It is pursuant to An Act respecting First Nations, Inuit and Métis children, youth and families
The Algonquins of Pikwakanagan First Nation have inked a coordination agreement with child and family well-being agency Nigig Nibi Ki-win Gamik and the Canadian and Ontario governments supporting the implementation of Pikwakanagan's child and family services law Nigig Nibi Ki-win.
The agreement is pursuant to An Act respecting First Nations, Inuit and Métis children, youth and families. Nigig Nibi Ki-win first came into effect on April 19, 2024 and has the force of federal law in accordance with the Act.
“What an honour to take part in this momentous occasion and in the signing of the coordination agreement between the Algonquins of Pikwakanagan First Nation, Nigig Nibi Ki-win Gamik, Canada and the Government of Ontario,” said Patty Hajdu, minister of Indigenous Ssrvices and minister responsible for FedNor, in a statement. “In exercising jurisdiction over their child and family services, Pikwakanagan is ensuring that the next generation will grow up rooted in their culture, among family, and connected to their lands. This is a shared vision, which we are committed to support.”
The Canadian government committed to provide annual implementation funding of $18,842,506, an amount that will be adjusted for inflation and population growth each year. Pikwakanagan will also get start-up and capital funds. Moreover, Pikwakanagan, Nigig Nibi Ki-win Gamik, and Ontario are negotiating a funding agreement.
Minister of children, community and social services Michael Parsa said in a statement that the agreement was “a testament to the Algonquins of Pikwakanagan First Nation's steadfast commitment to the safety and well-being of their children, youth and families, and it marks a historic moment for the community.” Nigig Nibi Ki-win Gamik executive director Alexandra Freed added that the agreement’s signing “marks a milestone in our journey alongside and in support of Ninìdjànisinànig, Weshkinìgidjig, and their Wendjibàdj.”
“These agreements will support the important programs and services that we are providing under Nigig Nibi Ki-win that effectively respond to and put at the centre the needs of families. Nigig Nibi Ki-win Gamik will continue to do our part to contribute to the well-being of the Pikwakanagan community for the generations to come,” Freed said.
Algonquins of Pikwakanagan First Nation Chief Greg Sarazin explained that the work was “about more than providing services—it's about protecting our future, empowering our families, and honouring the teachings of our ancestors.”
Nigig Nibi Ki-win was drafted by Pikwakanagan leaders, staff, and community with input from Pikwakanagan's Elders and Traditional Knowledge Keepers. The law outlines Pikwakanagan's obligations to Ninìdjànisinànig and Weshkinìgidjig to support and shield their Wendjibàdj, and nurture, maintain, and restore connection to family, culture, and the land.
Nigig Nibi Ki-win Gamik is responsible for administering and delivering programs, services, and supports grounded in culture and with a “prevention- and family-first approach.”
