For over 25 years, Southern Chiefs’ Organization has been front and center in its work to advocate for southern First Nations in what is now called Manitoba.
True North officially buys Portage Place Mall
CTV News
True North Real Estate Development (TNRED) has officially purchased Portage Place Mall. The deal, which includes the mall, land, and assets, was completed late Friday. The site will also feature a 15-storey residential tower built in partnership with the Southern Chiefs’ Organization. The tower will include more than 200 units, with more than 40 per cent of the space earmarked for affordable housing.
November 29, 2024
‘Nightmarish mistake’: SCO calls for investigation into botched Winnipeg surgery
Global News
The Southern Chiefs’ Organization is calling for an investigation into a botched amputation at Grace Hospital in Winnipeg, in which a man from Bloodvein First Nation had the wrong leg removed. Jason Kennedy went into hospital for an amputation of his right leg due to an infection, the SCO said, and came out of surgery with the left one removed below the knee.
November 13, 2024
SCO calling for investigation after man has leg mistakenly amputated
CityNews
The Southern Chiefs’ Organization (SCO) is calling for an investigation after a member of the Bloodvein First Nation had a leg mistakenly amputated. The SCO says Jason Kennedy reportedly went to have his right leg amputated at the Grace Hospital in Winnipeg, but after he came out of his surgery, his found that his left leg had been removed instead.
November 12, 2024
$450K in new scholarships to help First Nations students pursue careers in health care
CTV News
A new partnership will give 150 awards worth hundreds of thousands of dollars to help First Nations students pursue careers in health care. The Southern Chiefs’ Organization announced it has partnered with the Business Council of Manitoba and the Province of Manitoba to give $450,000 over a five-year period to help students from SCO member nations pursue post-secondary education in health care.
November 12, 2024
Program to grant 150 scholarships to Indigenous health-care students through SCO partnership
CBC News
Grand Chief Jerry Daniels of the Southern Chiefs Organization said scholarships will be awarded annually to 30 students who want to pursue a post-secondary career in health care. The total of 150 scholarships will go to students from the 33 First Nation communities represented by the SCO.
November 12, 2024
Marking Indigenous Veterans Day
CTV News
Justin Woodcock with the Southern Chiefs’ Organization discusses Indigenous Veterans Day and what makes the event so important.
November 8, 2024
Indigenous Veterans Day honours unique history and sacrifice in Manitoba
CBC News
Indigenous Veterans Day was first established in 1993 by the National Aboriginal Veterans Association on Nov. 8. The day honours the thousands of First Nations, Métis and Inuit who served in the Canadian Armed Forces. "The day was created in response to Aboriginal Veterans Association being unable, not allowed, to place a wreath at the national remembrance ceremony," said Justin Woodcock, a veteran and First Nation veteran co-ordinator for the Southern Chiefs' Organization.
November 8, 2024
‘False and misleading’: Indigenous group says BC Conservative candidate must be removed
Global News
The Southern Chiefs’ Organization is calling on the BC Conservative Party to remove one of its candidates following remarks she made on election night about Indigenous Peoples. “I am appalled, shocked, and deeply saddened after reading what this candidate had to say about all our relatives across Turtle Island,” SCO Grand Chief Jerry Daniels said in a statement. “She should never have been chosen as a candidate for any public office. I call on the leadership of the B.C. Conservative Party to do what’s right and denounce her words and her candidacy.”
October 28, 2024
Indigenous composers give water a voice in Nestaweya concert
APTN News
In September, the Southern Chiefs’ Organization filed a lawsuit seeking Charter Rights for Lake Winnipeg, known traditionally as Weeniibiikiisagaygun.
October 18, 2024
Understanding the Lake Winnipeg lawsuit
Free Press
The Southern Chiefs’ Organization has filed a lawsuit to declare Lake Winnipeg a person with constitutional rights to life, liberty and security of person. That may strike non-Indigenous Canadians as unusual. But it fits well with an Indigenous view of the planet.
October 5, 2024
Winnipeg Blue Bombers will wear orange jerseys for National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
CBC
Southern Chiefs' Organization community ambassador Kevin Chief talks about what it means for Winnipeg's professional football team to wear orange jerseys at Princess Auto Stadium this week
September 27, 2024
Winnipeg city council approves Portage Place plan
CTV News
On Friday, federal support and approvals could be announced, as Liberal minister Dan Vandal is set to participate in a news conference at the mall with True North and the Southern Chiefs' Organization (SCO).
September 26, 2024
SCO Raises Over $110,000 for First Nations Education at Annual Golf Tournament
NNL Digital News
The Southern Chiefs’ Organization (SCO) celebrated the success of its seventh annual fundraising golf tournament, raising over $110,000 to support scholarships for First Nations students. This year’s tournament was the most successful to date, helping fund both annual and endowed scholarships for students from SCO-member Nations.
September 23, 2024
Make Lake Winnipeg a legal 'person' with Constitutional rights, Manitoba chiefs ask court
National Post
A court has been asked to declare Lake Winnipeg a person with constitutional rights to life, liberty and security of person in a case that may go further than any other in trying to establish the rights of nature in Canada. “It really is that simple,” said Grand Chief Jerry Daniels of the Manitoba Southern Chiefs’ Organization, which filed the suit Thursday in Court of King’s Bench in Winnipeg.
September 19, 2024
SCO wants Lake Winnipeg to be declared a living being
CTV News
The Southern Chiefs' Organization (SCO) is launching a Charter challenge to have Lake Winnipeg declared a living being, claiming that the province and Manitoba Hydro are damaging the lake with development. The challenge against both the Manitoba government and Hydro was announced Thursday.
September 19, 2024
The Southern Chiefs' Organization files Charter challenge against Manitoba Hydro and the province
City News
The Southern Chiefs' Organization launches Charter challenge against Manitoba Hydro and the provincial government, to give Lake Winnipeg the legal rights and protections of a living entity. Mitchell Ringos reports.
September 19, 2024
SCO seeking Charter Rights for Lake Winnipeg in suit against province, Manitoba Hydro
APTN News
The Southern Chiefs’ Organization (SCO) is taking the province and Manitoba Hydro to court over their long-term treatment of Lake Winnipeg, traditionally known as Weeniibiikiisagaygun. On Thursday, the SCO, along with four water protectors, filed a Statement of Claim seeking Charter Rights for Lake Winnipeg. They’re demanding the lake – which serves many surrounding First Nations – be declared a living entity.
September 19, 2024
Southern Chiefs call for 'culture change' when Winnipeg hires new top cop
Global News
An organization representing more than 30 First Nations in southern Manitoba says it wants a seat at the table for the hiring of a new Winnipeg police chief. The Southern Chiefs Organization (SCO) surveyed members and found a staggering 70 per cent of respondents said they had had first-hand experience with racism in policing, and a further 66 per cent said they have avoided seeking help from police for that reason.
September 16, 2024
Settlement deadline looms: chiefs’ organization
Free Press
The Southern Chiefs’ Organization is reminding citizens of the First Nations it represents that deadlines for objections to a class-action lawsuit settlement over children’s special allowances are coming near.
August 19, 2024
Peguis youth returns from Paris games
APTN News
Youth chiefs with the Southern Chiefs Organization in Manitoba have had quite a summer. For instance, Josh Gandier was a special guest of the International Olympic Committee at the opening ceremonies of the Summer Olympics in Paris. APTN’s Creeson Agecoutay spoke to him and Youth Chief Trechelle Bunn about their trips and experiences.
August 6, 2024
Strides made on drug harm reduction: chiefs
Free Press
As the Southern Chiefs’ Organization starts its third year of harm-reduction outreach, organizers say the stigma of drug use has changed significantly in the communities it represents. Since its inception in 2022, the program has shifted from SCO staff going to communities and providing harm reduction supplies, to giving health care providers the skills and support to offer the care themselves, said Michelle Monkman, vice-president of health services and programs.
July 15, 2024
Shift of health care to First Nations step towards sovereignty
Free Press
If you want a better understanding of why the provincial and federal governments are transferring control of health care services to First Nations in southern Manitoba, I highly recommend you read a report that was released this week by the Southern Chiefs’ Organization. It is one of the best and most concise documents I’ve ever read on how colonialism has impacted the health and well-being of First Nations people.
July 11, 2024
Jerry Daniels wins another term as grand chief of Southern Chiefs' Organization
The Canadian Press
First Nations chiefs in southern Manitoba have voted to keep Jerry Daniels as the leader of the organization that represents Anishinaabe and Dakota communities in the province. Daniels has been re-elected as grand chief of the Southern Chiefs' Organization after first securing the position in 2017.
June 25, 2024
Sixties Scoop Survivors gathering in Winnipeg
City News
Southern Chiefs’ Organization, Anish Corporation host Sixties Scoop Survivors gathering in Winnipeg. As Alex Karpa reports, the international gathering intends to focus on healing and connection for the Survivors.
April 29, 2024
Hundreds of ’60s scoop survivors connect in Winnipeg
APTN News
Hosted by the Anish Corporation and the Southern Chiefs’ Organization, the Finding Our Spirits gathering gives survivors from across the globe the chance to share experiences and reconnect.
April 29, 2024
'I'm not alone': Sixties Scoop survivors gather in Winnipeg to reconnect, heal
CBC News
The event, hosted by the Southern Chiefs' Organization and the Anish Corporation — which promotes health, wellness and emotional support for Indigenous peoples — is welcoming survivors from across Canada and from the U.S.
April 28, 2024
Manidoo Miiniigooizowin, A Gift from the Creator exhibit at the Manitoba Museum
APTN News
A political organization representing 34 First Nations in southern Manitoba is celebrating 25 years of its existence by sharing their Anishinaabe and Dakota heritage with the rest of the province through an exhibit at the Manitoba Museum.
April 25, 2024
Reaction pours in to NDP’s first budget
Winnipeg Free Press
In a statement, the Southern Chiefs’ Organization said it is pleased with many aspects of the budget, including investments in harm reduction, chronic homelessness, and a commitment to the landfill search.
April 2, 2024
Manitoba Museum hosts exhibit celebrating SCO communities
Winnipeg Sun
The southern Manitoba communities that have been represented for the last 25 years by the Southern Chiefs’ Organization (SCO) are being celebrated with a new exhibit at the Manitoba Museum. Last week the SCO, a political advocacy organization that represents 34 southern Manitoba First Nations, announced the “Manidoo Miiniigooizowin, A Gift from the Creator” exhibit is now running at the Manitoba Museum in downtown Winnipeg.
April 1, 2024
Mental health one affect of colonization says Mohawk psychologist
APTN News
Hundreds of delegates assembled at the RBC Convention Centre in Winnipeg this week for the Southern Chiefs’ Organization’s First Nations Health Gathering. One of the issues discussed was Indigenous Peoples and mental health.
March 21, 2024
SCO wants to transform health care
CTV News
The Southern Chiefs' Organization wants to transform health care for 34 First Nations leads MedicalWatch for March 19, 2024.
March 19, 2024
Free harm reduction, sex health supplies just a touch away at Winnipeg clinic's vending machine
CBC News
Data collected from the machine will help determine which supplies people are using the most, and the number of new or returning users, Milks said. It will also show NorWest whether there are programs or other services that need to be offered more frequently in the community. Some of the items in the new vending machine are being donated by community organizations such as Street Connections, the United Way and the Southern Chiefs' Organization, she said.
March 13, 2024
SCO program offers help for First Nations veterans
Brandon Sun
The Southern Chiefs’ Organization was on hand for Sioux Valley Dakota Nation’s Winterfest on the weekend promoting its First Nations Veterans Program, which aims to help First Nations veterans seeking support. The First Nations Veterans Program is designed, guided and led by First Nations veterans and Woodcock assists them in connecting with resources for veterans across the province. He also helps them find and take part in traditional ceremonies and other programs and supports.
January 30, 2024
The Southern Chiefs’ Organization launches campaign aimed at ’60s Scoop
Global News
As a way to care for those impacted by the ’60s Scoop, a Manitoba organization is launching a new education and awareness campaign. The Southern Chiefs’ Organization launched its campaign, titled Stronger than the Scoop, on Wednesday. The campaign focuses on aiding those from SCO’s member nations with a healing gathering scheduled in the coming days.
January 17, 2024
CBC News
Two major redevelopment projects in downtown Winnipeg joined forces on Tuesday in what Grand Chief Jerry Daniels called "an act of true reconciliation — economic reconciliation." True North Real Estate Development, the real estate arm of the company that owns the Winnipeg Jets, signed a memorandum of understanding with the Southern Chiefs' Organization, which represents 34 Anishinaabe and Dakota First Nations in southern Manitoba.
December 12, 2023
Manitoba First Nations, prominent developer sign agreement that could revitalize downtown Winnipeg
Globe and Mail
An organization representing 34 First Nations in southern Manitoba has signed a multiyear agreement with a prominent real-estate developer that has the potential to revive Winnipeg’s struggling downtown core.
December 12, 2023
Healing program for people suffering effects of social and spiritual issues
APTN News
WATCH: The Southern Chiefs' Organization in Manitoba has started a healing program for people suffering the effects of social and spiritual issues. Residential school and 60s Scoop survivors, among others, are reconnecting with their culture.
December 12, 2023
Southern Chiefs' embarks on campaign to support, honour local Indigenous veterans
Winnipeg Sun
“Since the early days of colonization, members of our Nations have played an enormous role in Canada’s military history, including service during wars and other global conflicts,” Southern Chiefs’ Organization (SCO) Grand Chief Jerry Daniels said in a media release.
November 7, 2023
Southern Chiefs' Organization Hopeful for Healing on the Horizon
Free Press
The Southern Chiefs' Organization is making strides towards healing intergenerational trauma with serveral initiatives underway.
September 30, 2023
'Winnipeggers are going to be thrilled': Heritage director on work at former downtown Bay building
Global News
To downtown passersby, Winnipeg’s landmark Hudson’s Bay Company building on Portage Avenue may look the same as it has for almost a century, but inside, new owner the Southern Chiefs Organization (SCO) has been hard at work on the building’s transformation.
September 14, 2023
Every Child Matters campaign launch
CTV News
Watch: Southern Chiefs' Organization launch Every Child Matters Campaign
September 5, 2023
Chiefs’ organization focuses in on overdose prevention and awareness
APTN News
With First Nations communities disproportionately affected by the opioid crisis, overdose prevention and awareness has been the focus of the Southern Chiefs’ Organization in Manitoba.
August 31, 2023
How one youth chief is wasting no time making an impact
APTN News
Just a few short months since being elected as a youth chief for the Southern Chiefs Organization in Manitoba, Tréchelle Bunn is wasting no time making an impact.
August 29, 2023
Poster contest to bring light to overdoses
The Carillon
“The Southern Chiefs’ Organization (SCO) wants to uplift those who have lost friends, family members, and other loved ones to substance poisoning and let them know they are not alone,” Grand Chief Jerry Daniels said in a press release.
August 28, 2023
SCO takes harm reduction approach to addictions
Brandon Sun
The advertising campaign is part of a larger “harm reduction” drug-use strategy on the part of the Southern Chiefs’ Organization. Harm reduction is an umbrella term for an approach that aims to reduce the harms of drug use — such as the spread of infections and overdoses — without the user necessarily having to stop using. It also allows the user to access supports they need in a non-judgemental way.
July 13, 2023
SCO launches harm reduction awareness campaign
CityNews
The Southern Chiefs’ Organization is launching a harm reduction campaign across Manitoba that will see messages on topics such as carrying naloxone to encouraging HIV testing. Edward Djan has more.
July 5, 2023
Support for Orange Shirt Day stat holiday high in Manitoba: poll
Winnipeg Free Press
Grand Chief Jerry Daniels, of the Southern Chiefs’ Organization, also wants to see the day become a statutory holiday. “It’s the right thing to do,” Daniels said. “To acknowledge the truth of the history of Canada, it has to be a recognition of how the country was built. We are still on the margins of society.” Daniels said he hopes recognizing the day doesn’t get hung up on politics. “You can’t make this about populist voting,” he said. “The parties have to do the right thing and acknowledge what happened to our children.”
June 26, 2023
Healing a ‘massive undertaking’
Pentiction Herald
The Southern Chiefs’ Organization (SCO), which represents 34 member nations in southern Manitoba, launched a program to connect First Nations people with traditional healers, knowledge keepers and elders to facilitate all kinds of healing at the end of March this year. Anyone who is a member of an SCO member nation can take part in the Traditional Healers Program, program lead Justin Courchene told the Sun. There are many people who can benefit from connecting with the type of support that elders, healers and knowledge keepers can offer.
June 22, 2023
Economic reconciliation 'is everything' to Indigenous people, business leader says
CBC News
Indigenous and business leaders came together in Winnipeg on Tuesday to build relationships and share ideas as part of a forum focused on the economy and reconciliation. More than a hundred business owners, government leaders and representatives of business organizations gathered at the Victoria Inn near the Winnipeg airport for the Southern Chiefs' Organization's economic reconciliation business forum.
June 13, 2023
'I feel like I'm not behind': Indigenous students in Manitoba embrace Jordan's Principle supports
CBC News
Low graduation rates have been linked to a disconnect between Indigenous and Western education, chronic underfunding for Indigenous students and systemic discrimination. With this in mind, the Southern Chiefs' Organization, which represents 34 First Nations in southern Manitoba, decided to start a Jordan's Principle co-ordinator program. Last year, the advocacy group partnered with two school divisions to bring a Jordan's Principle co-ordinator into schools. Earlier this year, the organization added seven more school divisions as partners.
May 27, 2023
First Nations leaders decry patronage appointment
Free Press
Jerry Daniels, grand chief of the Southern Chiefs’ Organization, said McCrae’s appointment was “extremely disappointing,” while noting how intergenerational trauma continues to affect First Nations citizens. “As First Nations continue to be over-represented within the justice system, it is imperative that people working within this system have a clear understanding of the true and lasting impact of residential schools,” he said in a statement.
May 25, 2023
SCO's plan for downtown Bay honoured
Free Press
The Southern Chiefs’ Organization’s reimagining of the downtown Hudson’s Bay Co. building has been labelled “world changing” and has received an international award. “I think in terms of quality of life, there is going to be an impact felt,” said SCO Grand Chief Jerry Daniels. “It’s going to change the paradigm, the thinking of Manitobans and Winnipeggers as it relates to First Nations.”
May 17, 2023
Manitoba marks King Charles's coronation at home and abroad
CBC News
Southern Chiefs' Organization Grand Chief Jerry Daniels, who represents 34 Anishinaabe and Dakota First Nations in Manitoba, travelled to England to remind the monarchy of the Crown's historic relationship with Indigenous people. "I think he has to understand the sacredness of the relationship that was established," he told CBC News on Friday.
May 7, 2023
More needs to be done to keep Indigenous women, girls safe: Southern Chiefs' leader
Winnipeg Sun
As Canada marked Red Dress Day, a Manitoba Grand Chief called on all levels of government to do more to keep Indigenous women and girls safe in Manitoba, and across Canada. “It is essential that governments of all levels work with First Nations on an urgent basis on this issue, as it is indeed a national emergency,” Southern Chiefs’ Organization Grand Chief Jerry Daniels said in a Friday media release.
May 5, 2023
Manitoba's Southern Chiefs' Organization new youth council inspired by leadership opportunities
CBC News
A new youth chief and council were elected at a Southern Chiefs' Organization event on the weekend, and one of the new heads hopes to elevate the voices and mental health of First Nations young people in Manitoba. The two new chiefs and council members were elected during Oshkii Wadizaag Ga Niiganwendamwaad/Tec'a pi hena wowapi yuha skan pi — a youth gathering in Winnipeg April 25-27 focused on career development. Tréchelle Bunn from Birdtail Sioux Dakota Nation and John Dorie from Sagkeeng Anishinaabe First Nation were elected as new youth chiefs.
April 30, 2023
Birdtail Sioux's Bunn has big aspirations
The Brandon Sun
The Southern Chiefs’ Organization has awarded scholarships to 14 students across its member nations in Manitoba to increase access to education and empower young First Nations people.
April 21, 2023
Take a look inside the former Hudson's Bay building
CTV News
The historic Hudson's Bay building has stood in downtown Winnipeg for nearly a century, and now work by the Southern Chiefs' Organization is underway to make sure it stands for another 100 years. The SCO officially took possession of the building last month after the Hudson's Bay Company transferred ownership last year. On Tuesday, SCO Grand Chief Jerry Daniels gave CTV News a look inside.
April 18, 2023
Southern Chiefs' Organization reveals plans for iconic HBC building: WATCH
CBC News
The Southern Chiefs’ organization lays out its plans to transform a relic of colonialism, Winnipeg’s historic HBC building, into a centre for healing, education and hope. The $130-million redevelopment includes plans for affordable housing, social services and a museum.
April 18, 2023
On the way to Wehwehneh: What it takes to transform downtown Winnipeg's former Bay
CBC News
There were only three floors open to the public when the former Bay department store in downtown Winnipeg was shuttered for good in November 2020. The Hudson's Bay Company's Manitoba flagship had been withering for decades, floor closure after floor closure, by the time the COVID-19 pandemic delivered the final death blow.
April 17, 2023
Get a first look at the future of the former Bay building in downtown Winnipeg
CTV News
New photos from the Southern Chiefs Organizations (SCO) reveal what Winnipeggers can expect for the future of the Hudson’s Bay building in downtown Winnipeg. The SCO took possession of the historic landmark last month, with plans to transform the building into a space for reconciliation.
