymootang First Nation, Chief David Meeches of Long Plain First Nation, and Chief Lisa Young of Bloodvein River First Nation met with the Minister.

“Our Chiefs raised urgent and ongoing issues impacting their Nations. These include funding for post-secondary education; water and treatment plant infrastructure; and the need to end legislative discrimination via Bill S-2: An Act to amend the Indian Act (new registration entitlements),” shared Grand Chief Daniels. “The Chiefs also raised the issue of capacity funding associated with the Canadian Human Rights Tribunal ruling 41: First Nations Child and Family Caring Society of Canada et al. versus the Attorney General of Canada (representing the Minister of Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada).”

Chiefs also raised the drug crisis and need for increased check stops. They also discussed challenges with road maintenance, access to Jordan’s Principle, capital investments for a new health centre, as well as concerns related to major project partnerships, housing, and transportation infrastructure.

Grand Chief Daniels emphasized that opportunities must result in concrete action that reflects First Nations perspectives and supports long-term Nation building.

“Our responsibility as leaders is to ensure every conversation moves us closer to real, lasting change for our Nations. We cannot continue to operate in short-term cycles that leave our Nations reacting instead of planning for the future,” said Grand Chief Daniels.

The Chiefs emphasized the importance of ensuring that conversations translate into action and that First Nations leadership and governance are included in all aspects of that process.

Grand Chief Daniels underscored the need for stable, multi-year funding arrangements that enable long-term planning and reduce reliance on crisis-based approaches, particularly in areas such as mental wellness supports and community infrastructure.

Minister Gull-Masty acknowledged the issues raised by SCO Chiefs and spoke to broader federal considerations.

She addressed concerns surrounding the seriousness of the HIV and Hepatitis A crisis in Manitoba, emphasizing the need for a coordinated trilateral approach between First Nations, provincial, and federal partners to respond effectively and prevent further escalation. The Minister also noted post-secondary education funding as a continuing federal priority. In addition, she highlighted growing national and international concern about water, noting a policy shift from “water protection” toward long-term water security, and referenced Bill C-61: First Nations Clean Water Act as a potential mechanism to strengthen frameworks and enable more consistent funding in this area.

“It is important to have these meetings to share the concerns each Nation may have. The Nation-to-Nation collaboration shows the willingness to work together to create this working relationship,” shared Chief Young of Bloodvein River First Nation. “Minister Gull-Masty took her time in hearing us out and showed her compassion towards each Nation she met with. Bloodvein River First Nation appreciates the time and effort, and the support from Grand Chief Daniels. Kih chi miigwich.”

SCO appreciates the opportunity to meet with the Minister to have an open discussion on these critical issues. The meeting ended with recognition of the unique context of Manitoba, particularly in relation to child welfare, and SCO’s ongoing leadership in advancing the work of southern First Nations.

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The Southern Chiefs’ Organization represents 33 Anishinaabe and Dakota Nations and more than 92,000 citizens in what is now called southern Manitoba. SCO is an independent political organization that protects, preserves, promotes, and enhances First Nations peoples’ inherent rights, languages, customs, and traditions through the application and implementation of the spirit and intent of the Treaty-making process.

For media inquiries:

Email: Media@scoinc.mb.ca

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