ANISHINABEK NATION HEAD OFFICE, NIPISSING FIRST NATION (May 28, 2020) – In response to the ongoing coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) global pandemic, the Anishinabek Nation (Union of Ontario Indians) staff will be working from home until September 2020.

The organization remains committed to continue to serve its 39 member First Nations while ensuring the safety and well-being of all staff and First Nations. The Anishinabek Nation created an Internal Coordination Committee comprised of senior management and political office staff that is responsible for developing and implementing an action plan to provide the required decision-making and support in response to the pandemic.

Chief Executive Officer Marcia Trudeau-Bomberry’s directive to some 90 staff, who normally work from four offices across the Anishinabek Nation territory, was to continue to protect themselves and their families.

“Central to our response to the pandemic and decision-making processes is the health, safety, and well-being of our staff, their families and our communities. Our work transitioned almost immediately, but in two phases, to all staff working from home,” says Marcia Trudeau-Bomberry. “This included the cancellation of all employee travel, work-related meetings, gatherings, events, and restricting visitors to all Anishinabek Nation offices. We are committed to incorporating digital strategies to improve how we work with and engage communities – and look forward to continuing our work for Anishinabek First Nations.”

A Return-to-Work Group has been created to monitor the situation and updates from government and health officials, and to develop a policy and protocols for staff to eventually return to the office safely.

The organization will continue to take actions necessary to help protect its staff and First Nations.

The Anishinabek Nation is a political advocate for 39 member First Nations across Ontario, representing approximately 65,000 citizens.  The Anishinabek Nation is the oldest political organization in Ontario and can trace its roots back to the Confederacy of Three Fires, which existed long before European contact. 

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Laura Barrios, Communications Officer

Anishinabek Nation

Phone: 705-497-9127 ext. 2290

E-mail: laura.barrios@anishinabek.ca