AMC Commends the Proposed Settlement for Survivors of Federal Indian Hospitals and Calls for First Nations involvement in Healing and Justice

March 6, 2025

Treaty One Territory, Winnipeg – The Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs (AMC) acknowledges the federal government’s proposed settlement of more than $1 billion to compensate Indigenous survivors of Canada’s segregated Indian hospitals. While this settlement, pending Federal Court approval, represents long-overdue recognition, it cannot erase the profound suffering endured by First Nations citizens who were taken from their families, subjected to neglect and abuse, and left with lasting trauma. The agreement also includes $150 million for healing and reconciliation initiatives and $235.5 million to support research, education, and the search for burial sites connected to these institutions.

AMC Grand Chief Kyra Wilson honours the strength and resilience of survivors, including Ann Cecile Hardy and all those who have fought to bring this dark chapter of Canada’s history to light.

“For too long, the voices of survivors have been silenced. Their pain has been ignored. The Indian hospital system was a blatant act of discrimination—one that tore families apart, inflicted lasting harm, and stole the dignity of our people,” said Grand Chief Wilson. “This settlement is not just about compensation; it must be about justice, healing, and ensuring that First Nations lead the way forward.”

Between 1945 and 1981, six federal Indian hospitals and one sanatorium operated in Manitoba, leaving a devastating legacy that continues to affect First Nations across generations. Many patients were never reunited with their families, and to this day, unmarked graves tied to these institutions are still being uncovered. Survivors and their families continue to carry the weight of this injustice.

“This settlement must not be the final step. Canada must commit to full transparency in identifying the children and loved ones who never came home,” Grand Chief Wilson continued. “Survivors and their families deserve more than an apology and compensation. They need meaningful mental health supports, culturally grounded healing, and recognition of the deep intergenerational trauma inflicted on our Nations.”

The AMC calls on the federal government to ensure that the Indigenous-led engagement team responsible for gathering input on fund distribution includes survivors, Knowledge Keepers, and representatives from First Nations across Manitoba. Healing must be guided by those who have lived through this injustice, not dictated by government agencies.

“We will not allow First Nations voices to be sidelined in this process,” concluded Grand Chief Wilson. “The Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs stands with our people to demand truth, justice, and long-term healing initiatives—ones that are not just promised but delivered.”

The AMC remains committed to advocating for survivors, uncovering the full truth of the Indian hospital system, and ensuring that First Nations have full authority over healing and reconciliation efforts moving forward.

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For more information, please contact:

Communications Team
Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs
Email:  media@manitobachiefs.com

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