Tikinagan’s statement on the Ontario Final Agreement on the First Nations Child and Family Services Program

We want to recognize the dedication of all those involved in the Ontario Final Agreement on the First Nations Child and Family Services Program. Guided by our First Nations mandate, Tikinagan Child and Family Services remains committed to working together with our communities. We welcome our Chiefs’ decision in securing this agreement and appreciate the collaboration that will start to bring transformational change towards ending discrimination against First Nations children and families.

Our First Nations and Tikinagan have known about the existence of discrimination against our children for a long time. We are inspired by the work that our communities have committed themselves to by moving forward. The importance of keeping our children with us has always been the guiding principle that was recognized by past leaders. Forty years ago, our First Nations Chiefs believed, and continue to believe, that the answers lie within the community. That’s why they recognized the need to have their own child wellbeing agency.

As the next steps are taken, our focus will remain on our children’s safety and wellbeing, and our families’ healing journeys. This involves everyone who is part of a child’s circle of care, including their parents, First Nation, community, and extended family. This is the heart of our culturally-appropriate service model Mamow Obiki-ahwahsoowin, “everyone working together to raise our children.” By working together, this will ensure the best outcomes for our greatest gift from the Creator, our children.