SCO Chiefs-in-Summit Passes Key Resolutions on Urban Programs, Health, and Dakota Representation
Press Release
April 23, 2026
ANISHINAABE AND DAKOTA TERRITORY, MB — The Southern Chiefs’ Organization (SCO) held its latest Chiefs-in-Summit this week in Treaty One Territory to expand urban programs, strengthen Dakota representation, and advance health system reform. Chiefs and their proxies received updates on SCO programs and priorities affecting the well-being of their Nations.
“When our Nations come together, we make decisions that move our people forward,” stated Grand Chief Jerry Daniels. “This Summit reflects real progress in strengthening our role in economic development and building opportunities for our citizens.”
Anishinaabe and Dakota Chiefs and proxies passed three resolutions, including a commitment to expand SCO programs and services in urban areas to better support First Nations members both on and off reserve.
“Our citizens live both in urban centres and in our home Nations, and we must meet them where they are,” added Grand Chief Daniels. “Urbanization has given SCO the opportunity to provide services and programs, including support when our people are displaced by natural disasters.”
Another resolution called for Dakota representation on the recently formed Manitoba Crown-Indigenous Corporation (MCIC). Chiefs and proxies voted unanimously to appoint Chief Tréchelle Bunn of Birdtail Sioux Dakota Nation to the Board of Directors of MCIC.
“I am grateful for the trust bestowed on me by SCO Chiefs,” said Chief Bunn. “I am also committed to ensuring that the voices of the SCO Dakota First Nations and citizens are heard and respected as part of this vital economic development initiative.”
A third resolution directs the SCO Health Transformation team to create an Anti-Racism Committee to advance a Southern First Nations Anti-Racism Strategy, along with establishing a Southern First Nations Health Ombudsperson.
“These initiatives are critical to addressing anti-First Nations racism and ensuring accountability within the health care system,” shared Grand Chief Daniels. “We must confront systemic racism directly to close the 11-year gap in life expectancy between First Nations Citizens and others in this province and build a health system that works for our people.”
SCO announced additional funding from Veterans Affairs Canada to support the SCO First Nations Veterans Program, which continues to set the standard for culturally grounded, First Nations-led Veteran services. This investment will advance a first-of-its-kind, comprehensive initiative focused on addressing homelessness among First Nations Veterans.
The Summit also highlighted a new three-year partnership between SCO and the Winnipeg Blue Bombers to promote “Movement is Medicine.” Leaders noted the partnership will create opportunities for First Nations youth, support reconciliation, and celebrate Anishinaabe and Dakota cultures.
SCO will continue working with Chiefs and leadership to advance these priorities and support strong, healthy, and thriving First Nations across southern Manitoba.
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The Southern Chiefs’ Organization represents 33 First Nations and more than 92,000 citizens in what is now called southern Manitoba. SCO is an independent political organization that protects, preserves, promotes, and enhances First Nations peoples’ inherent rights, languages, customs, and traditions through the application and implementation of the spirit and intent of the Treaty-making process.
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Email: Media@scoinc.mb.ca
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