Ontario First Nations call for wildfire response inquiry

First Nations leaders in Ontario are calling for an immediate public inquiry into the provincial government's wildfire response, alleging systemic failures that left Indigenous communities to organize their own evacuations with little warning or support. The demand was made at a press conference in Thunder Bay on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, organized by Nishnawbe Aski Nation and supported by leaders from multiple First Nations and tribal councils.

The call follows the complete destruction of the Namaygoosisagagun (Collins) First Nation and significant damage to Whitewater First Nation. Chief Helen Paavola of Collins First Nation stated that nothing remained but ashes after the community self-evacuated on July 13. She said her members barely escaped with the clothes on their backs and were left to evacuate without notice or provincial support. Leaders allege that in several communities, residents began self-evacuating before receiving formal evacuation recommendations from the province, citing critical delays in communication.

Premier Doug Ford defended the provincial response on Tuesday, July 21, stating he totally disagrees with the chiefs' allegations. He said Ontario has helped...