The Assembly of First Nations has declared a State of Emergency for First Nations across the country over COVID-19 concerns.
Many First Nations across Canada have already declared a State of Emergency, with some closing their borders and requiring members returning from urban centres to self-isolate for 14 days. To date, 34 First Nations in Ontario have declared a state of emergency in their communities.
Ontario Regional Chief RoseAnne Archibald released a statement saying that she acknowledges the good work of the Premier and the Prime Minister in responding to a heightening crisis and addressing the pandemic.
“For First Nations leaders in Ontario, this is about the health and safety of our First Nations families and communities. We need to act now in order to preserve health and save lives.
The federal and provincial funding announced recently is a start but it is inadequate to meet the anticipated needs, and timelines, as First Nations in Ontario face realities that require unique approaches. We are 133 First Nation communities, mostly located in the north, with over 30 fly-in communities, the most in Canada. We have the most boil-water advisories, and experience overcrowding, melting ice roads, flooding, exacerbating already harmful food security issues and minimal medical assistance.”
