Ugpi'ganjig First Nation recognizes that there is an urgent need to change how child and family services are provided to First Nations. Historically, too many Indigenous children and youth have been removed from their homes, culture, and community. This trauma has impacted not only the lives of those children, but also the lives of those generations that have followed. 

Thanks to the work of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, and Indigenous advocates such as Cindy Blackstock, on January 1, 2020 An Act Respecting First Nations came into effect across Canada. This piece of legislation outlines a path forward for First Nation to assert jurisdiction over child welfare matters in their own communities. 

In order to move towards child welfare legislation for Ugpi'ganjig, it is essential to understand 1) how ready is the community to both develop and enforce the law? and 2) what areas require greater capacity building in order to move ahead?

The Ugpi'ganjig Child and Family Legislation Community Readiness Project will address these questions through research, community consultation, and discussion with key stakeholders. The Project's Readiness Committee will ultimately make recommendations on what actions can be taken to ensure the community is ready to take control of child welfare, and ensure the safety and well-being of Ugpi'ganjig children and youth.