THUNDER BAY — Indigenous leaders in Ontario are concerned with the impact U.S.-imposed tariffs will have on First Nations.
In a joint statement issued Wednesday afternoon, Ontario Regional Chief Abram Benedict and Nishnawbe Aski Nation Grand Chief Alvin Fiddler said the tariffs, which went into effect on Tuesday, will immediately increase financial hardship for First Nations in the province.
“Many First Nations already contend with significant economic challenges, including the high cost of living and limited access to essential goods and services,” the chiefs said. “This reality is even more pronounced in northern and remote communities, where transportation and access costs far exceed those in urban centres. These new tariffs will only make matters worse, creating even greater barriers to economic stability and community well-being.”
Both the Chiefs of Ontario and NAN support the immediate response by both the federal and provincial governments through retaliatory measures.
“However, it is critical that both governments uphold the nation-to-nation relationship and include First Nations in decision-making processes when inherent Treaty and constitutional rights are affected,” the chiefs said in their statement.
Benedict and Fiddler are also asking for mitigating measures, including allocating resources to support families and individuals struggling with the rising costs associated with the tariffs.
“We also take this opportunity to call upon the United States government to honour its commitment to the principles enshrined in the Jay Treaty of 1794. This treaty guarantees the inherent right of First Nations to cross the Canada-U.S. border freely and affirms the right to self-determination. Upholding these principles is not only a matter of respecting historical agreements but also of recognizing the ongoing and enduring relationship between First Nations and all of Turtle Island,” the chiefs said.
