MESSAGE FROM THE ONTARIO REGIONAL CHIEF ABRAM BENEDICT Ontario Regional Chief Issue 1 2026 – Chiefs of Ontario Advocate magazine 10 l S he:kon, It is my honour to welcome you to the summer 2026 edition of Advocate, the official magazine of the Chiefs of Ontario. This edition’s theme, Rooted in Community: Together We Lead, Together We Thrive, reflects the knowledge and collective leadership that guide Nations across Ontario. While every Nation is distinct, our collective strength is built through a shared commitment to protecting our people, rights, lands, languages and future generations. The stories in this edition show how strength is grounded in community and carried forward through action. Our feature on the Jay Treaty focuses on the inherent right of First Nations people to maintain relationships, travel, trade, work and gather across the imposed Canada-United States border. For generations, First Nations citizens have crossed the medicine line to attend ceremonies, visit relatives, pursue employment and remain connected to their Nations and territories. Today, as increased scrutiny and changing border practices have created new challenges, it is important that First Nations citizens understand their rights and have access to the information and resources needed to exercise them safely. This edition also looks at the implementation of Jordan’s Principle. Created in memory of Jordan River Anderson, Jordan’s Principle is intended to ensure that every First Nations child receive the health, social and educational supports they need without delay. Unfortunately, communities and families continue to face administrative barriers, funding limitations, jurisdictional disputes and lengthy approval and payment processes. These challenges reinforce the need for continued advocacy and accountability. The Chief profile in this issue highlights Nipissing First Nation Gimaa Cathy Stevens and her work to strengthen wellness and pursue economic opportunities that respect harvesting practices and Treaty rights. Our youth profile features Ramon Mahegkan Kataquapit of Attawapiskat First Nation, whose work reminds us that young people are already leading change and helping shape the future of their Nations. I hope you find inspiration in the summer edition of Advocate. I wish everyone a safe and enjoyable summer. Please stay cool during the warm weather and make time to recon- nect with community and the land. I also look forward to gathering with Chiefs and leadership at the Chiefs of Ontario Fall Chiefs Assembly, taking place on Nov. 23-25, 2026, in Toronto. Niá:wen Rooted in Community: Together We Lead, Together We Thrive
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