April 10, 2023
Brandon office symbol of growth: SCO
Brandon Sun
Opening a new office in Brandon will allow the Southern Chiefs’ Organization to improve outreach among its members who live in Westman, says Grand Chief Jerry Daniels. The SCO has been working to open an office in Brandon for some time to better serve, advocate for and represent its members, he said.
March 31, 2023
Winnipeg Sun
The Hudson’s Bay Company building in downtown Winnipeg has officially been transferred to the Southern Chiefs Organization with an aim to open in 2026. On Thursday, SCO Grand Chief Jerry Daniels said the formal transfer of the building on Portage Avenue is a “monumental moment” for southern First Nations.
March 30, 2023
Slow, steady path forward for highly visible First Nations project
Winnipeg Free Press
If you want to know why a consortium of 34 First Nations behind the reimagining of the former Hudson’s Bay Co. historic downtown Winnipeg store have waited a year to start construction, you need only look at the Ojibwa name given to the project. Wehwehneh Bahgahkinahgohn, or “it is visible.”
March 29, 2023
The Bay transformation slow going
Winnipeg Free Press
The First Nations that are transforming the historic Hudson’s Bay Co. building downtown say it’s taking longer than they had hoped, but they’re determined to avoid legal and financial messes to ensure the $130-million project is done right. “We’re trying to be fast about it, but we have to make sure that it’s done properly, too,” said Southern Chiefs Organization Grand Chief Jerry Daniels in an interview Tuesday.
March 28, 2023
SCO launches Traditional Healers Program
City News
The Southern Chiefs Organization has officially launched their Traditional Healers Program, it’s designed to bring ceremony back into the lives of Indigenous peoples, and begin a healing journey.
March 27, 2023
CBC
The Southern Chiefs' Organization officially launched a program Monday that it says will help Manitoba's Indigenous communities move forward. The traditional healers program will use culturally informed practices to treat the spirit, body and mind while also deepening participants' cultural connection, says the organization, which represents nearly three dozen Anishinaabe and Dakota Nations in southern Manitoba.
March 27, 2023
Southern chiefs unveil MMIWG2S+ family support team
Winnipeg Free Press
A dedicated team to support First Nations families whose loved ones have been slain or gone missing has been established in southern Manitoba. The Southern Chiefs’ Organization has organized a support team for member First Nations that can provide trauma-informed and culturally appropriate support for relatives of missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls, two-spirit and gender-diverse people.
March 8, 2023
Bonding with my new besties as survivors come together
Winnipeg Free Press
I attended Mino-si-toon Wichozani last week, the first annual Southern Chiefs’ Organization survivors healing gathering in Treaty One territory. The two-day event, which involves 550 survivors from 79 First Nations, was developed for and by southern First Nation survivors and intergenerational survivors of the residential school and day school system, the ’60s Scoop, the child welfare system, and for all those affected by the issue of murdered and missing Indigenous women, girls, two spirit, and gender-diverse people.
March 6, 2023
'People's spirits connect': Hundreds of First Nations survivors take part in new healing gathering
CTV News
Hundreds of First Nation survivors came together on Monday intending to heal past trauma. The Southern Chiefs' Organization (SCO) hosted its first annual healing gathering at the RBC Convention Centre called "Mino-si-toon Wichozani" which means "Putting things right" and "Healing."
February 27, 2023
Women's Memorial March honours MMIWG2S in Manitoba amid case of alleged serial killer
CBC
The smell of sage and sweetgrass filled the gymnasium at Magnus Eliason Recreation Centre Tuesday night as people gathered for the annual Women's Memorial March. As marchers headed out the door to walk the streets of Winnipeg's West End, organizers handed out packets of tobacco and butterfly wings bearing the names of missing or murdered women, girls and two-spirit people.
February 14, 2023
Indigenous-run community developments taking shape in Winnipeg
The Global and Mail
It takes a bit of imagination to see a neighbourhood rising from an expanse of fields in southwest Winnipeg where a lonely bus stop stands sentinel to a long-gone army base.
February 11, 2023
SCO Court Program Coming to Dauphin
CKDM
The Manitoba government has announced that the First Nation Court Worker Program would be taken over by Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak, Southern Chiefs' Organization (SCO), Manitoba Metis Federation, and the Island Lake Tribal Council. SCO will have court workers in Dauphin, Portage la Prairie, and Selkirk, who will also attend circuit court locations, including those in Bloodvein, Berens River, and other court locations within SCO member Nations.
February 8, 2023
Call for Indigenous voices in health-care talks
CTV News
WATCH: Grand Chief Jerry Daniels joined CTV News to share why First Nations leaders should be included in health discussions with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Premiers on February 7, 2023.
February 6, 2023
CBC News
The Southern Chiefs' Organization says it wants to be at the upcoming meeting between the federal government and provinces as they discuss health-care funding. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced last week that he will host a meeting in Ottawa on Feb. 7 as his government looks to finalize a deal on health-care funding with the provinces. The grand chief of the southern Manitoba organization says First Nations must be represented too.
January 30, 2023
Southern chiefs want voice in national health-care funding talks
Free Press
A week before Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is set to meet with the premiers in Ottawa, five First Nations chiefs held a news conference Monday to bring attention to their concerns. Every week, they hear about incidents in which their citizens are not given appropriate treatment, said Jerry Daniels, grand chief of the Southern Chiefs’ Organization, which represents 34 First Nations communities.
January 30, 2023
First Nations want seat at table when PM, premiers talk health care
Winnipeg Sun
A meeting scheduled to take place in Ottawa on Feb. 7, will see the 13 premiers meet face to face with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on health care funding, as provinces and territories look to get a bigger cut of the annual Canada Health Transfer. But during a Monday media conference in Winnipeg, Southern Chiefs’ Organization (SCO) Grand Chief Jerry Daniels gathered with several other First Nations leaders and lambasted both the federal government and the provinces for not inviting any First Nations leadership to the meeting.
January 30, 2023
First Nations leaders seek voice in health-care talks
Brandon Sun
Frustration with the provincial and federal government was palpable on Monday during a media conference the Southern Chiefs’ Organization held to discuss grave concerns over Indigenous health care and exclusion from health care-related talks with the federal government.
January 30, 2023
Land and culture will feature in SCO addictions programs, says grand chief
Winnipeg Sun
In a Wednesday media release, Southern Chiefs Organization (SCO) Grand Chief Jerry Daniels announced that the SCO has introduced a new Harm Reduction Program, and a new Land-Based Healing Fund. The Harm Reduction Program will assist those who struggle with addictions and keep people safe by offering “positive change through minimizing harms associated with substance use.”
January 25, 2023
Indigenous people need control of their own water authorities, says SCO grand chief
Winnipeg Sun
Indigenous leaders in Manitoba are calling on the federal government to do more to respect the basic human rights of Indigenous people living in Canada after the group Human Rights Watch released their 2022 report on issues affecting human rights and Indigenous people.
January 18, 2023
Today is the First Ever National Ribbon Skirt Day
730CKDM
Grand Chief of the Southern Chiefs Organization, Jerry Daniels, said, "While the significance of the ribbon skirt is well known by many First Nations citizens, the events that led to the creation of this day clearly show there is much learning to be done about the sacredness and ceremonial importance of ribbon skirts.
January 4, 2023
Orange Santa Returns to nine southern First Nations in Manitoba
Global News
Orange Santa is returning for a second season to make holiday wishes come true for thousands of children in nine southern First Nations in Manitoba, the Southern Chiefs’ Organization (SCO) announced Saturday. “The timing of these visits could not be better, with so many heavy issues impacting our citizens and Nations over the last few weeks,” said SCO Grand Chief Jerry Daniels.”
December 17, 2022
First Nations leaders want Winnipeg police chief to resign for not searching landfill
RMO Today
First Nations leaders in Manitoba are calling for the resignation of Winnipeg's police chief after the force decided not to search a landfill for the remains of two Indigenous women believed to be the victims of an alleged serial killer.
December 8, 2022
Communities left grieving after 4 Indigenous women are believed to have been killed by serial killer
CTV News
Community members are honouring and remembering the four Indigenous women who are believed to have been killed at the hands of a serial killer. SCO Grand Chief Jerry Daniels said he is “extremely distressed” by the news of these deaths. “On behalf of SCO, I extend our deep condolences to the families, friends, and those who loved these four women,” he said.
December 2, 2022
Indigenous women gather to discuss roles as community leaders
Winnipeg Sun
The Southern Chiefs Organization (SCO) is hosting the Women’s Gathering on Nation Rebuilding event Monday and Tuesday at the Victoria Inn in Winnipeg, an event that is bringing Indigenous women together to discuss their roles as leaders, and as nation and community builders.
November 28, 2022
SCO looking for public input for justice reform
Winnipeg Sun
First Nations leaders in southern Manitoba are looking for public feedback as they continue to seek reforms, while Indigenous people continue to over-represent those involved in the criminal justice system and those who are behind bars in this province.
November 24, 2022
SCO survey to examine First Nations involvment with justice system in Manitoba
Global News
An organization representing First Nations across southern Manitoba says it’s looking for feedback about the justice system from an Indigenous perspective. The Southern Chiefs’ Organization (SCO) said Tuesday that it’s conducting an online survey to address the overrepresentation of First Nations, Métis and Inuit people in the justice system, as well as focusing on issues of systemic discrimination.
November 22, 2022
State of the Nation: Indigenous Business in Manitoba
Manitoba Inc.
The SCO represents 34 First Nations in the province, encompassing 90,000 people, or about 10 per cent of all Indigenous people in Canada. The redevelopment of the Hudson’s Bay Company building on the corner of Portage Avenue and Memorial Boulevard will play a crucial role in changing those odds. The multi-million-dollar project will include affordable housing, assisted living for elders, a health and wellness centre, two restaurants (including a rebooted Paddlewheel, the long-time staple on the top floor at The Bay), a museum and space to honour both the survivors and victims of residential schools.
CBC News
A two-day event in Brandon this week helped more than 400 First Nations people in southwestern Manitoba obtain status cards, which can be essential in proving their eligibility for certain benefits and rights. "It's easier because we have the help that we need here and they can explain things."
October 29, 2022
Converting office buildings to hybrid spaces, multiuse facilities, key to downtown planning
The Globe and Mail
Earlier this year, Hudson’s Bay Co. gifted its flagship store in downtown Winnipeg to the Southern Chiefs’ Organization (SCO), in what has been praised as the largest act of corporate reconciliation in Canada.
