National Chief’s Response to US Tariffs: Nurturing Nation-to-Nation Relationship between Canada and First Nations Has Never Been More Important

(April 4, 2025 – Unceded Algonquin Territory, Ottawa) – National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak released the following statement regarding new trade tariffs imposed by the United States and Canada’s response:

“Canada and First Nations are facing a U.S. administration that is antagonistic toward traditional allies and disinterested in multilateral institutions and the rule of law. At this critical moment in Canada’s history, we have the opportunity to support one another in navigating this new era of U.S. colonialism. Together, we can dismantle trade barriers within Canada, close long-standing infrastructure gaps affecting First Nations, and develop stronger trade relations around the globe.”

“First Nations lands hold vast deposits of critical minerals, forests, and freshwater supplies that sustain communities on both sides of the border. We retain our original sovereignty over these lands and territories. Under Canada’s Constitution and common law, economic reconciliation is more than a legal obligation. It is an economic prerequisite for Canada’s success. Canada’s wealth and gross domestic product are generated from First Nation lands and resources in which we hold Treaty rights and inherent rights, title, and jurisdiction. Both international and Canadian laws protect First Nations’ right to self determination, including our rights to natural resources. That is why First Nations leaders must be included in First Ministers’ Meetings and other intergovernmental meetings on these matters—not as guests to be tolerated for a short time, but as full participants.”

Earlier this week, the Assembly of First Nations (AFN) provided a series of 2025 federal election priorities to federal party leaders, titled Prosperity for All: First Nations Priorities for the 2025 Federal Election. Each federal party leader has been invited to consider commitments on key issues important to First Nations, including economic reconciliation, Canada-U.S. trade, border mobility, and Arctic sovereignty. In addition to calling for First Nations’ participation in Team Canada meetings and future trade agreements, Prosperity for All outlines a blueprint for economic reconciliation aimed at unlocking the full potential of the First Nations economy and create hundreds of thousands of new jobs.

“In challenge often lies opportunity,” concluded National Chief Woodhouse. “Canada and First Nations are long-standing allies and partners. In response to this crisis, we can chart new paths to secure the well-being and prosperity of both Canada and First Nations.”

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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
Office of the National Chief
(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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