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First Nations leaders are preparing to meet with Premier Mark Carney and the nation’s premiers, the first meeting in more than two decades.
Tensions between First Nations leaders and the Canadian government have increased since Carney was elected in 2025, including over legislation passed to simplify the development of major projects.
Some indigenous leaders criticized the law for a lack of consultation, and said it was a threat to reconciliation.
The Assembly of First Nations has been preparing for the meeting for months by holding meetings with municipal leaders to discuss actions they want the government to take.
AFN last week released a series of papers on economic development, policing and public safety, employment, and health.
One of the primary goals of First Nations leaders is a First Nations sovereign wealth fund. The fund, proposed by the Chippewas of the Thames First Nation, would raise capital to ensure First Nations can build long-term wealth in their communities.
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Other leaders worry that if the meeting focuses solely on the economy, other issues such as homelessness, addiction and suicide may not get the attention they deserve.
“Unless the prime minister, premiers and territories are willing to look deeper than resource development or economic reconciliation, I’m afraid they won’t be successful with their agenda,” said Jeff Copenance, chief of the Ojibways of the Onigaming First Nation.
A recent referendum in Alberta highlighted the inclusion of First Nations in decision-making after First Nations in the province said there were “unnecessary barriers” to being able to vote.
Siksika Nation says while they are satisfied with the referendum results, polling stations in their communities are understaffed and did not receive enough ballots from Elections Alberta.
The Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs (AMC) said it will take its priorities to Ottawa on Monday, focusing on treaty rights, governance and reconciliation.
The AMC said it would press for action on economic sovereignty while ensuring that First Nations are consulted in all decisions that affect them.
“Our treaties and our alliance with the Kingdom are agreements between nations. They are not historical treaties that can be set aside when it becomes inconvenient,” said Grand Chief Kyra Wilson. “We will not accept a relationship defined by promises without action. We hope to be treated as equal partners, and we hope the government can work with us.”
Manitoba First Nations leaders voiced their priorities on Saturday ahead of a meeting in Ottawa on Monday.
– With files from The Canadian Press
© 2026 Global News, a division of Corus Entertainment Inc.