October 18, 2022
New Jordan's Principle co-ordinator will help First Nations students in Brandon find success
CBC News
A southwestern Manitoba school division and the Southern Chiefs' Organization say they're working together to improve outcomes for its First Nation students by hiring a Jordan's Principle co-ordinator for the Brandon School Division. Joni Wilson is the Jordan's Principle and wellness services lead with the Southern Chiefs' Organization. She says the goal is to keep expanding the program across the province.
October 14, 2022
Free Press
The historic Bay building, at Portage Avenue and Memorial Boulevard, has been an iconic presence in downtown Winnipeg for almost a century. As a young boy growing up in Long Plain First Nation, I can remember taking the bus from Portage la Prairie to Winnipeg with my grandmother to visit the Bay and shop on special occasions. These are fond memories.
October 11, 2022
Campaign to raise awareness of MMIWG
Brandon Sun
Honouring missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls is the motivation behind a newly launched campaign from the Southern Chiefs’ Organization, which represents 34 First Nations in southern Manitoba. On Tuesday, the National Day of Action for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG), the Southern Chiefs’ Organization (SCO) rolled out an awareness campaign to draw attention to the crisis.
October 5, 2022
Residential School Totem Pole raised in Assiniboine Park
CTV News
Visitors to Assiniboine Park can now learn more about the history of Canada's residential schools at a newly-erected totem pole that has been gifted to the Southern Chiefs Organization (SCO).
October 2, 2022
Southern Chiefs' Organization reveals totem pole in honour of residential school children
CBC News
The Southern Chiefs' Organization (SCO) held a ceremony to raise its new totem pole at Assiniboine Park on Sunday. Grand Chief Jerry Daniels said the Residential School Totem Pole, which came from British Columbia, has a place in Manitoba because of the significant impact residential schools had in the Prairie province.
October 2, 2022
Winnipeg's downtown is in trouble. Here's what some key stakeholders want to see
CBC News
An up-and-coming player in the downtown is the Southern Chiefs' Organization, which recently took over the former Hudson's Bay building on Portage Avenue. The organization plans to overhaul the historic building to include 300 affordable housing units, two restaurants, a public atrium, a rooftop garden, a museum and an art gallery.
September 23, 2022
Reimagining office space, Indigenous investment key to downtown Winnipeg's future, leaders say
CBC News
Down the street on Portage Avenue, — another historic building — the Bay — is set to be transformed into a mixed-use development with housing, a health and healing centre, a rooftop garden, restaurants, a museum and possibly a grocery store.
September 22, 2022
SCO survey focuses on trauma, healing
Brandon Sun
Leading up to the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on Sept. 30, the Southern Chiefs’ Organization is asking survivors of residential schools and their descendants to share their stories to guide future programming.
September 17, 2022
Programs, funding focus on healing trauma
Brandon Sun
Honouring residential school survivors and their families is the focus of new programming from the Southern Chiefs’ Organization aimed at healing trauma associated with a number of issues facing Indigenous people in Manitoba.
September 9, 2022
SCO launches healing programs to support residential school survivors
Winnipeg Sun
An organization that represents First Nations communities across southern Manitoba says it will now launch an awareness and education campaign, as it looks to bring more attention to the ongoing legacy and the often grim history of residential schools.
September 7, 2022
Digital program targets restorative justice
Brandon Sun
A new digital program launched by the Southern Chiefs’ Organization focuses on restorative justice and aims to fill a gap in mental health programs and services in Manitoba.
August 26, 2022
Southern Manitoba First Nations walk to raise support for new health authority
CBC News
For years, the Southern Chiefs' Organization has pushed to take more control over the delivery of health services to their people, and in June it announced it was working with the federal and Manitoba governments on the first steps toward developing its own health authority.
August 10, 2022
Province to partner on First Nations health authority
Free Press
The Manitoba government said it will partner with the Southern Chiefs’ Organization and the federal government to develop a First Nations health authority for the 34-member communities. In a joint release, the SCO said the Manitoba government will sign a tripartite agreement-in-principle to establish a southern First Nation health authority to launch later this year.
June 25, 2022
Southern Chiefs sign deal with province to create First Nation health authority
Global News
Manitoba’s Southern Chiefs’ Organization has signed a deal with the province to create a southern First Nation health authority that will launch later this year. Grand Chief Jerry Daniels says the deal will apply to 34 member bands.
June 25, 2022
First Nations health authority to launch in Manitoba this year: Southern Chiefs' Organization
CBC News
Three years after taking the first steps toward transforming health care delivery for the people it represents, the Southern Chiefs' Organization is on the verge of establishing its own health authority in Manitoba. In a joint news release on Friday, the SCO, along with the provincial and federal governments, announced Manitoba has committed to developing an agreement-in-principle to formalize the commitment of all three parties to a working relationship.
June 24, 2022
CBC News
The second agreement is with the Southern Chiefs Organization, and it details the first stages of help Winnipeg will give to redeveloping the former Hudson's Bay building downtown.
June 23, 2022
Province reaffirms commitment to reconciliation over residential schools
Winnipeg Free Press
Smoke from burning sage drifted on the strong southern wind and through the canopy of trees rooted firmly in front of the former Portage residential school on Long Plain First Nation. On Wednesday, the three-storey brick building, converted into a museum that memorializes the experience of residential school survivors, served as the backdrop for a ceremony to transfer $2.5 million from the Manitoba government to seven Indigenous organizations.
June 15, 2022
Canada colonial icon returned to Indigenous hands
Christian Science Monitor
After the Hudson’s Bay Co. department store shuttered its hulking, 650,000-plus-square-foot building in downtown Winnipeg in 2020, Peatr Thomas was asked to replicate one of his murals in the empty windows. This spring HBC, now a holding company that owns businesses and investments including Saks Fifth Avenue, transferred the building to the SCO.
June 2, 2022
Worst flooding Peguis First Nation community has seen
City News
It’s the worst flooding the Peguis Frist Nation has seen, but could it have been avoided? According to several studies done over the years, the community identified many options to address the reoccurring flooding issue.
May 20, 2022
What Peguis First Nation leaders say needs to happen to end flooding issues
CTV News
Speaking to reporters on Friday, Peguis Chief Glenn Hudson and Grand Chief Jerry Daniels of the Southern Chiefs’ Organization, called on the two levels of government to invest in permanent infrastructure to keep the community safe from flooding.
May 20, 2022
Chiefs call for permanent protection for Peguis First Nation after historic flood
CBC News
Peguis First Nation Chief Glenn Hudson called on the federal and provincial governments to put jurisdictional issues aside and fund permanent flood protection for the community following this spring's historic inundation.
May 20, 2022
SCO, Corpell's partner to launch new water bottles
Winnipeg Sun
A new partnership has seen a line of water bottles land on Manitoba store shelves, and those who created the bottles hope they will create more of an understanding and acknowledgment of the horrible legacy of residential schools.
April 30, 2022
A Winnipeg Landmark rich in Symbolism Comes Under Indigenous Control
The New York Times
The Hudson’s Bay Company has turned over its former flagship store to an Indigenous group with big ambitions for the space.
April 30, 2022
Historic Hudson's Bay building in downtown Winnipeg transferred to Southern Chiefs' Organization
APTN
The Hudson’s Bay Company is transferring ownership of its historic flagship store in Winnipeg to First Nations leadership after the iconic building was shut down in November of 2020. The Hudson’s Bay building, which opened its doors in 1926, will be taken over by the Southern Chiefs’ Organization (SCO) and redeveloped as a symbol of reconciliation.
April 22, 2022
Hudson's Bay gifting flagship downtown Winnipeg store to First Nations group
The Globe and Mail
The Hudson’s Bay Co. is gifting one of its grandest buildings to the Southern Chiefs’ Organization – a group representing 34 Manitoba First Nations – in a transfer of assets that’s being dubbed a model of economic reconciliation.
April 21, 2022
Hudson's Bay Transfers Ownership of Store to Winnipeg First Nations
Toronto Star
On April 22, 2022 the Hudson’s Bay Company announced that it had transferred ownership of its Downtown Winnipeg heritage building to the Southern Chiefs’ Organization (SCO), who have a “visionary” plan for the future of the site.
April 22, 2022
'Historic and monumental' step taken as Winnipeg's Bay building handed to First Nations group
CBC News
Winnipeg's downtown Hudson's Bay building, which turns 100 years old in four years, began a rebirth on Friday as the company rooted in a fur trading past with Indigenous people transferred the property to a First Nations group.
April 22, 2022
SCO's plan for Hudson's Bay building redevelopment
CTV News
Watch now
April 29, 2022
Hudson's Bay calls donation of Winnipeg building an act of reconciliation
BNN
North America's oldest company with fur-trading roots is transferring what was one of its flagship stores to a First Nations group in what is being praised as an example of reconciliation in action. Animal pelts, blankets and other items were exchanged in a lengthy ceremony Friday marking the handover of the Hudson's Bay Co. building in Winnipeg. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, Manitoba Premier Heather Stefanson and chiefs from across southern Manitoba attended.
April 22, 2022
SCO's Project to Reimagine Hudson's Bay Heritage Building in Downtown Winnipeg
Financial Post
“Today can be another step forward to a brighter future, one that reflects what our ancestors dreamed of,” stated Grand Chief Jerry Daniels. “This project is an act of reconciliation and is our vision to revitalize the heart of Winnipeg’s downtown, for the benefit of all, in line with our traditional, holistic approach to sustainable economic development.”
April 22, 2022
New Indigenous-led council to advise residential school burial searches
CTV News
Searches at the burial sites for children who died at residential schools in Manitoba will have Indigenous leaders to guide them. Southern Chiefs' Organization Grand Chief Jerry Daniels will be co-chairing a new council with the Province of Manitoba. The council will offer advice as people search residential school burial sites.
March 23, 2022
CBC News
The organization that represents First Nations in southern Manitoba is calling for justice reform after an Anishinaabe woman suffered repeated racist and misogynistic verbal attacks during a trial last year. The Southern Chiefs' Organization is calling for an official complaint to be made against Manitoba provincial court Judge Samuel Raposo, who didn't intervene or address repeated slurs uttered by a witness during the April 2021 hearing.
March 15, 2022
APTN News
The Southern Chiefs Organization (SCO) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Winnipeg’s largest school division to ensure First Nations students have access to the support and resources they need to succeed. The MOU signed by the Winnipeg School Division (WSD) and SCO will see a new Jordan’s Principle coordinator work with First Nation students.
March 7, 2022
SCO launches Jordan's Principle post in WSD
Winnipeg Free Press
FIRST Nations students enrolled in Manitoba’s largest school district can now contact a designated employee with concerns about racism in the classroom and barriers to course achievement. The Southern Chiefs’ Organization and Winnipeg School Division have partnered to launch a facilitator position that will support learners and policy change.
