Promoting a Sustainable Future for Association of Iroquois and Allied Indians First Nations

Ontario and First Nations Working Together to Address Priority Issues

Ontario and the Association of Iroquois and Allied Indians (AIAI) signed a negotiated Terms of Reference today to strengthen the joint working relationship aimed at promoting healthier, prosperous and sustainable AIAI communities.

The agreement will guide how Ontario and AIAI will work together on joint priorities that give AIAI First Nations the ability to take more control over child welfare decisions and improve health care and housing. Agreements like these recognize the important contributions that Indigenous peoples, their cultures and traditions have made and continue to make in the province, and promote collaborative relationships.

Signing the Terms of Reference with AIAI is one of many steps on Ontario’s journey of healing and reconciliation with Indigenous peoples. It reflects the government’s commitment to work with Indigenous partners to create a better future for everyone in the province.

Quick Facts

• AIAI is a non-profit organization which advocates for the political interests of member nations in Ontario.
• Under the Terms of Reference, AIAI and Ontario will continue to meet at the leadership and technical levels with other ministries to advance progress on mutual priorities.
• AIAI is unique among provincial territorial organizations in Canada, because it is an association of several different member nations; the Oneida, the Mohawk, the Delaware, the Potawatomi and the Ojibway.
• Ontario is working with Indigenous partners to address the legacy of residential schools, close gaps and remove barriers, support Indigenous culture, and reconcile relationships with Indigenous people.

Additional Resources

• The Journey Together: Ontario’s Commitment to Reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples
• Ontario Ministry of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation
• The Association of Iroquois and Allied Indians

Quotes

“Ontario is committed to inclusive engagement that ensures Indigenous voices are heard and involved in decision making. I am pleased that together, and in a spirit of collaboration with the Association of Iroquois and Allied Indians, we can take action to build a better future for their communities.”

David Zimmer

Minister of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation

“The signing of a Terms of Reference with Ontario sets out formal tables those AIAI member nations can address their concerns at, and signals not only our commitment to bettering our communities, but the province’s commitment as well. May the relationship with Ontario be one of mutual peace, respect, and friendship.”

Joel Abram

Grand Chief, Association of Iroquois and Allied Indians