National Chief Invites First Nations and Native American Leaders to Advance Collective Rights and Economic Interests in Response to Regressive Tariffs and New Age of US Colonialism

(February 12, 2025 – Washington, D.C., USA) – During an address to the Winter Assembly of the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) in Washington D.C., National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak invited First Nations leaders on both sides of the Canada-United States border to jointly advance collective rights and economic interests in response to the regressive tariffs and a new age of colonialism emerging from the White House.

“First Nations and Native Americans have inhabited these territories long before colonial borders were established,” said National Chief Woodhouse Nepinak. “With the Jay Treaty of 1794, we have long-standing rights to cross the Canada–U.S. border and engage in trade.  In addition, our territories hold vast deposits of critical minerals and natural resources that fuel industries and sustain communities on both sides of the border.”

The National Chief will join Congress delegates for meetings on Capitol Hill this week.  She also met with NCAI President Mark Macarro on Wednesday. The National Chief thanked him for the opportunity to participate in the Winter Assembly and invited NCAI leaders to attend the AFN Annual General Assembly in July on Treaty One Territory in Manitoba to keep dialogue moving forward.

“The impact of tariffs will be far-reaching for many Nations on both sides of the border,” added National Chief Woodhouse Nepinak. “Higher costs and reduced opportunities will have a direct effect on First Nations businesses and consumers, many of whom already experience challenges in economic participation. In uncertain times, we need to protect each other and be on the lookout for new opportunities that may emerge.”

When last imposed in 2017, US tariffs led to the renegotiation of trade between Canada, Mexico and the United States. First Nations and Native Americans contributed to an agreement that included exceptions to protect rand other specific preferences for First Nation businesses.

“Protecting sovereignty and border mobility rights during this new age of White House colonialism requires us to mobilize, innovate and collaborate for the shared prosperity of every Nation across Turtle Island,” concluded Chief Woodhouse Nepinak. “Despite the dangers we face, I am optimistic for the future because our people are already demonstrating leadership. There is much work ahead, but by strengthening our relations, united, we can achieve anything.”

The AFN and NCAI entered into a special Kinship Declaration over 25 years ago to formalize collaboration, achieve mutual goals and promote sustainable development for First Nations and Tribes.

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The Assembly of First Nations (AFN) is a national advocacy organization that works to advance the collective aspirations of First Nations individuals and communities across Canada on matters of national or international nature and concern.

For more information, please contact:

Cherish Francis
Press Secretary
National Chief’s Office
(343) 630-1372 (mobile)
cfrancis@afn.ca

Kelly Reid
Senior Communications Officer
Assembly of First Nations
(613) 292-0857 (mobile)
kreid@afn.ca

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