March 4, 2022
New partnership aims to ensure equal access to supports for First Nations students in Winnipeg
CBC News
Winnipeg School Division and Southern Chiefs' Organization appoint new Jordan's Principle co-ordinator. Winnipeg's largest school division and the Southern Chiefs' Organization say they are working together on a new partnership intended to ensure First Nations students have access to the support and resources they need to succeed in school.
March 2, 2022
Manitoba looking into baby name registry changes after Indigenous couple's name denied
Winnipeg Sun
The Grand Chief of the Southern Chiefs Organization (SCO) says he was outraged when he heard that Indigenous parents were recently denied the opportunity to register their newborn child’s chosen name, and he now wants to see immediate changes to how birth names are registered in this province.
February 23, 2022
SCO launches Mobile Crisis Response Team
Brandon Sun
The Southern Chiefs’ Organization has launched its new Mobile Crisis Response Team, a project designed to support First Nations experiencing crises in their communities. "This is a 24-hour support system … It’s 24-7 prevention, crisis response and continuation of care," said Southern Chiefs’ Organization (SCO) Grand Chief Jerry Daniels. "We’ve got a very knowledgeable team with hundreds of years combined experience in the mental health field."
February 21, 2022
'This is very important': SCO launches new crisis response team
CTV News
The Southern Chiefs' Organization (SCO) is launching a new initiative to help those who are in crisis. The organization is starting a Mobile Crisis Response Team (MCRT) program, which will feature people who are trained in trauma-informed practice and will be able to offer crisis response, intervention, and case coordination services.
February 16, 2022
Two Indigenous counter-protesters detained by Winnipeg police
CTV News
The Southern Chiefs' Organization (SCO) wants answers from the Winnipeg Police Service after two Indigenous counter-protesters were detained by officers. The SCO said two people were detained by police under the Intoxicated Person Detention Act after they were seen standing and blocking traffic at times over the weekend.
February 14, 2022
SCO raises concerns over Tory choice for interim leader
Winnipeg Sun
A First Nations leader in Manitoba is expressing concerns about the recent naming of Candice Bergen as interim leader of the federal Conservatives because he says the MP has in the past shown “questionable judgment” and a willingness to be “associated with racism.”
February 8, 2022
Southern chiefs decry 'unacceptable' delay in rapid test supply
Winnipeg Free Press
Federally supplied rapid tests are finally headed to Manitoba reserves, months after southern chiefs say Ottawa lost the supplies they’d requested at the onset of the Omicron variant. “It is absolutely unacceptable,” Grand Chief Jerry Daniels told the Free Press.
February 4, 2022
Southern Chiefs' Organization delivers PPE to 34 member nations
Brandon Sun
The Southern Chiefs’ Organization has begun the deployment of essential medical supplies across southwest Manitoba to help nations endure the latest wave of COVID-19.
January 28, 2022
APTN News
The Southern Chiefs Organization (SCO) is “demanding a thorough investigation” into the death of James Flatfoot at the Stony Mountain institution which is operated by the Correctional Service of Canada (CSC).
January 26, 2022
Manitoba Indigenous leaders, advocates hope federal compensation will help with healing
Global News
Indigenous advocates in Manitoba say they hope the federal government’s $40-billion agreement in principle to compensate First Nations children taken from their homes on reserve will help bring some healing to those who have suffered pain and trauma.
January 4, 2022
Winnipeg Free Press
Just in time for the holidays, Southern Chiefs compile First Nation shopping guide
December 17, 2021
Orange Santa delivers Every Child Matters message to First Nations in Manitoba
CBC News
Santa has traded in his traditional red colours for an orange suit to bring a special message to First Nations children in Manitoba: every child matters. "I explained to everybody why I'm wearing orange … because you all matter," said Orange Santa, who stopped by Roseau River Anishinabe First Nation on Monday. "All children matter, no matter what race you are. Every child matters.''
December 14, 2021
Orange Santa campaign shares the love
Winnipeg Free Press
Orange Santa wants to spread the message: every child deserves to feel special at Christmas. As such, the new Southern Chiefs’ Organization holiday campaign will deliver nearly 3,000 gifts to children across 10 Manitoba First Nations.
December 13, 2021
SCO working to break down barriers for young business developers
Winnipeg Sun
The Southern Chiefs Organization (SCO) say a newly signed agreement will help young First Nations entrepreneurs in this province to succeed and prosper, by working to break down systemic barriers to success. Advertisement Article content “We know First Nation business owners have to overcome systemic obstacles,” SCO Grand Chief Jerry Daniels said in a press release. “I am confident this new partnership will help to break down those barriers and biases.”
December 8, 2021
Service offers status card renewal replacement
Brandon Sun
The Southern Chiefs’ Organization has launched a new service designed to help First Nation citizens in southern Manitoba renew or replace their status cards. The new status card renewal or replacement service will include trained pathfinders offering support to Status First Nation citizens when navigating the application process.
December 4, 2021
Southern Chiefs helping First Nations Manitobans navigate status card process
Global News
The Southern Chiefs’ Organization is helping First Nation Manitobans who need to renew or replace their status cards. The organization’s Grand Chief, Jerry Daniels, made the announcement on Monday. “Navigating the federal government’s renewal or replacement process for status cards can be challenging, and it involves paperwork that can be complex,” said Daniels.
November 29, 2021
'Canada must own up': Manitoba First Nations leaders call for national inquiry into Sixties Scoop
CBC News
First Nations leaders in Manitoba are adding their voices to the call for a federal inquiry into a dark history known as the Sixties Scoop. Beginning in the mid-1950s and lasting until the early 1990s, a series of policies enacted by provincial child welfare authorities saw thousands of First Nations and Inuit children taken from their homes and families, placed in foster homes, and eventually adopted out to white families from across Canada and the United States.
November 1, 2021
Brandon Sun
Yesterday, the Southern Chiefs’ Organization released the results of its survey regarding missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls. The organization launched an anonymous survey in May to identify First Nations’ priorities about the final report of the national inquiry into MMIWG and the report’s 231 calls for justice.
October 5, 2021
More action needed on calls for justice, survivor says on MMIWG Awareness Day
CTV News
It’s been more than two years since 231 Calls for Justice were released, but advocates and First Nations leaders say not enough progress has been made to help stop the genocide identified by the National Inquiry.
October 4, 2021
How you can get involved on the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
CTV News
With the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation next week, the Southern Chiefs' Organization (SCO) is calling on Manitobans to reflect and honour those who were forced through the residential school system.
September 24, 2021
'I am First Nation and I vote' campaign aims to get Manitoba First Nations voters to the polls
CBC News
First Nations leaders in Manitoba are calling on every eligible First Nations person in the province to get out and vote in next week's federal election. "Get your cousins to vote, get your aunties and uncles to vote, and make sure that you're being heard because we need you. Leadership cannot do it alone — we need you to help us," said Grand Chief Jerry Daniels of the Southern Chiefs' Organization.
September 16, 2021
Southern chiefs express disappointment in premier meeting
Winnipeg Free Press
Manitoba southern First Nations say they’re not impressed with new, temporary Premier Kelvin Goertzen, arguing the PC party's more collaborative tone needs to translate into actually changing its policies.
September 13, 2021
First Nations in southern Manitoba start Indian Residential Schools solidarity campaign
Global News
An organization representing First Nations in southern Manitoba is starting a month-long campaign to commemorate and offer solidarity to those who were affected by residential schools.
September 1, 2021
Round dance organized to celebrate Brian Pallister's departure from premier's office
CBC News
Dozens of people took part in a round dance outside the Manitoba legislature Thursday that was organized to celebrate Brian Pallister's impending departure from the premier's office.
August 14, 2021
Waywayseecappo gets formal apology
Brandon Sun
A Westman First Nation received an apology on Wednesday that was owed to them for 140 years.
August 12, 2021
Manitoba Indigenous groups welcome Brian Pallister's exit as premier
Global News
Tuesday’s announcement that Manitoba Premier Brian Pallister will step down and not seek re-election as leader of the province has generated a lot of discussion about Manitoba’s future.
August 11, 2021
Manitoba Indigenous leaders celebrate Pallister's departure
Winnipeg Free Press
Indigenous leaders are celebrating after Brian Pallister announced Tuesday he's stepping down as Manitoba's premier and leader of the Progressive Conservatives. Pallister's retirement "couldn’t come any sooner," said Jerry Daniels, grand chief of the Southern Chiefs’ Organization, which represents 34 Manitoba First Nations.
August 10, 2021
'The damage has already been done': Pallister's apology not enough for Man. Indigenous leaders
CTV News
In Tuesday’s public health update, Premier Brian Pallister was asked about comments he made in July, after protesters toppled two statues on the Legislature grounds during a protest over the deaths of Indigenous children at residential schools.
August 4, 2021
Gaathering marks 150 years since signing of Treaty 1
APTN National News
Officials gathered Tuesday at Lower Fort Garry to mark the 150th anniversary of the signing of Treaty 1 with the Crown. Chiefs from across Turtle Island took part in the ceremony at the fort located about 30 km north of Winnipeg on the banks of the Red River.
August 3, 2021
Archdiocese apologizes after priest accuses residential school survivors of lying
CTV News
A Winnipeg archdiocese will no longer allow a Catholic priest to preach publicly or teach after he suggested during a sermon that residential school survivors lied to get settlement money.
July 29, 2021
Pallister resignation would 'be good for Manitoba'
Winnipeg Free Press
Manitoba’s grand chiefs are calling on Premier Brian Pallister to resign, as his party tries to quell frustration over ahistorical residential-school comments he and his new Indigenous reconciliation minister have made.
July 19, 2021
MLA Clarke breaks silence, says her voice was 'not being heard' by Pallister
Winnipeg Free Press
MLA Eileen Clarke has broken her silence about quitting Premier Brian Pallister's cabinet, saying she left due to the premier’s comments on Indigenous people and his refusal to listen to his cabinet ministers.
July 15, 2021
Mountie who filed systemic racism class action against RCMP reacts to vets association post
APTN National News
A former Manitoba Mountie who filed a class action against the RCMP alleging systemic racism in the force tells APTN News she is troubled by comments contained in an opinion piece recently posted to the website of the RCMP Veterans’ Association.
July 14, 2021
Retired Mountie explains why he blew whistle on RCMP Veteran's Association post
APTN National News
When retired RCMP sergeant Bruce Pitt-Payne first saw a post on the RCMP Veterans’ Association website called “My Canada – is it Your Canada?” he said he thought it would be about not burning down churches and stopping vandalism in the wake of unmarked graves found at residential schools across the country.
July 12, 2021
Simon first Indigenous governor general
Brandon Sun
Mary Simon is the first Indigenous person to become Canada's governor general.
