RoseAnne Archibald facts for kids

RoseAnne Archibald is a Canadian First Nations leader. She made history as the first woman to become the National Chief of the Assembly of First Nations (AFN). The AFN is a very important group that speaks for many First Nations communities across Canada. She held this big role from July 2021 until June 2023.

Her Journey to Leadership

Early Leadership Roles

RoseAnne Archibald began her leadership path at a young age. In 1990, when she was only 23, she became the chief of the Taykwa Tagamou Nation. She was the first woman and the youngest person to be elected to this position.

She continued to break new ground. In 1991, she became the first woman and youngest Deputy Grand Chief for the Nishnawbe Aski Nation. Then, in 1994, she was the first woman and youngest Grand Chief of the Mushkegowuk Council.

Becoming Ontario Regional Chief

In 2018, RoseAnne Archibald was elected as the Ontario Regional Chief. This was another first for her, as she was the first woman to hold this position.

Leading the Assembly of First Nations

On July 8, 2021, RoseAnne Archibald won the election to become the National Chief of the Assembly of First Nations. She won on the second day of voting, after another candidate, Reginald Bellerose, stepped aside. This made her the first female National Chief in the AFN's history.

Her Time as National Chief

During her time as National Chief, some concerns arose about her leadership. On June 17, 2022, she was temporarily suspended from her role. She was reinstated on July 5, 2022, after a meeting of the AFN General Assembly.

However, investigations continued into her leadership. On June 28, 2023, members of the AFN voted to remove her from office. This meant she was no longer the National Chief. She was the first AFN National Chief to be voted out of office.

After her removal, Joanna Bernard of Madawaska First Nation was appointed as the interim National Chief. Later, in December 2023, Cindy Woodhouse was elected as the new National Chief.

Awards and Recognition

RoseAnne Archibald has received several honors for her work:

• She was named one of the "20 Ontario Vaccine Heroes" by the Toronto Star.
• Maclean's Magazine included her on their "Power List" of 50 Canadians who are shaping how we think and live.
• The Hill Times listed her among the "100 most influential people to watch in federal politics."