Assembly of First Nations chief says focus in new year is on unity after a divisive first year of leadership

After a year that saw division among First Nations chiefs over a failed multi-billion-dollar child-welfare agreement with Canada, the National Chief of the Assembly of First Nations is focused on unity and re-establishing the organization as a strong voice for First Nations.National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak, originally from Pinaymootang First Nation in Manitoba, was elected a year ago to lead the organization that advocates and lobbies for over 600 diverse First Nations. She is the second woman to hold the title of National Chief after RoseAnne Archibald was removed over allegations of bullying and harassing staff.