Assembly of First Nations chiefs agreed to set their differences aside and demand Canada immediately compensate people harmed by the underfunded on-reserve child-welfare system, in an 11th hour show of unity on Wednesday night in Ottawa.

Delegates gathered for the AFN's annual winter assembly heard impassioned pleas as they mulled whether to back a $20-billion class-action settlement agreement or the Canadian Human Rights Tribunal, which refused to approve the deal.

But following an intervention from retired senator and former Truth and Reconciliation Commission chair Murray Sinclair, the chiefs agreed to combine competing resolutions and present the Canadian government with a unified front.

The new resolution, which passed following hugs and tears, urged Canada to place "the minimum of $20 billion" earmarked for compensation into an interest-bearing account — and then immediately compensate all victims covered by both the tribunal's rulings and the class action.

"I want to say how honoured I am that we were able to bring together the children and families — those who have been hurt by Canada," said Cindy Blackstock, executive director of the First Nations Child and Family Caring Society as she received a standing ovation for her dedication to the cause.

Earlier in the day, Carolyn Buffalo, one of the lead plaintiffs advancing the class action, was also met with applause as she urged the chiefs to "put politics aside" and do what's best for children.

"This is not about any one of us. It's not about any one person. It is not about any organization. It's about the kids and their families," she said.

"So let's get this done. No fighting."

Buffalo's son Noah Buffalo-Jackson, another lead plaintiff, has cerebral palsy and requires a wheelchair, round-the-clock care and special equipment in his home.