Top Stories
Class action alleges abuse, cultural devastation at Canadian Indigenous group homes: A class-action lawsuit has been filed against the Canadian government, alleging systemic abuse and cultural harm inflicted on Indigenous children placed in group homes from the 1960s to the 1980s. The plaintiffs claim that these placements led to loss of cultural identity and exposure to physical and emotional abuse, seeking redress for the lasting impacts on survivors and their communities.
Additional reading: Class-action alleges abuse, cultural devastation at Canadian Indigenous group homes
Canada Post strike could be a blow to Indigenous businesses shipping to remote communities: The ongoing Canada Post strike is creating significant challenges for Indigenous business owners, particularly those in remote communities. Mariah Battiste, the owner of Sundaylace Creations, a bead store in Eskasoni First Nation, Nova Scotia, typically ships 100 packages weekly through Canada Post. However, the strike has forced her to seek alternative methods, such as driving long distances to courier drop-off sites. Indigenous customers in northern areas like the Northwest Territories face skyrocketing shipping costs, with fees rising from $19.99 to $60, potentially driving customers away. Experts warn that the impacts of the strike will disproportionately affect rural Indigenous communities, where courier services are often unavailable or too costly. Small businesses, especially those selling Indigenous-made products, may face long-term consequences if the strike persists, including the loss of customers and lower sales during the holiday season.
Employment Minister Randy Boissonnault resigns from cabinet: Randy Boissonnault has resigned from Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s cabinet amid controversies regarding his claims of Indigenous heritage and business dealings. The resignation follows revelations that Boissonnault falsely claimed his great-grandmother was a “full-blooded Cree woman” and faced scrutiny over his former medical supply company, which allegedly misrepresented itself as Indigenous-owned when bidding for federal contracts. Trudeau announced the decision, stating that Boissonnault will focus on clearing the allegations against him, while Veterans Affairs Minister Ginette Petitpas Taylor will temporarily take over his responsibilities. The resignation comes after increasing pressure from opposition parties and criticism from within the Indigenous community regarding his identity claims and business practices.
New cabinet ready to deliver on the priorities of British Columbians: On November 18, 2024, Premier David Eby appointed a new cabinet focused on addressing key challenges in British Columbia. The cabinet combines both experienced leaders and fresh perspectives, with a focus on affordability, housing, healthcare, and strengthening local communities. The new team aims to meet the province’s evolving needs while ensuring a vibrant and sustainable economy.
Additional reading: Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation Honourable Christine Boyle
Claims, Settlements and Litigation
Quebec First Nation says government, Hydro-Québec left it out of wind projects: The Huron-Wendat Nation has filed a legal application against the Quebec government and Hydro-Québec, alleging exclusion from consultations on four proposed wind projects south of the St. Lawrence River. This action highlights ongoing territorial disputes and the necessity for inclusive engagement with Indigenous communities in energy developments.
National chief says ICC should probe disappearances of children from residential schools: Assembly of First Nations National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak advocates for the International Criminal Court to investigate the disappearances of Indigenous children from residential schools, citing Canada’s failure to provide necessary records. Special Interlocutor Kimberly Murray supports this call, highlighting daily crimes against humanity in these institutions.
Manitoba made ‘political compromise’ by cutting moose draw licences in some areas, lawyer argues: The Manitoba government reduced moose hunting licences for non-Indigenous hunters by 75% in certain northern regions, a decision challenged by both the Manitoba Wildlife Federation and Pimicikamak Cree Nation. The federation argues the reduction lacks scientific basis, while Pimicikamak contends it infringes on their treaty rights. The case underscores the complexities of balancing conservation efforts with Indigenous rights and hunting interests.
Additional reading: First Nation’s moose hunting case to make ‘new case law’ in Manitoba, lawyers say as hearings conclude
Cariboo Gold Project, Canada: Osisko Development is facing potential legal challenges over its Cariboo gold project. The Xatśūll First Nation near Williams Lake has called for a halt to the mine permitting process until its concerns are addressed. The First Nation claims negotiations with Osisko have been “unproductive,” with “very minimal progress” made in addressing the Nation’s concerns. It has warned that any permits issued without addressing the Nation’s concerns would be “highly vulnerable to legal challenges.” Referring to the Tsilhqot’in case, Phillips noted that the Supreme Court of Canada ruled that the Crown may be required to halt a project if it started without Indigenous consent, particularly if continued development unjustifiably infringed on Aboriginal title.
