The Mohawk Council of Kahnawà:ke (MCK) wishes to inform the community that Ohén:ton Í:rate ne Ratitsénhaienhs Cody Diabo will be in Ottawa today to begin two days of critical engagement with federal leaders, including participation in the historic Bill C-5 Summit hosted by Crown–Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada (CIRNAC).
Wednesday, July 16, Diabo will meet with newly appointed Minister of Indigenous Services Canada, Mandy Gull-Masty (the first Indigenous person to hold this position), to formally introduce Kahnawà:ke’s leadership and discuss pressing priorities for Kahnawà:ke.
Thursday, July 17, Diabo will join other First Nations leaders and Prime Minister Mark Carney at the Bill C-5 Summit, a full-day gathering following the swift passage of the One Canadian Economy Act (Bill C-5). The summit will focus on the role of Indigenous communities in economic development and oversight of major industrial projects, including the controversial creation of a federal Major Projects Office.
“The people of Kahnawà:ke expect their leadership to advocate fiercely and with clarity. I intend to ensure our voices are heard on issues that touch our lands, our laws, and our future,” said Ohén:ton Í:rate ne Ratitsénhaienhs Cody Diabo.
This Ottawa visit marks a key moment in evolving relations between the federal government and First Nations. Discussions will also touch on environmental protections, consultation standards, and ensuring Indigenous economic equity under the new Bill.
