Treaty One Nations Welcomes New Executive Director Jason Whitford

Anishinaabe Leader and Community Advocate Steps into Key Role Guiding Treaty One’s Next Chapter

Treaty One Territory, August 5, 2025 – The Treaty One Nations is pleased to announce the appointment of Jason Whitford as the new Executive Director, effective August 5, 2025.

A proud member of Sandy Bay Ojibway First Nation, Jason Whitford brings more than 30 years of experience serving First Nation and Indigenous communities across Manitoba. Most recently for the past four years, Jason worked as President and CEO of End Homelessness Winnipeg, where he led strategic initiatives focused on housing, wellness, and reconciliation.

Jason’s career spans leadership roles in training, employment, youth programming, child welfare, suicide prevention, property development and urban Indigenous strategies. His previous experience includes Executive Director of Shawenim Abinoojii and Program Manager at the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs’ Eagle Urban Transition Centre.

“On behalf of the Treaty One Nations, I want to officially welcome Jason Whitford into this critical leadership role,” said Chief Gordon BlueSky, Chairperson of the Treaty One Nations and Chief of Brokenhead Ojibway Nation. “Jason brings a strong mix of operational experience, cultural grounding, and community-driven values that will serve our Nations well. His commitment to our people, and to the principles of unity and self-determination, aligns perfectly with the vision we are working towards at Treaty One.”

Jason succeeds Jolene Mercer, who served as Executive Director until May 2025 and was instrumental in major milestones such as the repatriation of Naawi-Oodena, the ratification of the Treaty One Joint Reserve Land Code, and the successful negotiation of the Gaawijijigemangit Agreement (Municipal Development Services Agreement) partnership with the City of Winnipeg.

“I’m honoured to join the Treaty One Nations at such an important time,” said Jason Whitford. “Our Nations are taking historic steps toward sovereignty and self-determined growth, and I look forward to working with our leadership, staff, and communities to continue building that future together.”

As a current member of the boards of the Canadian Alliance to End Homelessness and Manitoba Tipi Mitawa, Jason has consistently prioritized strong and meaningful relationships to advance ongoing issues.

Jason has maintained strong community ties and a deep connection to traditional values through his engagement with Elders, participation in ceremonies, involvement in land-based activities, and commitment to family. Married to Cora, Jason is blessed with four children—Anthony, Zayna, Alec, and Anders.