SCO is transforming the iconic Hudson’s Bay Company (HBC) heritage building in downtown Winnipeg. SCO has a visionary plan to turn the building into a space for economic and social reconciliation.
The Wehwehneh Bahgahkinahgohn project is the largest redevelopment of an historic building in Manitoba. Its revitalization will help to revive Winnipeg’s downtown.
SCO and Southern Chiefs’ Economic Development invite you to register for Binasi 2027.
Join us on March 3 and 4, 2027, at the RBC Convention Centre in Winnipeg, Treaty One Territory.
The forum will feature presentations, inspiring speakers, a trade show, networking opportunities, and the opportunity to connect, learn, and showcase First Nations economic development.
SCO is honouring First Nations Veterans, sharing their stories, and recognizing their service and sacrifices leading up to Indigenous Veterans Day on November 8 and Remembrance Day on November 11.
Through our First Nations Veterans Program, SCO advocates for First Nations Veterans and helps connect them with support and resources.
Visit and contribute to our Veterans’ Wall of Honour, which recognizes Veterans from SCO’s 33 Anishinaabe and Dakota member Nations.
Visit our Veterans Events page to find events and opportunities to honour those who served.
Learn more about SCO’s work to honour First Nations Veterans.
The Southern Chiefs’ Organization (SCO) is sharing information that may help First Nations citizens reduce energy costs.
Efficiency Manitoba runs the "First Nations Energy Efficiency Program."
It offers a free "EnerGuide" home evaluation.
This can help you: ~identify where your home may be losing energy; and ~which upgrades can make the biggest difference.
Homeowners can access a range of free energy-saving upgrades.
These include: – Insulation and pipe insulation wrap – LED light bulbs – Smart thermostats – Low-flow showerheads and faucet aerators – Enhanced rebates are also available for energy-efficient windows and doors.
If your First Nation owns your home, Efficiency Manitoba works with your Nation's housing department to help make the process straightforward and accessible.
To learn more, email Efficiency Manitoba at: IndigenousPrograms@efficiencyMB.ca
KNOWLEDGE IS AN IMPORTANT PART OF PREVENTING DIABETES
Diabetes affects many First Nations citizens.
First Nations people experience higher rates of diabetes than non-Indigenous people in Canada. We are more likely to experience complications related to diabetes.
The ongoing impacts of colonization, intergenerational trauma, systemic racism, food insecurity, and barriers to accessing health care and affordable, nutritious foods all contribute to these health inequities.
Early detection can make a difference to help prevent or delay complications associated with diabetes.
Making sure that you are having regular checkups with a health care provider is important, even if you feel healthy.
Consider asking your doctor or health care provider about getting tested for diabetes.
As we recognize World Diabetes Day, the Southern Chiefs’ Organization (SCO) encourages First Nations citizens to learn more about diabetes, recognize the signs and risk factors, and access the supports available.
SCO has information and a list of diabetes-related resources on our Health Resources webpage.
The first cohort of "A Warrior’s Way Forward" is underway.
This new program, run by the Justice Team at the Southern Chiefs’ Organization (SCO), is providing First Nations youth with the guidance, encouragement, and practical skills they need as they transition from the justice system and work toward successful futures.
We are already seeing the importance of building relationships, learning new skills, and growing confidence.
Through their time at Sagehill Stables, youth are building connections with one another and with the Ojibway Spirit Horses.
What may have started with hesitation is becoming an opportunity to develop trust, patience, responsibility, and a better understanding of their own strengths.
Every young person has gifts and talents. Sometimes, it takes trying something new—with the right support—to discover them.
We look forward to seeing the growth and confidence continue to develop in the weeks ahead!
SCO CALLS FOR FIRST NATIONS-LED APPROACH TO NEW DAUPHIN CENTRE FOR JUSTICE
The Southern Chiefs’ Organization (SCO) acknowledges the Manitoba government's announcement of a $142-million investment in the first phase of the new Dauphin Centre for Justice and is calling for a First Nations-led approach in the development and delivery of culturally grounded rehabilitation and healing programs.
The province announced plans for a new 100-bed correctional facility, including 25 dedicated therapeutic-community beds, designed to integrate secure custody with rehabilitation, cultural programming, mental health supports, and reintegration services.
“First Nations people continue to be disproportionately represented in Manitoba's correctional system, and we need to confront the systemic issues that have brought us to this point,” stated Grand Chief Jerry Daniels. “We welcome investments that recognize the importance of rehabilitation and culturally appropriate supports. However, meaningful change requires First Nations to be directly involved in designing and delivering these services, with a focus on healing, prevention, and helping our citizens successfully return to their families and communities.”
SCO represents 33 Anishinaabe and Dakota First Nations in what is now southern Manitoba. Browse our news archive and stay up-to-date on coverage of our work to protect, preserve, promote, and enhance the lives and rights of First Nations peoples.