Northern Authority Gathers at Opaskwayak Cree Nation to Celebrate 21st AGM and 20th Anniversary of AJI-CWI

October 15, 2025

"A day of reflection, cultural pride, and renewed commitment to children, families, and northern First Nations"

Opaskwayak Cree Nation, Manitoba - October 2025

The First Nations of Northern Manitoba Child and Family Services Authority (Northern Authority) proudly hosted its 21st Annual General Meeting (AGM) at the Kikiwak Inn, Opaskwayak Cree Nation, marking a milestone year that also celebrated the 20th Anniversary of the Aboriginal Justice Inquiry - Child Welfare Initiative (AJI-CWI).

The gathering brought together Elders, Chiefs, agency leaders, and partners from across northern Manitoba to reflect on two decades of progress, celebrate shared achievements, and renew commitments to advancing First Nations self-determination in child and family services.

The day began in a good way with an opening prayer from Elder William Lathlin and a powerful drum song by the Buffalo Crossing Drum Group, setting a tone of unity and reflection. Board Chair Denise Packo delivered welcoming remarks on behalf of the Board of Directors, followed by the reading of Chief Executive Officer Ron Monias' opening remarks, presented by Associate CEO Angela Saunders.

Throughout the morning, attendees heard detailed presentations from each Northern Authority unit - Human Resources, Finance, Resource Development & Northern Initiatives, Northern Response & Support, and the Executive Unit - highlighting key accomplishments and priorities from the 2024-2025 fiscal year. These updates reflected the Authority's continued efforts to strengthen capacity, enhance training and policy development, improve financial accountability, and ensure culturally grounded service delivery for northern children and families.

A highlight of the day was the AJI-CWI 20th Anniversary presentation, delivered by Board Member Walter Spence, who reflected on the origins and lasting impact of the initiative. His remarks honoured the Chiefs, Elders, and visionaries who led this transformation more than two decades ago, and emphasized the ongoing importance of restoring First Nations control over child and family services. Following his presentation, a round table discussion with Mr. Walter Spence and Elder William Lathlin invited participants to share reflections, ask questions, and exchange memories about the AJI-CWI journey and its future direction.

Closing remarks on behalf of CEO Ron Monias were delivered by Associate CEO, who expressed deep gratitude to the Board, Elders, Chiefs, agency staff, and community partners for their leadership and ongoing commitment.

"AJI-CWI is not just a chapter in our history," read Saunders from Monias' statement. "It is living work - a vision we continue to carry forward with courage, unity, and hope for our children and families."

The event concluded in a good way with a closing prayer and a final song by the Buffalo Crossing Drum Group, leaving attendees inspired and grounded in the shared mission to protect and strengthen northern First Nations families.

 

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