BIMAADZWIN

WHO WE ARE

Bimaadzwin – which means “life” or “good path” in Anishinaabe – was incorporated in July 2018 by former Ontario Regional Chief Isadore Day. The driving purpose of Bimaadzwin is to Advance Our Nations through Nation Building.


Our Peoples need to create happy, healthy communities through self-governance and economic development that focuses on First Nation jurisdiction. We are the land. There is much work to be done with government, business, and society to improve outcomes in all areas – economic, health, governance, and justice.


Bimaadzwin is here to assist our Peoples in doing the work necessary to begin building better lives now, and to create a legacy of prosperity for our children.

The use, connection and control of land is by far the most fundamentally central, and critical struggle faced by Indigenous Peoples on Turtle Island and across the planet. In the 21st Century, many intersecting issues, policy discussions, and opportunities arise out of key relationships to land once fully occupied by Indigenous Peoples.

Social issues and impacts of colonial control of Nations of Indigenous Peoples since the time of contact are numerous, insidious and undeniably at the crux of the reconciliation movement in Canada. Situational to the legacy of Indian Residential Schools and Indian Policy Stemming from the 18th century – the influence of outside cultures and social structures are the undoing of successful treaty implementation between the settler society and Indigenous Peoples.

Every Nation since the dawn of time carries with it a history of an innate struggle for wellbeing and livelihood. Indigenous Peoples in Canada had similar struggles that all societies have, prior to contact – i.e., conflict and unrest among tribal relations – but also, strong trade networks, systems and ties to the land – all resulted in elaborate treaty – making protocols and principles. Central to our treaty principles is the core imperative of sharing our resources.  This important element will underpin our shared and sustainable economies.

Our Peoples signed Treaties to share the land and wealth with the newcomers as equals. In order to regain our sovereignty and rights as Nations, First Nations must break free of the Indian Act and the current welfare state mentality. Every one of our First Nation Children is born with something that mainstream Children do not, or will ever have – the “Seed of Sovereignty.” This must be nurtured, protected, and extended to every unborn generation. We must exercise our Treaty rights, we must occupy our ancestral lands, and we must use our Indigenous customs, practices, languages – and our Laws. This is the only way to protect our Sovereignty and advance our Nations for the Next Generation.

The use, connection and control of land is by far the most fundamentally central, and critical struggle faced by Indigenous Peoples on Turtle Island and across the planet. In the 21st Century, many intersecting issues, policy discussions, and opportunities arise out of key relationships to land once fully occupied by Indigenous Peoples.

Social issues and impacts of colonial control of Nations of Indigenous Peoples since the time of contact are numerous, insidious and undeniably at the crux of the reconciliation movement in Canada. Situational to the legacy of Indian Residential Schools and Indian Policy Stemming from the 18th century – the influence of outside cultures and social structures are the undoing of successful treaty implementation between the settler society and Indigenous Peoples.

Every Nation since the dawn of time carries with it a history of an innate struggle for wellbeing and livelihood. Indigenous Peoples in Canada had similar struggles that all societies have, prior to contact – i.e., conflict and unrest among tribal relations – but also, strong trade networks, systems and ties to the land – all resulted in elaborate treaty – making protocols and principles. Central to our treaty principles is the core imperative of sharing our resources.  This important element will underpin our shared and sustainable economies.

Our Peoples signed Treaties to share the land and wealth with the newcomers as equals. In order to regain our sovereignty and rights as Nations, First Nations must break free of the Indian Act and the current welfare state mentality. Every one of our First Nation Children is born with something that mainstream Children do not, or will ever have – the “Seed of Sovereignty.” This must be nurtured, protected, and extended to every unborn generation. We must exercise our Treaty rights, we must occupy our ancestral lands, and we must use our Indigenous customs, practices, languages – and our Laws. This is the only way to protect our Sovereignty and advance our Nations for the Next Generation.

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“Our focus is to advance our Nations and to uphold the inheritance of our children in Land, People and Prosperity.”

