Council Fire Youth Meet Federal Ministers to Raise Health, Housing, and Cultural Priorities

Recently, Indigenous youth took centre stage to share their priorities on health, housing, and culture with federal leaders.

Fred Alvarado — Local Journalism Initiative

Hosted by Toronto Council Fire Native Cultural Centre at the Spirit Garden inNathan Phillips Square, the dialogue offered a rare opportunity for youth to speak directly with Crown–Indigenous Relations Minister Rebecca Alty and Toronto Centre MP Evan Solomon.

Guided by Andrea Chrisjohn of Council Fire, Indigenous youth spoke candidly about the challenges they face every day, including access to safe and affordable housing, mental health supports, food security, and the preservation of their language and culture. They emphasized the importance of being included in decisions that affect their lives and communities, showing a strong commitment to shaping a future where youth voices are not just heard but actively drive meaningful change.

Terra Roy, an Anishinaabe Nation representative on the Ontario First Nations Young Peoples Council, stressed the importance of amplifying youth perspectives and creating spaces where their concerns can be heard and acted upon.

Toronto Council Fire, located in the heart of Regent Park, empowers Indigenous youth through mentorship, cultural programming, and leadership opportunities. For youth in Regent Park, these programs are more than support—they are a chance to connect with tradition, develop skills, and build confidence while shaping the neighbourhood’s future.

Through gatherings like this, Indigenous youth in Regent Park are not just speaking—they are helping guide the city toward a more inclusive and culturally aware future.