First Nations are ready to stand with Canada against Trump’s tariff threat

These are unprecedented times, calling for strong, united and determined action by all Canadians, Indigenous and non-Indigenous alike. While Indigenous people have had more than their share of problems with the government and people of Canada, we have always been willing to stand with the country through trials. The recent tariffs announced by the United States threaten to upend one of the world’s greatest, most stable and most mutually beneficial trading relationships.

Our country’s future is at risk; we, Indigenous Canadians, are eager to be part of the search for solutions. U.S.



President Donald Trump has his reasons for taking these dramatic measures, leaving it to leaders across Canada to develop strategies for economic protection and revitalization. We can no longer take the friendship and co-operation of the U.S.

for granted. Canada should know that First Nations stand in solidarity with the provinces, territories and the nation as we work together to find viable paths forward. The dangers of substantial economic turmoil are real, and they will affect our First Nations as much, if not more, than other Canadians.

Canada’s vulnerabilities are First Nations’ vulnerabilities. Over the past 150 years, First Nations joined with Canada in a series of historic and modern treaties. Our ancestors signed these agreements and pledged to live in peace with newcomers, and to work with the people who settled on our territories and moved into the towns and cities.

We kept our part of the bargain. We now call on the spirit of these sacred accords to guide us as we collectively face an uncertain future. Our paths are intertwined.

As Canada works toward economic renewal and away from our overdependence on American markets, we will need more creative solutions and greater flexibility and creativity than in the past. This country urgently requires shared actions. We must work together to create renewed — and improved — prosperity for all Canadians.

Perhaps the greatest lesson First Nations people can share with Canadians is our resilience. We have, for generations, been marginalized, ignored and impoverished. Our languages and culture have suffered, and our people have been harmed.

First Nations have been insulted and criticized, our legitimacy as nations has been questioned — much like Trump has derided our country. We fought back against formidable odds, and we will continue to do so. First Nations have had difficulties with the Government of Canada — an understatement to be sure.

But the same history that divides us has also pulled us together. Thousands of First Nations people served in the Canadian armed forces, represented Canada in international sporting events or otherwise contributed to the social, economic and cultural strength of this country. The sovereign First Nations in what is called Canada have always responded to the challenges of the nation.

We stand ready to do the same again..