July 7, 2021
Groups taking over Indigenous Court Workers Program
Brandon Sun
Indigenous rights holder organizations will now have control over the Indigenous Court Workers Program in a move the province says is aimed at reconciliation and improving outcomes in the justice system. The Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak, Manitoba Metis Federation, the Southern Chiefs’ Organization and the Island Lake Tribal Council will now be responsible for administering the program, Justice Minster Cameron Friesen announced Tuesday.
June 30, 2021
Manitoba to transition court workers program to Indigenous organizations
Global News
Responsibility for Manitoba’s Indigenous Court Workers Program is being transitioned to four Indigenous-led organizations, the province announced Tuesday. Justice Minister Cameron Friesen said shifting the program, which helps Indigenous people navigate the court system, to Indigenous rights-holders is another step toward reconciliation.
June 29, 2021
CTV News
Many in Manitoba are reacting to another discovery of an unmarked gravesite at a former residential school in Canada. Cowessess First Nation in Saskatchewan said it has found 751 unmarked gravesites after ground-penetrating radar was used at the Marieval Indian Residential School site, which started back on June 2.
June 24, 2021
'The truth is finally being reavealed': Manitoba grand chiefs react to Cowessess announcement
APTN News
The discovery of 751 unmarked graves near a former residential school by Cowessess First Nation in Saskatchewan was felt by many across the country and around the world. The grand chiefs of the Southern Chiefs Organization (SCO) and Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak (MKO) held a joint press conference to reflect on the news, which was announced moments earlier.
June 24, 2021
Manitoba children attended Sask. residential school where unmarked graves found
Winnipeg Free Press
Manitoba children are likely buried among the potential 751 unmarked graves identified at a former Saskatchewan residential school this week, as the country braces for more burial sites to be uncovered. "We are not asking for pity, but we are asking for understanding," Cowessess Chief Cadmus Delorme said Thursday, as he revealed that a ground-radar search had found evidence of hundreds of Indigenous children buried in unmarked graves.
June 24, 2021
Brandon event mourns residential school's victims
Winnipeg Free PRess
Themes of truth, love and healing dominated an event to honour residential school survivors at the site of the former Brandon Indian Residential School. The Monday event, called Prayer for the Children, was held at the property in conjunction with National Indigenous Peoples Day, to mourn the children who died at the residential school and similar sites across the country. The event was hosted by Sioux Valley Dakota Nation and the Southern Chiefs’ Organization.
June 22, 2021
Indigenous liaison boosts supports at vaccine site
The Carillon
A Steinbach nursing student is helping to make the city’s vaccination site more accessible to First Nation, Metis, and Inuit clients. Victoria Hickes is one of 22 Indigenous liaisons hired by the Southern Chiefs’ Organization to work at vaccination sites across Manitoba this summer.
June 12, 2021
Manitoba MP to call on Ottawa to recognize residential schools as genocide
Global News
A Manitoba MP intends to call on Ottawa to formally recognize what happened at residential schools as an act of genocide. NDP MP Leah Gazan, who represents Winnipeg Centre, says she will ask for unanimous consent in the House of Commons following question period on Thursday.
June 9, 2021
Residential school tragedy renews calls for name change
Winnipeg Free Press
DEMAND is growing to remove the Bishop Grandin name from a Winnipeg greenway and boulevard, as outrage spreads across Canada over the tragic toll of residential schools. The City of Winnipeg said it received its first calls to rename the local destinations in 2018, due to Bishop Vital-Justin Grandin’s (1829-1902) support for the residential school system.
June 1, 2021
Manitoba First Nations react with shock, sadness at discovery of remains at B.C. residential school
Winnipeg Sun
Manitoba First Nations leaders responded with shock, sadness and sincerest condolences, after learning of the discovery of the remains of 215 children on a former residential school site in Kamloops, B.C.
May 30, 2021
Manitoba ICU patient who died before transfer to Ontario identified
CTV News
The ICU patient from Manitoba that died after an attempted medical transfer to Ontario has been identified. The Southern Chiefs' Organization (SCO) said the woman who died was 31-year-old Krystal Mousseau, a mother of two from the Ebb and Flow First Nation.
May 27, 2021
Manitoba First Nations leader lashes out at Pallister over COVID failure
Winnipeg Free Press
"The blame for this disaster rests squarely on the shoulders of Premier Pallister and his cabinet," Southern Chiefs Grand Chief Jerry Daniels wrote in a Wednesday news release. "They have let political interests interfere and not followed the science, and that has had deadly consequences."
May 19, 2021
Indigenous influencers tagged for pro-vaccine campaign
Winnipeg Free Press
The campaign will use social media platforms and will partner with First Nations leaders and influencers, people with significant followings on social media platforms, such as Champagne and musician Lenard Sumner.
May 12, 2021
Residential school survivor and author Ted Fontaine has died
CTV News
Theodore (Ted) Fontaine died at the age of 79-years-old. The former chief of Sagkeeng First Nation was among the authors of a book titled 'Did You See Us' which shed light on the life children faced at an urban residential school in Winnipeg.
May 11, 2021
Manitoba grand chief calls for public inquiry into in-custody death of William Ahmo
CBC News
The organization representing First Nations in southern Manitoba is calling for a public inquiry into the death of William Ahmo, who died while in custody at Headingley Correctional Centre in February.
May 6, 2021
Winnipeg Free Press
The official narrative of what happened to Will Ahmo — an Indigenous inmate at Headingley Correctional Centre — and how he ended up in a Winnipeg hospital on life support with brain and spinal injuries, is virtually non-existent.
May 4, 2021
Budget billions seek to address history of hardship
Winnipeg Free Press
The federal government's plan to engineer a booming COVID-19 recovery involves channeling billions of dollars to Indigenous communities to rectify decades of socio-economic gaps, and assert autonomy in Manitoba.
April 25, 2021
APTN News
The families and advocates of missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls (MMIWG) are still waiting for a national action plan to implement recommendations from a national inquiry that ended two years ago.
April 9, 2021
Health region responds to racism survey
Brandon Sun
The majority of First Nations people have experienced racism in Manitoba’s health-care system, according to the results of a survey issued by the Southern Chiefs’ Organization. The organization released the report Friday in advance of International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination the following day.
March 23, 2021
Many First Nations people in Manitoba experienced racism while accessing care – survey – VIDEO
APTN News
Seventy-two per cent First Nations people polled in Manitoba said they experienced racist treatment first-hand when accessing care – while 80 per cent have witnessed it happen to a loved ones. That’s according to a new survey by the Southern Chiefs' Organization, which suggests a pattern of discrimination, neglect and even abuse. SCO Grand Chief Jerry Daniels says the findings are appalling.
March 22, 2021
Winnipeg Sun
A new report on experiences of systemic racism in Manitoba’s health care system was released based on findings from the Southern Chiefs’ Organization’s (SCO) Survey on Racism in Health Care. The survey consisted of nine closed-ended and two open-ended questions and was shared online for six weeks in December 2020.
March 20, 2021
Winnipeg Sun
The Southern Chiefs’ Organization (SCO) is calling answers and a thorough investigation following Winnipeg Police’s response to an Indigenous woman who was in mental distress and attempted to take her own life in an incident First Nations leaders were calling “disturbing”.
March 20, 2021
Calls for investigation – VIDEO
CityNews
The Southern Chiefs’ Organization is demanding answers from the Winnipeg Police Service after an alleged incident took place between an Indigenous woman in distress and police officers. Alex Karpa reports.
March 20, 2021
First Nations advocate accuses Winnipeg police of mistreating suicidal woman in bridge incident
CBC News
An Indigenous woman was mistreated by Winnipeg police during a mental health crisis earlier this week, an organization representing First Nations people in southern Manitoba says, and they are asking for a full investigation.
March 20, 2021
Peter Nygard has a phone in jail cell for constant contact with legal team, court documents reveal
CBC News
Advocate says that kind of access to outside world not available to everyone Crystal Brown, a community justice development coordinator at Southern Chiefs Organization, which includes 34 First Nations, was frustrated to learn about the accommodations Nygard is afforded behind bars. She said having phone access 16 hours a day shows the different treatment Nygard is getting compared to others in jail.
March 18, 2021
Groups line up to fight Manitoba's proposed anti-protest law
Winnipeg Free Press
A proposed Manitoba law that would restrict the rights of protesters will likely face a court challenge, Indigenous and environmental groups say. Southern Chiefs’ Organization Grand Chief Jerry Daniels said Tuesday he believes the government was targeting Indigenous protests when it drafted the bill. "It’s a strategy, obviously, to silence the voices and the views of First Nations people who have been excluded for a very long time from infrastructure strategy and investments in terms of our partnership on a government-to-government basis," Daniels said in an interview.
March 17, 2021
Manitoba Grand Chief forsees legal challenges to critical infrastructure bill
Global News
The Grand Chief of the Southern Chiefs Organization says legal challenges to a bill which clamps down on protesting around “critical infrastructure” are almost inevitable. “We have to challenge it at every aspect,” Grand Chief Jerry Daniels told 680 CJOB Tuesday, one day after Bill 57 was revealed at the Manitoba legislature.
March 16, 2021
SCO concerned about the impact of proposed education changes on Indigenous students
CTV News
The head of the Southern Chiefs' Organization (SCO) is criticizing the Manitoba government’s new education bill, saying it does not address the systemic issues First Nations students in Manitoba are facing in the classroom.
March 16, 2021
First Nation leaders appaled by lack of progress to improve child welfare system
Winnipeg Sun
First Nation leaders are appalled by the recent findings in the Still Waiting: Investigating Child Maltreatment after the Phoenix Sinclair Inquiry, released last week by the Manitoba Advocate for Children and Youth (MACY). Southern Chiefs’ Organization (SCO) urges the province to prioritize the implementation of the five recommendations from the recent report as well as the previous 62 recommendations on improving the child welfare system.
March 16, 2021
Southern Chiefs Organization speaks out on child welfare report
CTV News
The Southern Chiefs' Organization (SCO) is speaking out after a report by the Manitoba Advocate for Children and Youth found that child maltreatment deaths continue to be a significant concern in the province. SCO Grand Chief Jerry Daniels is calling on the provincial government to immediately prioritize the implementation of the five recommendations from the report.
March 13, 2021
First Nations stepped up to tackle COVID-19 since first confirmed case a year ago
Winnipeg Sun
First Nations have stepped up tremendously since the first presumptive positive case of COVID-19 was confirmed by Manitoba a year ago. “Today, we mourn the loss of 150 First Nation citizens, and grieve with their families and loved ones,” said Grand Chief Jerry Daniels of the Southern Chiefs’ Organization (SCO).
March 13, 2021
Manitoba's proposed smoking ban 'intrusion' on jurisdiction of First Nations say chiefs
APTN News
The Manitoba government has introduced a bill that would see smoking exemptions in First Nations communities revoked. Indoor public smoking has been banned for a number of years in Manitoba but the ban hasn’t applied to First Nations because they fall under federal jurisdiction. Southern Chiefs Organization Grand Chief Jerry Daniels said First Nation communities already have limits on smoking in their communities.
