AMC Stands with Sayisi Dene First Nation Following State of Emergency Declaration

Press Release

Treaty One Territory, Winnipeg, Manitoba (June 12, 2026) — The Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs (AMC) stands in solidarity with Sayisi Dene First Nation following the community’s declaration of a State of Emergency amid an escalating drug and addiction crisis. The Nation is calling for urgent government action to address community safety concerns and improve access to addictions treatment, mental health supports, safe houses, and 24-hour community policing.

Sayisi Dene First Nation is a remote, fly-in Treaty 5 Dene community located in Tadoule Lake, Manitoba, approximately 325 kilometres north of Thompson. Community leadership has identified an urgent need for additional supports as the impacts of addiction and related violence continue to affect residents. With no permanent police presence in the community and significant barriers to accessing services due to its remote location, leadership is calling for immediate government action.

In response to the crisis, Chiefs gathered at the Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak (MKO) Chiefs Assembly unanimously passed a resolution supporting Sayisi Dene First Nation’s advocacy efforts for increased addictions treatment services, enhanced mental health supports, safe houses, and access to 24-hour community policing.

Grand Chief Kyra Wilson said the declaration of a State of Emergency highlights the urgent need for governments to work alongside First Nations communities facing growing challenges related to addictions and community safety.

“Sayisi Dene First Nation is facing a serious crisis, and no community should be left to respond alone. When drugs, addictions, and violence are threatening the safety of families, governments must act immediately,” said Grand Chief Wilson. “AMC stands with Chief Kelly-Ann Thom-Duck, Council, and the citizens of Sayisi Dene First Nation in their call for addictions treatment, mental health supports, safe houses, and 24-hour community policing. These are not optional services; they are essential to protecting lives and supporting healing.”

The AMC acknowledges the leadership of Chief Kelly-Ann Thom-Duck and Council for continuing to advocate for the safety and well-being of their Nation, as well as the support demonstrated by Chiefs gathered at the MKO Chiefs Assembly.

The AMC joins the call for coordinated action from federal and provincial governments and supports First Nations-led solutions that address the root causes of addiction, strengthen community safety, and promote healing and wellness for current and future generations.

For more information, please contact:

Communications Team
Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs
Email:  media@manitobachiefs.com

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