As we close out 2024, we’re filled with pride and gratitude for the incredible work ISN Maskwa has accomplished this year. Of recent, on December 17, our team was featured on the Aboriginal People’s Television Network (APTN) National News, thanks to the insightful coverage by reporter Mike McDonald. This recognition marked a powerful conclusion to a year filled with both challenges and triumphs. It serves as a reminder of our commitment to continuously evolve, learn, and collaborate with First Nations communities in responding to emergencies.
Responding to Emergencies with Compassion and Expertise
In 2024, ISN Maskwa’s work spanned a diverse array of emergencies, from precautionary flood evacuations to providing critical community support during social crises. We pushed our team to new limits and new provinces, and, in doing so, gained invaluable experience that will serve us well in the future. The operational team faces logistical challenges as many of the communities we serve are located in remote areas, where access is limited, and travel conditions can be unique. Our team’s abilities to be flexible and resourceful reflects our determination and adaptability in the face of adversity.
A key highlight was our ability to adapt quickly and deploy our Community Support Personnel (CSPs) in the wake of these challenges. These individuals are the heart of ISN Maskwa—they are the first responders on the ground, engaging directly with community members, offering support, and demonstrating the power of First Nations helping First Nations. The courage, empathy, and commitment our CSPs bring to each mission continues to define the work we do.
A Strong, Dedicated Team
Our team brings together a wealth of experience, knowledge, and an unwavering sense of duty. We are incredibly proud of all their accomplishments this year. From frontline CSPs to supervisors, everyone plays a vital role in ensuring our operations run smoothly on the ground. The dedication of our supervisors in providing guidance and ensuring safety on deployments and evacuations cannot be overstated.
As the year draws to a close, we extend a heartfelt chi-miigwetch to the CSPs, supervisors, and all team members. Your long hours, empathy, and relentless commitment to the communities we serve form the foundation of ISN Maskwa’s success.
Key Milestones and Achievements
Beyond our direct emergency response efforts, ISN Maskwa played an integral role in several significant events in 2024. Our team continued their work within the MMIWG, working closely with Indigenous leadership, First Nation communities and family to bring attention to this critical issue. Our involvement in Residential School investigations gained national recognition, which lead to an invitation to present our findings at a law enforcement conference in the United States.
In October, we made history by leading the first-ever all-Indigenous incident command team in the evacuation of a First Nation community affected by chemical exposure. This groundbreaking achievement not only marked a milestone for ISN Maskwa but also set a powerful precedent for Indigenous leadership in emergency response.
Another proud moment came this year when ISN Maskwa increased training capacities to add two new courses to our training services – Peacekeeper Training and Wildland Firefighting Training. In February 2024, ISN Maskwa ran its first ever Peacekeepers/By-Law Training course, in Kashechewan First Nation, where a team now works to protect their community and its members. By the Spring, the Wildland Firefighting training program launched and began in the Mushkegowuk Council communities and is now being taught in the Keewaytinook Okimakanak communities, continuing in 2025. This initiative trained community members from vulnerable First Nations, equipping them with the skills to combat wildfires before they escalate, helping to protect their homes and families. Additionally, one Incident Management System course and six Evacuation Specialist Community Support Training courses were conducted in First Nations and cities across the province. Overall, ISN Maskwa was proud to deliver 16 training courses in 2024, building capacities to support emergency responses in Ontario.
All of these training options are designed specifically for Indigenous individuals across Ontario. These programs empower individuals to step into vital roles during emergencies, ensuring that First Nations communities are supported by those who understand their unique challenges and needs.
Partnerships that Drive Change
We are immensely grateful to the Chiefs, Council members, Tribal Councils and First Nations we’ve had the honor to support and work alongside this year. Your trust and collaboration are essential to our success. We also want to express our deep appreciation to Indigenous Services Canada for their continued partnership and unwavering support.
Through our collective efforts, we are creating meaningful change. Together, we are building stronger, more resilient communities, and empowering Indigenous people to take the lead in shaping their futures.
Looking Ahead to 2025
As we look to the future, ISN Maskwa remains dedicated to our mission of serving Indigenous communities with strength, compassion, and unwavering commitment. The work we’ve done in 2024 fills us with pride, and we are excited for the opportunities and challenges that 2025 will bring.
Chi-miigwetch to everyone who has been part of this journey. Together, we continue to make a lasting impact—creating positive, transformative change for First Nations communities across Ontario and beyond.
The ISN Maskwa Team
