Communications & Registrar’s Office
Registrar’s Office
The Registrar’s Office is responsible for managing the official records of the First Nation. This includes maintaining membership and citizenship lists, processing applications for new members, updating demographic information, and ensuring records are accurate, confidential, and compliant with the Nation’s laws and policies. The office often supports elections, governance processes, and community verification needs by providing reliable, up‑to‑date information. By safeguarding these core records, the Registrar’s Office helps protect the integrity of the Nation’s membership and supports effective administration.
Acho Dene Koe First Nation is currently recognized as a Section 11 Band under the Indian Act, which means it operates under specific federal regulations. The Nation uses a custom electoral system, allowing it to establish its own rules for leadership selection rather than following the default government process.
Section 11 of the Indian Act establishes the criteria for membership on band lists administered by the Indian Registrar. Inclusion on these lists is determined by an individual’s eligibility for registration as a status Indian under the Indian Act. Individuals registered under the Act who affiliate with a Band whose lists are maintained by the Indian Registrar automatically attain Band membership. The assessment of family ancestry, specifically whether an individual’s parents or grandparents were members or entitled to membership, forms part of the determination process. Consent of the Band is not required for membership.
A “status Indian” refers to an individual recognized by the federal government as an Indian under the Indian Act, while a “Band” is a group of First Nation people for whom land has been set apart and money is held by the Crown. The “Indian Registrar” is the official responsible for maintaining records of registered individuals. The staff of the Registrar’s Office includes presently one employee the Registrar.
Key Functions of the Registrar’s Office
- Membership Management: One of the primary responsibilities of the Registrar’s Office is the management of membership records. This includes maintaining accurate and comprehensive records of all enrolled members, which is essential for establishing rights, benefits, and responsibilities within the community. The office processes applications for membership, updates record with changes such as births, deaths, and changes in status, and ensures that all information is kept confidential and secure. Membership management is particularly significant, where the criterion for membership is tied to cultural heritage, lineage, and community acceptance. The Registrar’s Office often collaborates with other departments to verify claims and ensure that the community’s governance policies are adhered to.
- Vital Statistics and Record Keeping: The Registrar’s Office is responsible for maintaining vital statistics, which include births, deaths, marriages, and divorces within the community. This function is not only a matter of record-keeping but also serves as a foundation for social services and community planning. Accurate records are essential for various legal and administrative purposes, including the distribution of services and benefits, access to health care, and eligibility for programs.
- Governance Support: The Registrar’s Office plays a vital role in supporting governance structures. This includes managing and archiving official documents such as council meeting minutes, bylaws, and policy documents. The office ensures that these records are accessible to community members who need them for reference or to participate in governance.
- Election Support: The Registrar assists in organizing elections, maintaining the integrity of electoral processes, and ensuring that candidates meet eligibility requirements. By facilitating transparent governance practices, the Registrar’s Office helps to enhance community trust and participation.
- Cultural Preservation: Cultural preservation is a key aspect of the Registrar’s Office’s responsibilities. This includes the archiving of traditional knowledge, language, and history, which are vital for the identity and continuity of the First Nation. The office may collaborate with cultural committees or elders to ensure that cultural practices are documented and honoured. Moreover, the Registrar’s Office often serves as a bridge between the community and external entities, helping to advocate for the recognition of the First Nation’s rights and heritage. This advocacy can include efforts to protect land, resources, and cultural sites.
- Community Services and Resources: Beyond record-keeping and governance, the Registrar’s Office provides a range of community services and resources. This includes facilitating access to social services, education resources, and health services external to Acho Dene Koe First Nation that are typically housed with the Government of Canada, Government of Northwest Territories or its agencies, the Province of British Columbia or the Government of Yukon. Where possible, the office works to connect members with employment opportunities, training programs, and cultural events.
Registrar’s Office Contacts:
- Registrar: Margie Lomen
Location:
Lower Level
1910 Poplar Road
Fort Liard, NT X0G 0A0
Email: registrar@adkfirstnation.ca
Phone: (867) 770-4571 ext. 2
Communications Office:
The Communications Office will be launched in the Spring of 2026 and plays a vital role in connecting the First Nation with its members and the wider public. Through community engagement, cultural promotion, advocacy, and crisis communication, the office ensures that members’ voices are heard and their needs are supported. As the Nation navigates modern governance and community development, effective communication remains essential.
The office is committed to transparency, inclusivity, and timely information‑sharing. By maintaining clear communication channels and supporting meaningful engagement, it helps build unity, strengthen trust, and advance the Nation’s long‑term goals. This work supports positive development and reinforces the rights, culture, and well‑being of the community. The office includes a Coordinator.
Key Functions of the Communications Office
- Member Engagement and Support: One of the primary responsibilities of the Communications and Membership Office is to keep community members informed and engaged. This involves disseminating information about events, programs, and services available to members using various platforms such as newsletters, social media, and community meetings. The office ensures that all members, including those living off reserve, stay connected and involved. Additionally, it provides support services for members, helping them navigate resources related to health, education, and employment.
- Member Engagement and Support: One of the primary responsibilities of the Communications and Membership Office is to keep community members informed and engaged. This involves disseminating information about events, programs, and services available to members using various platforms such as newsletters, social media, and community meetings. The office ensures that all members, including those living off reserve (out of home community), stay connected and involved. Additionally, it provides support services for members, helping them navigate resources related to health, education, and employment.
- Cultural Preservation and Promotion: First Nations have rich cultural heritages that deserve to be celebrated and preserved. The Communications and Membership Office play a crucial role in promoting cultural events, traditions, and languages through storytelling, public events, and educational programs. By documenting and sharing cultural practices, the office fosters a sense of identity and pride within the community, ensuring younger generations remain connected to their roots.
- Advocacy and Representation: The Communications and Membership Office often serve as the voice of the First Nation, advocating for its rights and interests at local, regional, and national levels. This includes liaising with government bodies, NGOs, and other stakeholders to ensure that the community’s needs and perspectives are represented. The office may address issues related to land rights, resource management, and social justice, prioritizing the community’s interests in decision-making processes.
- Crisis Communication: In times of crisis, such as natural disasters, health emergencies, or social issues, the Communications and Membership Office manage communication. It disseminates accurate and timely information to ensure the safety and well-being of community members and coordinates responses to address immediate needs while keeping the community informed about developments and recovery efforts.
- Building Partnerships: The office plays a key role in building and maintaining relationships with external organizations, including government agencies, academic institutions, and other First Nations. By fostering partnerships, the Communications and Membership Office can secure resources, share best practices, and collaborate on initiatives that benefit the community. These partnerships facilitate knowledge sharing and provide opportunities for funding and grants.
- Feedback and Continuous Improvement: A successful Communications and Membership Office actively seek feedback from community members to improve its services and communication strategies. Regular surveys, community forums, and focus groups provide valuable insights into the community’s needs and preferences, ensuring the office remains responsive and accountable to its members.
- Technology and Innovation: In today’s digital age, leveraging technology is crucial for effective communication. The Communications and Membership Office adopt innovative tools and platforms to enhance its outreach, such as developing a user-friendly website, creating mobile applications, or utilizing social media to engage with members, particularly youth. Embracing technology allows the office to reach a broader audience and adapt to changing communication preferences.
Communications Office Contacts:
- Coordinator: Sherry Logan (Contracted)
Location:
Beaver Enterprises Building,
Lower Level
1910 Poplar Road
Fort Liard, NT X0G 0A0
Email: communications@adkfirstnation.ca
Phone: (867) 770-4571 ext. 2