“The decision to cut back substantial funding for this critical initiative is not only disheartening but also disrespectful to the survivors and families affected by the residential school system,” said AMC Deputy Grand Chief Betsy Kennedy. “The search for truth and justice must go forward without further delays or federal roadblocks, especially when it concerns the lost lives of our children. The lack of political will on this issue, and many other issues as related to First Nations, is counterproductive to reconciliation and violates the principles of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.”

The identification and commemoration of unmarked graves are essential in honouring the spirit of all the little ones who are lost, who deserve to be brought home to rest in ceremony among their loved ones. Finding and recovering those who have died while attending Residential Schools is critical in healing our nations. It is also an important step in acknowledging the full extent of the atrocities committed within the Residential School system. The withholding of funds undermines the healing process for survivors and Nations who are seeking closure and justice for the numerous children who never returned home.

The AMC highlights that UNDRIP Article 19 mandates governments to consult and cooperate in good faith with Indigenous peoples through their representative institutions before adopting and implementing legislative or administrative measures that may affect them. The abrupt reduction of funding without consultation exemplifies a breach of this international standard.

Deputy Grand Chief Kennedy added, “The government’s decision to reduce funding without any discussion with First Nations Leadership highlights a missed opportunity for Canada to strengthen its relationship with First Nations governments. We call for the restoration of funding and true consultation and cooperation with First Nations Leadership. True progress is built on mutual respect and understanding, and it is the responsibility of the Federal Government to reflect these values.”

The Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs has sent a letter to Minister Anandasangaree, asking to reinstate adequate funding for the investigation and memorialization of unmarked graves at former Indian Residential Schools. The AMC remains steadfast in its commitment to advocating for the rights and well-being of First Nations in Manitoba and will continue to hold the federal government accountable for its promises and responsibilities.

For more information, please contact:

Communications Team
Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs
Email:  media@manitobachiefs.com

About the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs

The AMC was formed in 1988 by the Chiefs in Manitoba to advocate on issues that commonly affect First Nations in Manitoba. AMC is an authorized representative of 62 of the 63 First Nations in Manitoba with a total of more than 172,000 First Nations citizens in the province, accounting for approximately 12 percent of the provincial population. AMC represents a diversity of Anishinaabe (Ojibway), Nehetho / Ininew (Cree), Anisininew (Ojibwe-Cree), Denesuline (Dene) and Dakota Oyate (Dakota) peoples.

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