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To the Board of Directors, Staff, Members, and Community of Niagara Regional Native Centre,

We, the undersigned members and concerned community members, call upon the leadership of Niagara Regional Native Centre (NRNC) to take urgent action to address significant concerns regarding financial practices, operations, board and staff conduct, and membership procedures. Transparency, accountability, and the well-being of the community must be prioritized to maintain trust and fulfill the Centre’s mission.

Our concerns are as follows:

1. Financial Management

 • Bylaw 32 & AGM Compliance: Concerns have been raised about financial mismanagement and a lack of transparency in financial reporting. Bylaw 32 requires that the Annual General Meeting (AGM) occur within 90 days of the fiscal year-end. We call for a full disclosure of financial records and an explanation for any delays or inconsistencies in compliance.

2. Operational Concerns

 • Program Shutdowns and Service Reduction: Essential programs have been shut down or significantly reduced, depriving community members of vital services. We urge the Centre to prioritize the restoration of programs that benefit Elders, youth, and families.

 • Nepotism and Program Accessibility: Instances of nepotism in hiring practices and barriers to accessing programs have been observed. We call for fair and transparent hiring practices and equal access to programs, as outlined in Bylaw 58, to ensure equal opportunities for all.

3. Board and Staff Conduct

 • Violence and Misconduct: Reports of lateral, physical, and emotional violence involving Board members and staff are deeply concerning. Such behaviour is unacceptable and jeopardizes the safety and well-being of the Centre. We demand an independent investigation into these allegations and immediate measures to foster a safe and respectful environment.

4. Membership Procedures

 • Lack of Clear Definitions and Legislative Guidance: The current membership processes lack transparency, with no clear definitions or legislative references provided. We call for a transparent review of membership criteria to ensure inclusivity and accessibility.

 • Low Membership Numbers: We question why membership numbers are low and request a review of membership policies to identify and address potential barriers.

5. Compliance with the Ontario Not-for-Profit Corporations Act (ONCA)

 • Regulatory Compliance: The Centre must ensure compliance with the Ontario Not-for-Profit Corporations Act. Transparency in governance and adherence to ONCA regulations are essential for maintaining the integrity of the organization.

We request that the Niagara Regional Native Centre take the following actions:

 1. Provide a detailed response to the concerns listed above, including actions being taken to address financial, operational, board, staff, and membership issues.

 2. Commit to holding a public, members-led community meeting within 21 days, in accordance with ONCA, to discuss these concerns openly and work collaboratively towards a plan for meaningful improvements.

 3. Ensure that independent reviews and investigations are carried out where necessary, with findings shared publicly to promote transparency and accountability.

The Niagara Regional Native Centre is a vital hub for culture, support, and unity. It is essential that the Centre operates with integrity, transparency, and a commitment to serving the community. We stand united in our call for solutions and respectfully request that these concerns be addressed urgently.

Sincerely,

The Undersigned Community Members of Niagara Regional Native Centre

Any members who have concerns should direct them in writing to:

 • Dawn Moughtin, Executive Director, at executivedirector@nrnc.ca

 • Sean VanderKlis, Board President, at sean.vanderklis@nrnc.ca

 • Roxanne Buck, Vice President, at roxanne.buck@nrnc.ca

This petition represents the collective voice of the community in seeking transparency, accountability, and positive change. Together, we can ensure that the Niagara Regional Native Centre remains a place where all members are respected, supported, and heard. Let us come together to build a stronger, united Centre for everyone.