From Regional Chief to Aspiring National Chief: The Journey of Cindy Woodhouse

“In October 2023, Regional Chief Cindy Woodhouse announced her intention to seek the position of National Chief at the Assembly of First Nations. Her decision reflects a profound commitment to leadership, emphasizing the skills needed for effective advocacy, cooperation, and partnership-building to advance Indigenous rights and well-being.

Observers widely consider her a front-runner, acknowledging her wealth of experience in both Indigenous and Canadian politics. Her candidacy is more than an individual pursuit; it symbolizes a community’s trust in her ability to stand for something greater than herself. Putting forward one’s name for political leadership is a profound commitment, and Woodhouse’s endorsement by her community adds significance to her journey.

“Born and raised in the Anishinaabe community of Pinaymootang First Nation, Chief Woodhouse has roots deeply embedded in the heritage of Treaty 2 territory, Manitoba. Her journey is marked by a legacy of leadership, shaped by the teachings of her Great-Great Grandfather, Chief Richard Woodhouse, an original signatory of Treaty 2 in 1871.

Guided by the values instilled by her parents, Chief Woodhouse’s commitment to First Nations’ inherent and Treaty rights became evident early in her life. Her educational journey, culminating in a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Winnipeg and additional training at Harvard University, laid the foundation for a career dedicated to serving First Nations.

Spearheading negotiations, she led a groundbreaking $40 billion settlement of a human rights class action dealing with discrimination in the child welfare system. This accomplishment firmly established her as an unwavering advocate for justice.

Her term as Regional Chief was marked by advocacy for clean drinking water, universal internet connectivity, and closing infrastructure gaps for all First Nations. In this role, she continuously brings attention to evolving challenges, from implementing the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples to addressing issues in policing and emergency services.

The significance of the role of the National Chief holds the responsibility and honour that comes with such a profound position. Through her actions, Chief Woodhouse has repeatedly shown that this is the type of leadership role she cannot only take on but excel in, pulling the communities she serves toward a better future.

As Chief Woodhouse steps onto the national stage, her leadership exemplifies a deep connection to heritage, a commitment to justice, and an unwavering pursuit of advancing First Nations’ rights and well-being. If successful, she will be the National Chief of Canada’s Indigenous people, bringing strength, empathy, and stability. She embodies the transformative power of leadership rooted in the values of Canada’s Indigenous communities.”