March 12, 2021
Stony inmate complained of opiate withdrawal before death: lawyer
Winnipeg Free Press
One day before he was found dead inside Stony Mountain penitentiary, Dwayne Simard told his lawyer he was suffering from opiate withdrawal and thought he was dying. Simard is one of two Sagkeeng First Nation men to die in custody in less than a month. The Southern Chiefs Organization has called for a public inquiry.
March 9, 2021
Hollow Water First Nation hangs red dresses to honour Jana Williams
CBC News
Hollow Water First Nation is coming together to support the family of Jana Williams, 28, whose body was found last week on Alfred Avenue near the Red River in Winnipeg, by hanging red dresses in her honour and organizing a candlelight vigil. Jerry Daniels, grand chief of Southern Chiefs' Organization Inc. (SCO), described what happened to Williams as "absolutely appalling" in an interview with CBC News.
March 9, 2021
Province holding back long-awaited Police Services bill
Winnipeg Sun
The provincial government is holding back their long-awaited Police Services Amendment Act. Jerry Daniels, Grand Chief of the Southern Chiefs’ Organization, said the culture needs to be addressed, including sensitivity training and zero tolerance for racism and undertones. He said the issues go beyond just policing and justice, but they need to see tangible action taken.
March 9, 2021
"Welcome development" as inquest called in police-involved fatal shooting of teen
Winnipeg Sun
The leader of the Southern Chiefs Organization (SCO) is pleased that Manitoba’s Chief Medical Examiner has ordered an inquest into the death of 16-year-old Eishia Hudson, who was shot and killed by a Winnipeg Police officer last April.
March 6, 2021
First Nations vaccination visits to start mid-March
Brandon Sun
Vaccination teams will begin visiting First Nations communities in Manitoba in mid-March, public health officials announced Friday. In a statement to the media, Southern Chiefs’ Organization Grand Chief Jerry Daniels applauded the announcement. "This announcement is what we have been waiting to hear," said Daniels.
March 6, 2021
Deaths in custody spark call for public inquiry
Winnipeg Free Press
The Southern Chiefs' Organization is calling for a public inquiry, and its leader has criticized the independent investigation process, after the deaths of two incarcerated Sagkeeng First Nation men in less than a month.
March 4, 2021
Survey launched on racism in policing – VIDEO
CTV News
Interview with Grand Chief Daniels
March 1, 2021
Anishinaabe and Dakota chiefs call for inquiry over revelations in Broken Promises investigation
Global News
An advocacy organization representing Anishinaabe and Dakota communities in Manitoba is calling for an inquiry into how the federal government reviews major infrastructure projects on First Nations. The Southern Chiefs’ Organization (SCO), which represents 34 First Nations in the province, says federal officials often force First Nations to work with sub-standard firms in order “to save a few bucks,” especially on key water projects.
February 28, 2021
Southern Chiefs' Organization launches survey to gauge racism in policing in Manitoba
Toronto Star
A survey on experiences of racism in policing by the Southern Chiefs’ Organization (SCO) was launched to mark Indigenous Justice Awareness Day. The survey is open to all Manitoba First Nations and will report on experiences of racism when dealing with police services across the province.
February 27, 2021
Manitoba chiefs push Ottawa on use of 'sub-standard' contractors
Winnipeg Free Press
Manitoba chiefs say it’s time the Trudeau government put less emphasis on cost when fixing drinking-water systems, or they’ll keep falling into disrepair.
February 25, 2021
Family of Will Ahmo looking for answers into his death at Headingley Correctional Centre
APTN News
The family of a man who died after an altercation with correctional officers is calling for an independent investigation to be done regarding his death. William ‘Will’ Walter Ahmo, 45, from Sagkeeng First Nation north of Winnipeg died Sunday after what’s been called “an incident” with staff at the Headingley provincial jail just outside of Winnipeg.
February 17, 2021
'Our story is all too common': Family calls for inquest into death of inmate at Manitoba jail
CTV News
The family of William Walter Ahmo is speaking out after an incident involving corrections officers left him in hospital where he died a week later. They are calling for an inquest and an independent investigation into his death, a call echoed by the Southern Chiefs' Organization.
February 17, 2021
First Nations immunization site pops up in Winnipeg
Winnipeg Free Press
A pop-up COVID-19 vaccination site in Winnipeg has put its focus on immunizing First Nations health-care workers, knowledge keepers and traditional healers — a first of its kind in the province. "Yesterday’s site opening was the result of many hours of tireless work by a small group of dedicated staff, health experts and front-line workers. They had limited resources but their efforts have created something wonderful and life-saving," Grand Chief Jerry Daniels of the Southern Chiefs' Organization said Tuesday.
February 9, 2021
First Nations family advocate, chief question why newborns still being apprehended in Manitoba
CBC.ca
Grand Chief Jerry Daniels of the Southern Chiefs' Organization says despite the province's decision to end the widely criticized use of birth alerts, the child welfare system is still apprehending children — an archaic practice, he says, and something that should only happen after all other avenues have been exhausted.
February 7, 2021
Reserves that assert CFS autonomy not guaranteed tribunal-ordered funding: Ottawa
Winnipeg Free Press
The federal government says it won’t be bound by child-welfare funding obligations for reserves that assert their autonomy over foster care. Ottawa is instead asking First Nations to trust they will get enough cash.
February 4, 2021
First Nations, provincial leaders meet to explore circular economy
Winnipeg Sun
Leaders of the Collaborative Leadership Initiative (CLI) continue to pursue matters of protecting water, reducing waste and creating good jobs in an online conference, ‘Building Strong Communities: A Circular Approach.’
February 4, 2021
Winnipeg Sun
Manitoba public health officials have confirmed that an additional 1,200 doses of the Moderna vaccine have been made immediately available for further First Nations prioritizations. Doses will be provided to health-care workers in non-remote First Nations communities, First Nations alternative isolation accommodation (AIA) workers and traditional Healers and Knowledge Keepers.
February 1, 2021
No charges for Winnipeg officer who shot 16-year-old girl after police chase
CBC.ca
The father of an Indigenous teen killed by a Winnipeg police officer last April is criticizing a police watchdog report, which says no charges are recommended against the officer involved in the fatal shooting.
January 28, 2021
SCO welcomes Beyak's departure
Brandon Sun
The Southern Chiefs' Organization (SCO) says it welcomes the news Sen. Lynn Beyak is leaving the Red Chamber. Announcing her early retirement Monday, ahead of possible expulsion, Beyak said she stands by her controversial statements on residential schools.
January 27, 2021
Southern Chiefs Organization 'appalled' by what happened to Ojibway woman in Alberta hospital
APTN News
An organization representing 34 Anishinaabe and Dakota communities in Manitoba is speaking out after an APTN News story about how an Alberta hospital cared for Lillian Vanasse (Ashley), a member of the Sandy Bay Ojibway Nation. “The Southern Chiefs Organization (SCO) is appalled by the tragic death of Lillian Vanasse,: said SCO Grand Chief Jerry Daniels in a release sent out Tuesday. “The message is very clear and simple.”
January 26, 2021
Southern chiefs say Pallister's comments on Indigenous leadership are 'dangerous'
CTV News
The Southern Chiefs’ Organization (SCO) is denouncing comments made by Premier Brian Pallister, saying it is “dangerous” to blame Indigenous leaders for the high number of COVID-19 cases in northern Manitoba. On Thursday, Pallister made a comment regarding Peguis First Nation Chief Glenn Hudson’s decision to relax restrictions over the holidays and allow visitors in the community.
January 22, 2021
Several First Nations receiving Moderna vaccine
Brandon Sun
First Nations in Manitoba will receive 5,300 doses of the Moderna vaccine for immediate vaccination, according to a statement from Southern Chiefs’ Organization Grand Chief Jerry Daniels late Wednesday evening.
January 8, 2021
Manitoba shipping 5,300 vaccine doses to First Nations communities
Globalnews.ca
First Nations throughout Manitoba will be receiving doses of the Moderna vaccine as early as Thursday in an attempt to stem the tide of the COVID-19 pandemic, the province said.
January 7, 2021
Vaccines begin rolling out to First Nations communities in Manitoba – VIDEO
APTN News
The first doses of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine rolled out to First Nations communities in Manitoba this morning. Southern Chiefs’ Organization Grand Chief Jerry Daniels joined APTN News to talk about how these vaccines will roll out.
January 7, 2021
'It's a game-changer': Indigenous leaders encourage communities to line up for COVID-19 vaccine
CBC.ca
Grand Chief Jerry Daniels of the Southern Chiefs' Organization of Manitoba agrees on the importance of vaccination, especially for protecting elders and people with compromised immune systems.
January 5, 2021
CBCListen
Interview with Grand Chief Jerry Daniels; why the Moderna vaccine could be a game-changer for remote communities; how COVID-19 is threatening Uganda’s mountain gorillas; Canadian politicians.
January 5, 2021
Vaccine partnership building bridges between First Nations and Manitoba
Winnipeg Sun
Moderna COVID-19 vaccines are expected to arrive in Manitoba this week and 5,300 of the 7,300 will be made immediately available to First Nations.
January 4, 2021
As 1st Manitobans get COVID-19 vaccine, questions linger about distribution, access on First Nations
CBC.ca
Province needs to share decision making on vaccination plans with First Nations, says SCO grand chief. Indigenous people are disproportionately affected by COVID-19, but they were not first in line to get vaccinated when Manitobans started rolling up their sleeves on Wednesday.
December 16, 2020
Indigenous leaders take Manitoba child care funds issue to court
Winnipeg Free Press
Indigenous leaders are joining forces to push back on the Pallister government’s attempt to quash two unresolved lawsuits over the province’s clawback of around $338 million of federal funds meant for children in foster care.
December 16, 2020
Southern Chiefs, MMF launch legal action against provincial gov't over Bill 2
Winnipeg Sun
Monday marked the beginning of the Southern Chiefs’ Organization (SCO) and the Manitoba Métis Federation’s (MMF) legal battle against Manitoba’s Bill 2.
December 15, 2020
'We can make these decisions,' Peguis chief says about relaxed holiday COVID-19 restrictions
CBC.ca
"Peguis has taken a pretty proactive approach, long before the province started moving. I think they had to, and a lot of our communities had to," Grand Chief Jerry Daniels said.
December 15, 2020
Manitoba’s First Nations children face barriers in nearly every socioeconomic factor: report
Globalnews.ca
A damning new report shows First Nations children in Manitoba are facing inequalities in nearly every socioeconomic factor compared to other children.
