Chief Councillor Cootes Advocates for Enhanced Participation of Indigenous Peoples at United Nations Forum

In April, Uchucklesaht Tribe Government Chief Councillor Wilfred Cootes attended the 25th session of the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues (UNPFII) in New York City as part of the Canadian Delegation.

Chief Councillor Cootes, President of the Maa-nulth Treaty Society and a Director of the Nuu-chah-nulth Tribal Council Board, attended the international gathering which brought together Indigenous leaders, governments, organizations, and experts from around the world to discuss Indigenous rights, health, governance, culture, and global cooperation.

As one of the United Nations’ key advisory bodies on Indigenous issues, the UNPFII provides a platform for Indigenous Peoples to share knowledge, strengthen relationships, and help shape international conversations that affect their communities.

During the Forum, Chief Councillor Cootes continued discussions he raised in 2024 about enhancing Indigenous Peoples’ participation within the mechanisms of the United Nations’ systems and decision-making processes.

His remarks focused on advancing a distinct approach to recognition of Indigenous Peoples and ensuring Indigenous voices are directly included in global conversations that affect their communities.

Throughout the week, Chief Councillor Cootes participated in high-level meetings and discussions with Indigenous and government leaders and representatives from Canada and around the world.

Highlights included an opening ceremony and welcome reception hosted by the Government of Canada, along with strategic discussions on Indigenous rights, health, reconciliation, and protecting Indigenous knowledge systems and ways of life.

Speakers and participants included Governor General Mary Simon, Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations Rebecca Alty, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Canada to the United Nations in New York, David Lametti, Senator Margo Greenwood, and Inuit and Métis Elders, Ruth Mercredi, Minnie Grey, and Alberta Malcolm.

He also attended a breakfast with Indigenous leaders from across Canada, met with Ambassador Mohamed, Australia’s Ambassador for First Nations People, and attended a strategic dialogue chaired by Senator Margo Greenwood.

Discussions at the Forum also explored ways to improve health outcomes and well-being for Indigenous Peoples globally while advancing implementation of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP).

Chief Councillor Cootes’ participation was also featured in the Indigenous-led publication Ha-Shilth-Sa, which highlighted the Forum’s role in bringing together Indigenous leaders, governments, and organizations from around the world to exchange ideas, share best practices, and advance Indigenous rights.

Story contributed by Amy Anaka, Intergovernmental Relations & Policy Analyst
Edited by Rippon Madtha