Independent First Nations Alliance facts for kids
The Independent First Nations Alliance (IFNA) is a special group that helps five First Nations communities in northern Ontario, Canada. It's like a support team for these communities, which are mostly Ojibway and Oji-Cree people. IFNA is a non-profit organization, meaning it doesn't try to make money for itself. Instead, it offers advice and runs programs to help its member communities.
What is IFNA and How it Works?
IFNA was started in 1989. It's made up of a Chief (a leader) from each of the five member communities. These Chiefs work together, guided by their people's wishes and traditional ways of making decisions. They help set the direction for IFNA.
IFNA helps its member First Nations by:
- Planning for the future.
- Working with governments.
- Developing important rules and plans.
- Providing expert advice and support for community projects.
Even though IFNA helps them as a group, each First Nation community still makes its own decisions. IFNA also has a team that works to support the communities and help them grow stronger.
IFNA is also part of a bigger group called Nishnawbe Aski Nation. This larger group represents many First Nations in northern Ontario who are part of Treaty 5 and Treaty 9. The First Nations that are members of IFNA are part of different agreements, including Treaties 3, 5, and 9, and the Robinson-Superior Treaty. These treaties are important agreements between First Nations and the Canadian government.
Member First Nations
Here are the five First Nations communities that are part of the Independent First Nations Alliance:
