UN Declaration and Indigenous Rights at a Crossroads in Canada: National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak Responds to Minister Fraser’s Remarks – NetNewsLedger
June 5, 2025
OTTAWA — Unceded Algonquin Territory – A political firestorm has erupted following comments from Canada’s Minister of Justice, Sean Fraser, who this week dismissed the notion that Indigenous peoples have a “veto” over land and resource decisions. His remarks have drawn a swift and pointed response from Assembly of First Nations (AFN) National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak — and have reignited debate about Canada’s obligations under both its Constitution and international law, particularly the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP).
National Chief: “Dialogue Must Replace Denial”
In a formal statement delivered from Ottawa, National Chief Woodhouse Nepinak expressed concern that Fraser’s comments undermine Canada’s stated commitment to reconciliation and Indigenous rights.
