First Nations walk for water as major projects loom

The Assembly of First Nations (AFN) began its summer annual general assembly in Ottawa on July 13, 2026. Before the meetings started, members held a water walk across the Ottawa River. The event comes as leaders express concerns over two key issues: a proposed federal water bill and several major development projects. The water bill aims to guarantee clean drinking water for Indigenous communities, but some chiefs say it could limit their control over local water sources. Major projects, including pipelines and mining operations, also worry First Nations leaders. They argue these developments threaten water quality and traditional lands. The AFN assembly runs for several days, with delegates expected to debate both the bill and the projects. A final resolution is not yet guaranteed.