Peguis First Nation, led by Chief and Council, who are directed by membership, acknowledges and continues its inherent and sacred right to provide care for our Nation’s children and families through our Indigenous Legal Traditions, Customs and Governance in contemporary times. This sacred and inherent right includes jurisdiction in relation to child and family services. PFN calls for the federal and provincial governments, through a Coordination Agreement, to provide funding for the implementation of this Act that is predictable, sustainable, stable, needs-based and consistent with the principle of substantive equality in order to secure long-term positive outcomes for PFN children, youth, families and the community. “…it is the family, people and community that have the responsibility to care for the child…” Peguis First Nation Elder Garry McCorrister

Peguis First Nation (“PFN') shall provide notice to Canada and the province of Manitoba of its intention to implement its own child and family services law and regulations. This Peguis First Nation Honouring our Children, Families and Nation Act, (the “Act") will serve as the legislative basis for caring for our children and families both on and off reserve. The Act has been drafted in accordance with the federal act, An Act respecting First Nations, Inuit and Metis children, youth and families, S.C. 2019, c. 24. Canada has recognized the inherent rights of self-determination of Indigenous peoples, and the corresponding right of First Nations to exercise jurisdiction and authority over matters involving First Nation children and families. 

PFN has inherent authority to create this Act and in doing so, enhances our Nation-to- Nation relationship with the Crown in Right of Canada. The late Chief Peguis’ son, Henry Prince, was the first Chief to place his mark as signatory to Treaty 1, on behalf of what would become the Peguis First Nation. Treaty rights have been afforded constitutional protection through section 35 of theConstitution Act, 1982which serves as another source of authority to develop, create and implement this Act. Intertwined between the Act andAn Act respecting First Nations, Inuit and Metis children, youth and families is the principle of relationships. These Acts each highlight and affirm the importance of relationships between the child, siblings, parents, extended family, the community and the land, with a special focus on the best interests of the child, cultural continuity, an equitable provision of services and emphasis on cultural enhancement and teachings. 

Peguis First Nation and Peguis Child and Family Services (the “Agency") both acknowledge the inter-generational traumas faced by many parents today which may result in challenges within families. Due to inter-generational traumas our families have been left to re-learn and revitalize traditional parenting. The Agency will do its best not to displace parents but to supplement and support their efforts to healing from inter-generational traumas so that they can raise their children in a healthy and supportive manner. The Agency recognizes that at times, parents may need someone to stand with them, and will therefore cultivate relationships with parents requiring assistance. These relationships shall endeavour to include, culture, language, ceremony and the land. 

The Act is a living law, derived from Inaakonigewin, laws given to Anishinaabe. Pipes have been lifted and the drum has been sounded and guidance from Spirit has been sought for this journey. Our people have been called together to lift up those children and families in need, by collectively supporting their journey to wellness.