Confederacy of Treaty Six First Nations Condemns Air Canada's Actions and Stands in Solidarity with National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak

April 26, 2024 (Treaty No. 6 Territory) — The Confederacy of Treaty Six First Nations and

Grand Chief Cody Thomas are deeply concerned and disappointed at the recent incident

involving Air Canada and AFN National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak. We stand together in support of the National Chief and condemn Air Canada's actions in taking her sacred headdress.

Air Canada's ignorant disregard for the cultural significance and sacredness of a headdress

is deeply troubling. The headdress holds immense spiritual and cultural importance to First

Nations Peoples. It is disrespectful and unacceptable for an airline, or any entity, to handle

a sacred item without proper understanding, respect, and consent.

This incident highlights the urgent need for cultural sensitivity training for all Air Canada

Staff members. It is essential that employees are educated about the diverse cultures and

traditions of the passengers they serve to ensure that such incidents are never repeated.

Grand Chief Cody Thomas urges Air Canada to take immediate action to address this

situation. A public apology to National Chief Woodhouse Nepinak must be followed by a

substantial plan that demonstrates their commitment to cultural sensitivity and respect for

First Nations traditions. A public apology is a first step. We expect Air Canada to engage in

meaningful dialogue with First Nations to address this issue and implement appropriate

measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Media Contact: Jill McKenzie

pipikwan péhtakwan

jill@pipikwanpehtakwan.com