Work

Assembly of First Nations

The Assembly of First Nations (AFN) turned to Bluesky Strategy Group for support on some of the most sensitive and high-profile issues facing First Nations in Canada. With a focus on reconciliation, justice, and advocacy, Bluesky worked closely with the AFN to provide strategic advice, media relations, and communications support during a critical time of historic events and nation-to-nation dialogue.
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What We Delivered

Bluesky Strategy Group’s work with the AFN demonstrates the power of timely, thoughtful, and culturally grounded communications. Key areas of contribution include:

  • Papal Apology & Vatican Visit: Bluesky played an active role in the planning and communications around both the Rome visit and the Pope’s trip to Canada. A Bluesky team member accompanied former National Chief Phil Fontaine, delivering media relations support that secured coverage in major national and international outlets, including The New York Times, Associated Press, and The Washington Post.

  • Child and Family Services Settlement: Bluesky provided strategic counsel and communications support to Regional Chief Cindy Woodhouse during the negotiations surrounding the historic $40B settlement addressing systemic discrimination in the First Nations child welfare system. This included tailored media training, strategic messaging, and ongoing proactive and reactive media engagement.

  • Ongoing Strategic Communications: Through high-stakes moments, Bluesky has served as a trusted advisor to the AFN leadership, helping to shape narratives, prepare spokespeople, and ensure clarity and confidence in the national conversation.

By combining deep respect for the AFN’s voice and mandate with communications expertise, Bluesky has helped bring Indigenous perspectives to the forefront of national and international attention, supporting truth, reconciliation, and systemic change.

Bluesky Principal Susan Smith with National Chief Phil Fontaine at the Vatican.