First Nations leaders, candidates reach out to mobilize Indigenous voters
Tania Cameron is on a mission as she clocks in countless hours in her 2023 Ford Explorer, crisscrossing the expansive Kenora-Kiiwetinoong riding in Ontario. With 2,700 kilometres and 52 hours of drive time under her belt since the start of her campaign, Cameron is leaving no stone unturned in her quest to connect with every community in the region.
Kenora-Kiiwetinoong is a vast riding, covering one-third of the province and home to 38 First Nations, many of which are remote. It is one of 36 ridings across the country where the Assembly of First Nations (AFN) believes that the outcome of the upcoming federal election could be influenced by First Nations voters. Despite this potential impact, Indigenous voter turnout has seen a decline in recent years, prompting leaders to encourage community members to exercise their right to vote.
Cameron, a member of the Niisaachewan Anishinaabe Nation in Treaty 3, acknowledges the complexities surrounding Indigenous participation in the federal electoral system. Some Indigenous individuals may choose not to vote due to concerns about the legitimacy of traditional governing systems. However, Cameron emphasizes the importance of engaging in the electoral process to influence policies and decisions that affect Indigenous communities.
Charles Fox, the Liberal candidate for Kenora-Kiiwetinoong and former Grand Chief of Nishnawbe Aski Nation, is also working tirelessly to educate residents about the voting process. He highlights the significance of Indigenous representation in government to shape policies and advocate for community needs.
In Manitoba, organizations like the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs, Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak, and Southern Chiefs’ Organization have launched the “Rock the Vote” campaigns to mobilize First Nations voters and underscore the importance of their participation in the election. Grand Chief Jerry Daniels and Youth Chief Billy Bird are among those leading the charge to empower Indigenous youth and encourage them to exercise their voting rights.
While Indigenous issues have taken a backseat in the current election campaign, leaders like NDP leader Jagmeet Singh are calling for increased attention and action on Indigenous priorities. The AFN is urging federal politicians to address critical issues such as economic reconciliation, the well-being of First Nations children, and community safety and security.
As candidates like Tania Cameron and Charles Fox continue their outreach efforts in Kenora-Kiiwetinoong, they are committed to bridging the gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities to address shared concerns like tariffs, sovereignty threats, healthcare, homelessness, and resource development. By amplifying Indigenous voices and advocating for their interests, these candidates are working towards a more inclusive and equitable future for all residents of the region.