December 10, 2020
NDP say Manitoba needs COVID-19 vaccine campaign to battle anti-vaxxers.
Winnipeg Sun
“We commend a political leader who listens to the First Peoples of Canada and we have to give credit when it is due,” said Daniels in a press release.
December 9, 2020
CBC.ca
Manitoba will receive extra doses of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine, expected to be approved by Health Canada soon, because of the higher proportion of First Nations people in the province.
December 8, 2020
SCO Grand Chief Daniels unleashes on Premier Pallister – VIDEO
CityNews
December 6, 2020
Southern Chiefs' Organization claims Pallister is fear mongering over COVID-19 distribution
Toronto Star
The Southern Chiefs’ Organization (SCO) has expressed that Manitoba Premier Brian Pallister has been fear-mongering over the distribution of the COVID-19 vaccine.
December 3, 2020
First Nations must be front of line for vaccine: minister
Winnipeg Free Press
Premier Brian Pallister’s concern that urban Indigenous people would inundate remote First Nations to get vaccinated for COVID-19, highlights the need to make that population a priority when the vaccine is released, the federal Liberals say.
December 2, 2020
APTN News
Recent comments made by Manitoba Premier Brian Pallister have some First Nations chiefs and organizations accusing the leader of fear mongering over the dispersal of the COVID-19 vaccine.
December 2, 2020
SCO makes urgent appeal to province about COVID spread in jails
Toronto Star
The Southern Chiefs’ Organization (SCO) is making an urgent appeal to the Manitoba Justice Minister Cliff Cullen to address concerns about the increase of COVID-19 infections in Manitoba’s correctional facilities.
December 2, 2020
Southern Chiefs' Organization testing project aims to improve First Nations water quality
Toronto Star
Since 2019, the Southern Chiefs’ Organization’s (SCO) Water Testing project has focused on developing a robust regional water database through testing in their 34 First Nation communities in southern Manitoba.
November 14, 2020
COVID-19 cases climbing among Manitoba First Nations
CTV News
Manitoba’s First Nation communities continue to face more severe outcomes from COVID-19, recent data from the Manitoba First Nations COVID-19 Pandemic Response Coordination Team (PRCT) shows.
November 13, 2020
Southern Chiefs call on province to step up efforts, free up funds to keep Manitobans safe
Winnipeg Sun
The Southern Chiefs’ Organization (SCO) is calling on the Manitoba government to step up its efforts and free up critically needed funds to keep Manitobans safe during the pandemic. “Let me be very clear, our lives are literally on the line,” said SCO Grand Chief Jerry Daniels in a press release.
November 7, 2020
Manitoba Indigenous leaders call on province to step up COVID-19 response efforts
Globalnews.ca
Indigenous leaders in Manitoba are calling on the provincial government to do better with their COVID-19 response efforts. This comes as COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations among First Nations communities in Manitoba spikes.
November 3, 2020
First Nations, Métis groups rebuke Pallister government
Brandon Sun
Southern Chiefs’ Organization made "an urgent appeal to all orders of government to free up critically needed funds and to drastically step up their efforts to keep First Nation citizens and all Manitobans safe from COVID-19." "Let me be very clear, our lives are literally on the line," Daniels stated in a news release.
November 3, 2020
CBC.ca
Test positivity rate on First Nations in Manitoba is 11 per cent, Jerry Daniels told CBC News. The organization representing First Nations in southern Manitoba is calling on the provincial government to hold itself accountable for its response to the second wave of COVID-19, and to commit more funding to its pandemic response.
November 2, 2020
Four more COVID deaths, 349 new cases announced Saturday
Winnipeg Sun
The Southern Chiefs’ Organization (SCO) is applauding the federal government’s announcement Friday of $200 million in new funding to provide support to Indigenous Peoples and communities in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
November 2, 2020
Attack on harvesting rights taking place across the country InFocus hears
APTN News
Most people are aware of what’s happening in Nova Scotia as Mi’kmaw harvesters exercise their right to fish for a moderate livelihood in the lobster trade. Boats have been burned and sunk, harvesters have been assaulted and harassed by angry mobs, a lobster catch destroyed, traps stolen and most recently a lobster pound was burned to the ground. But what’s happening on the east coast – while headline grabbing – isn’t the only attack on harvesting rights.
October 29, 2020
Globalnews.ca
Indigenous leaders in Manitoba are showing support for Mi’kmaw lobster fishers with a horse spirit ride planned in Winnipeg on Wednesday. Leaders representing the Assembly of First Nations (AFN), the Southern Chiefs Organization, Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak, and the Manitoba Metis Federation will all take part in the ride starting at RCMP Headquarters on Portage Avenue at 1 p.m
October 21, 2020
Manitoba First Nations leaders urge citizens to get flu shot
Thompson Citizen
“We are encouraging everyone to take a flu shot if you have the opportunity to do so. Please take the flu shot as soon as you can to avoid getting sicker or having ‘twindemic,’ as they call it,” said Southern Chiefs’ Organization Grand Chief Jerry Daniels.
October 21, 2020
Morden, Man., senior hockey team changes derogatory name to Bombers
CBC.ca
Change comes after community pushback about previous name, an offensive term for Indigenous people. A senior hockey team in a small Manitoba city has changed its name following a push against the use of Indigenous names and caricatures as mascots.
October 20, 2020
Controversy over new hunting laws
CityNews Winnipeg
The Province proclaimed new hunting laws today from a bill passed in 2018. As Mike Albanese reports, the Southern Chiefs Organization takes issue with the way collaboration is being handled.
October 9, 2020
Manitoba government and Metis federation battling over moose hunt restrictions
CTV News
Grand Chief Jerry Daniels of the Southern Chiefs Organization said he also believes the new restrictions threaten Indigenous rights. “I think right now Brian Pallister doesn’t understand consultation or accommodation because none of them have occurred as it relates to hunting in southern Manitoba,” said Daniels. “Hunting and fishing has been the economy of our communities for millennia.”
October 9, 2020
Anishinaabe woman sends 280 bags of cedar to Little Grand Rapids amid outbreak
CBC.ca
An Anishinaabe woman has been busy gathering a special gift — 280 bags of hand-picked cedar sprigs — to send to Little Grand Rapids First Nation. On Tuesday, Grand Chief Jerry Daniels, of the Southern Chief's Organization, told CBC News the community remains in complete lockdown and testing is underway.
October 6, 2020
Indigenous leaders call out provincial gov't over moose hunt restrictions
Winnipeg Sun
“First Nation peoples have been involved in the protection and sustainable harvesting of these lands and natural resources for thousands of years,” said SCO Grand Chief Jerry Daniels.
October 3, 2020
Chiefs join fight over moose hunting
Winnipeg Free Press
The Southern Chiefs Organization is calling "bull" on the provincial government’s approach to reopen moose hunting, which they say infringes on their constitutional rights and was done without proper consultation.
October 1, 2020
CBC.ca
"While shocking to many in Canada and the rest of the world, this video confirms what First Nation people and communities across the country have been reporting for years," said SCO Grand Chief Jerry Daniels. "No one should ever be subjected to that level of racist treatment. She went to the hospital seeking medical care, and instead was met with insults and judgments purely based on being a First Nation person."
October 1, 2020
SCO wants feds to keep promise on water advisories
Winnipeg Sun
The Southern Chief’s Organization (SCO) is requesting the federal government to keep its promise of ending long-term boil water advisories.
September 30, 2020
Orange Shirt Day shares residential school experience with wide national audience
Globalnews.ca
The Southern Chiefs Organization said in a statement Wednesday that the closure of the Indian Residential Schools Health Support Program (IRS RHSP), scheduled for March of next year, is “heartbreaking.”
September 30, 2020
First Nations worry clean-water promise won't be met
Winnipeg Free Press
Grand Chief Jerry Daniels, of the Southern Chiefs Organization, said he’s heard from Ottawa that the spring deadline might not be met. The Liberal government's throne speech last week noted the need to end advisories, but a clear time frame was omitted. Daniels says that a further delay would be unacceptable, and an indication of poor planning and communication between the federal Department of Indigenous Services and the regional departments responsible for water stewardship and infrastructure.
September 29, 2020
Manitoba CFS minister sued over claim $10M lease to house at-risk kids was 'waste of taxpayer money'
CBC.ca
On Sept. 16, Manitoba Liberal Leader Dougald Lamont and Southern Chiefs' Organization Grand Chief Jerry Daniels held a press conference criticizing that move.
September 29, 2020
$55 million in funding pulled from Northern Manitoba internet network
CTV News
“Given everything that has happened this year – from those working remotely, to school closures and homeschooling, to all who have had to go into isolation – this decision could not have come at a worse time,” said Grand Chief of the Southern Chiefs’ Organization Jerry Daniels in the news release.
September 16, 2020
SCO, Liberals claim mistreatment of children by provincial government
Winnipeg Sun
The Southern Chiefs' Organization (SCO) Grand Chief Jerry Daniels and Manitoba Liberal Leader and MLA for St. Boniface Dougald Lamont held a press conference on Wednesday to discuss the mistreatment of children in care by the Manitoba Government. Both Daniels and Lamont call on the PCs to withdraw the two measures from the budget that denies those who have been wronged by the province for suing for compensation in regards to the care of Child and Family Services (CFS).
September 16, 2020
CBC.ca
The Southern Chiefs' Organization is calling the Manitoba government dishonourable in the way it treats vulnerable children in the province. Southern Chiefs' Organization Grand Chief Jerry Daniels says Brian Pallister's Progressive Conservative government is attempting to present legislation that would prevent the government from being liable for taking hundreds of millions of dollars intended for children in care.
September 16, 2020
Manitoba Liberals allege province using budget as 'get out of jail free' card
CTV News
WINNIPEG — The Manitoba Liberals and Southern Chiefs’ Organization (SCO) is calling on the province to remove two measures from its budget, which they allege undermine vulnerable children.
September 16, 2020
SCO concerned about about sending kids back to school
Brandon Sun
The Southern Chiefs Organization (SCO) wants to know who will be held accountable should First Nations students bring COVID-19 from provincial schools home to their reserves.
September 12, 2020
Golf tourney raises more than $70K
Brandon Sun
The third annual golf tournament hosted by the Southern Chiefs’ Organization (SCO) raised more than $70,000 for post-secondary scholarships for Indigenous students. The scholarships will be awarded to students from the 34 SCO-member communities in partnership with Indspire, a national Indigenous charity that invests in the education of First Nations people.
September 4, 2020
Residential school survivors speaking up after historic site designations
Winnipeg Sun
“The residential school system is one of the darkest events in our shared history. First Nation people have had to deal with its destructive effects, which amounted to genocide, for generations, and Survivors and their families continue to deal with the aftermath,” said Grand Chief Jerry Daniels of the Southern Chiefs’ Organization.
September 3, 2020