b'MESSAGE FROM THE ONTARIO REGIONAL CHIEFWorking in True Partnership is a Work in ProgressROSEANNE ARCHIBALDW ahcheeyay, essary agendas and government and Ontario Regional Chief Aanii, Sh:kon!corporate interests.Welcome to theMy goal is to continue to work seventh edition of thecollaboratively to drive our solutions official Chiefs of Ontario magazine,and innovative approaches forward and, Advocate. As Ontario Regional Chief, Imost importantly, ensure we are imple-would like to extend my warm regardsmenting community-based, trauma-to our readers and thank all those whoinformed responses and protocols. In contributed to making this magazinethis age of intergenerational trauma and a reality. healing, we know we must invest more The contents of this edition will keepinto mental health and social programs you entertained and informed. Not onlyso we can strengthen the health and does it include stories on current musicalwell-being of our peoples. acts and authors, but it also includesIn 2020, the Chiefs of Ontario, socio-economic issues facing Firstalongside First Nations leadership, will Nations in Ontario, such as resourcecontinue to achieve our collective priori-development and health and well-being.ties and advance First Nations control to There is also an important update on theaddress the socio-economic and health issue of Missing and Murdered Indig- impacts within our communities. We enous Women and Girls (MMIWG)look forward to sharing that success and the ongoing implementation of thewithin these pages.231 Calls to Action listed within theThere is a positive spirit interwoven MMIWG Final Report. All of this isinto each story in this magazine that essential reading. informs, uplifts and holds our nations As we move forward into a wholeinto a light for all of us to celebrate. new decade and into my halfway mark asAnd while I cant highlight everyone Regional Chief, it is my plan to continueand all our successes in these pages, we to work with the leaders across thehope this publication will be a source of province to develop a strategic approacheducation, inspiration and reference for with both levels of government, one thatall our readers. is based on mutual respect and workingAs we enter a new decade, I look collaboratively.forward to standing alongside each With a Liberal minority federalone of you as you exercise your rights government and a Conservative provin- and continue the vital work for the cial government, building a working rela- advancement and brighter future of First tionship with First Nations in OntarioNations citizens and communities in has never been more important.our region.I have heard loud and clear fromChi-meegwetch for your continuing our leaders that we need to continue tosupport and encouragement.advance our right to self-determination,Ninanaskamon!which includes First Nations asserting jurisdiction over their territories andWishing you peace beyond all under-protecting their interests from unnec- standing.10l ISSUE 2 2019/20C hIEfS ofo ntarIoA dvocAte magazInE'