Isadore Day, Wiindawtegowinini
Founder + CEO

Nationhood Trends & Insights

Honouring Indigenous Women on International Women’s Day

By Bimaadzwin Team • March 4, 2025
Every year on March 8th, International Women’s Day (IWD) provides a time for reflection, celebration, and action. It is a day to recognize the achievements of women worldwide while also acknowledging the continued struggles for equality, justice, and empowerment.  For Indigenous women and girls in Canada, this day holds particular significance, as it sheds light on their resilience, leadership, and the urgent need to address the challenges they face. Honouring Strength and Leadership Indigenous women have always been at the heart of their communities, serving as leaders, caregivers, knowledge keepers, and warriors for justice. Across Turtle Island, Indigenous women have upheld traditions, protected the land, and nurtured the spirits of future generations. Their strength is evident in their roles as Elders, educators, artists, and advocates who continue to push for positive change. Today, Indigenous women are leading movements for environmental protection, human rights, and cultural revitalization. Indigenous women are leaders who are key to reclaiming traditional governance systems, advancing language preservation, and strengthening Indigenous economies. Their voices and leadership are crucial to building a future that respects Indigenous knowledge and self-determination. Recognizing the Challenges While International Women’s Day is a time of celebration, it is also a day to acknowledge the systemic barriers Indigenous women continue to face. In Canada, Indigenous women and girls experience higher rates of violence, poverty, and discrimination compared to non-Indigenous women. The crisis of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG) continues as an urgent issue, highlighting the ongoing impacts of colonialism and the need for meaningful action. The National Inquiry into MMIWG (2019) called for immediate responses to address the root causes of this violence, including systemic racism, gender-based violence, and economic marginalization. Yet, years later, many of these Calls for Justice remain unmet. On IWD, it is essential to amplify Indigenous women’s voices and demand concrete steps toward justice, safety, and healing. Celebrating Indigenous Women’s Contributions Despite all of these challenges, Indigenous women continue to inspire change. They are creating new opportunities for future generations. Their contributions to literature, film, politics, business, and activism are shaping a more just and inclusive society. International Women’s Day is an opportunity to support and uplift Indigenous women’s work. Whether it’s purchasing from Indigenous women-owned businesses, engaging with Indigenous-led initiatives, or educating oneself on Indigenous histories and perspectives , every action contributes to reconciliation and empowerment. Moving Forward with Respect and Action As we celebrate International Women’s Day , let us recognize the unique experiences and contributions of Indigenous women and girls. Their resilience and leadership are essential to creating a more just world—one where Indigenous women are safe, respected, and valued. To truly honour this day, we must commit to listening, learning, and acting in support of Indigenous women. That means advocating for policies that protect Indigenous women’s rights, addressing gender-based violence, and ensuring Indigenous women have the space and resources to thrive . This March 8th let us together not just celebrate women—let’s stand with Indigenous women, acknowledge their voices, and work toward a future of equality, respect, and justice for all.

Understanding Jordan's Principle: Accessing Supports for Indigenous Families

By Bimaadzwin Team • December 18, 2024
Message from Bimaadzwin CEO, Isadore Day

Forward from Bimaadzwin CEO, Isadore Day

By Bimaadzwin Team • December 18, 2024
At Bimaadzwin, we stand with First Nations families and communities in seeking justice and healing for the harms caused by discriminatory systems. The First Nations Child and Family Services and Jordan’s Principle Settlement is an important step forward in addressing the historic inequities that have deeply impacted our children and families. As we look toward the opening of the Claims Period in 2025, this is a time for preparation and reflection. It is an opportunity to acknowledge the strength of our people and the importance of ensuring every child and family receives the compensation and supports they deserve. We encourage all eligible Class Members to access the resources available and take the steps needed to prepare for the Claims Process. Together, we can move forward in our shared journey of healing, equity, and reconciliation. Isadore Day CEO, Bimaadzwin  Settlement Update: Claims Process for First Nations Child and Family Services and Jordan’s Principle Settlement Class Members of the First Nations Child and Family Services and Jordan’s Principle Settlement will be able to submit their claims for compensation beginning March 10, 2025 . Who Can Submit Claims in the First Period? The initial Claims Period will open for two of the nine Classes included in the Settlement: Removed Child Class : First Nations individuals who were removed from their homes as children between April 1, 1991, and March 31, 2022 , while living on reserve or in the Yukon, and placed into care funded by Indigenous Services Canada. Removed Child Family Class : The caregiving parents or caregiving grandparents of these children. Compensation will not be available until the Claims Period opens. At that time, Class Members will need to submit a Claim Form to the Settlement Administrator to begin the process. Key Deadlines for Submitting Claims Adults (Age of Majority as of March 10, 2025) : Have three years from the Claims Period opening date to submit their claims. Minors (under the Age of Majority as of March 10, 2025) : Will have three years from the date they reach the Age of Majority to submit their claims. How to Prepare for the Claims Period David Sterns, Class Counsel and partner at Sotos LLP, advises Class Members to begin preparing now for the Claims Period by ensuring they have: Government-Issued Identification : Verify your ID is up-to-date. A Reliable Mailing Address : For correspondence related to your claim. A Bank Account : Ensure it is in your name so compensation can be deposited directly. Free Resources and Support Class Members will not need to pay anyone to help submit their claims or receive compensation. Several free resources will be available: Contact Centre : Open now at 1-833-852-0755 (Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET, excluding statutory holidays). This service will expand when the Claims Period opens. Claims Helpers : Available once the Claims Period begins, they will provide one-on-one support in completing Claim Forms virtually or in-person where available. They can also connect Class Members with local services and wellness resources. Online Information : Visit the First Nations Child and Family Services and Jordan’s Principle website for updates and detailed guidance. Mental Health and Crisis Support Acknowledging the emotional impact of this process, Class Members can access 24/7 mental health and crisis support through: Hope for Wellness Helpline : Call 1-855-242-3310 or visit the Hope for Wellness website. Services are available in English, French, Cree, and Ojibway upon request. Kids Help Phone : Youth can call 1-800-668-6868 or text FIRSTNATIONS to 686868 for support. Looking Ahead The First Nations Child and Family Services and Jordan’s Principle Settlement is more than a legal agreement—it is an acknowledgment of the harm done to First Nations children and families and a commitment to repair and rebuild. For those planning to submit claims, preparation is key. Begin now by gathering documents and verifying your information. Support is available every step of the way to ensure the process is as smooth as possible. For further questions, Class Members can contact the Settlement Administrator at 1-833-852-0755 or visit the official website for updates. For First Nations Leadership if Bimaadzwin can assist in this effort for your community members please contact us at https://www.bimaadzwin.ca/contact or call (705) 849-8796.
Bimaadzwin News

Working as a catalyst, Bimaadzwin executes the following mandate:

Evaluating opportunity, strategic planning. facilitating and establishing partnerships, amongst First Nations, Public and Private entities.