Locked out: How a 19th-century land grant is still undermining First Nations rights on Vancouver Island: The Hul’qumi’num Nations of Vancouver Island continue to fight for redress over 800,000 hectares of land appropriated in the 1880s to fund a railway, which was later sold to timber companies. The land, now primarily controlled by companies like Mosaic Forest Management, was once rich with resources that sustained the Hul’qumi’num peoples, but these resources have been depleted due to logging and environmental degradation. Despite decades of negotiations, the B.C. government maintains that private land will not be included in treaty negotiations, leaving the nations without a fair resolution. The Hul’qumi’num Treaty Group has explored options like co-management and revenue-sharing, but these have been rejected by the province. In 2007, the group took the issue to the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights, framing the land loss as a human rights violation, but they are still awaiting a ruling. The federal government has recently signaled a willingness to discuss compensation, though how to fairly calculate this remains a complex challenge.
Federal compensation coming for Nunavik sled dog slaughter victims: The federal government has agreed to compensate the Inuit of Nunavik for the government-led killing of sled dogs in the 1950s and 1960s. The slaughter, which involved the killing of over 1,000 dogs, was aimed at discouraging traditional hunting methods and was carried out without proper consultation with the Inuit. The Makivik Corporation, representing the Nunavik Inuit, has long advocated for compensation and a formal apology. A federal apology is expected in the coming months, alongside compensation, acknowledging the profound impact on Inuit culture and livelihoods.
Initialling of Final Self-Government Agreement for the Tłegǫ́hłı̨ Got’įnę marks an important step in Nation-to-Nation relationship: On November 19, 2024, negotiators from the Tłegǫ́hłı̨ Got’įnę Government Inc., the Government of the Northwest Territories, and Canada initialed the draft Final Self-Government Agreement for the Tłegǫ́hłı̨ Got’įnę in Ottawa. This milestone signifies progress toward self-government for the Sahtu Dene and Métis of Norman Wells, enabling them to exercise their inherent right of self-government. The agreement outlines how the Tłegǫ́hłı̨ Got’įnę Government will operate, marking a significant step in advancing reconciliation and ensuring that Indigenous Peoples have the tools and resources to govern in a way that reflects their priorities and aspirations.
Ex-official speaks out about alleged racism at Indian Oil and Gas Canada: A former official at Indian Oil and Gas Canada (IOGC), Yvette Zentner, is suing the agency over allegations of systemic racial discrimination and harassment. Zentner, a member of the Siksika Nation, claims she faced racism, including being denied training and promotions, and experienced harassment by a superior. She worked at IOGC for 27 years before retiring in May 2024. Zentner is one of two lead plaintiffs in a proposed class-action lawsuit against IOGC. The federal government has rejected the case, arguing that internal grievance mechanisms should address such issues.
Environment, Energy & Economic Development
Canadian Indigenous groups seek deals with China despite security fears: Indigenous leaders from Canada are in Beijing with the Canada China Business Council to explore partnerships in energy and other sectors. Despite concerns raised by Canadian security services about China’s influence and potential access to resource-rich areas, leaders like Karen Ogen of the First Nations LNG Alliance prioritize economic opportunities to benefit their communities. This initiative highlights the tension between economic reconciliation for First Nations and national security policies.
Ontario Completes Building Highway Upgrades at the Gateway to the Ring of Fire: The Ontario government has completed critical highway infrastructure improvements in the Greenstone area, enhancing connections to the provincial highway network for First Nations communities. These upgrades support ongoing efforts to unlock the economic potential of Ontario’s critical minerals in the Ring of Fire region. The progress includes replacing seven culverts on Highway 584 in 2024, with additional replacements and pavement rehabilitation planned through 2027. The development of the Migizi Plaza Rest Stop is also underway, aiming to serve First Nation members, tourists, and residents while creating jobs and driving revenue for First Nations and the Municipality of Greenstone.
‘Historic’ signing between Okanagan-Similkameen First Nations, local governments: On November 15, 2024, elected leaders from Okanagan and Similkameen First Nations and local governments signed a Memorandum of Agreement to protect water resources. This agreement is part of a broader effort to ensure environmental stewardship in the region. It is one of four similar agreements in Canada focused on safeguarding water for future generations.
Additional reading: ‘Monumental’ partnership: Syilx Chiefs and Okanagan-Silmilkameen leaders gather to sign historic agreement to protect local water
ABPA Releases Groundbreaking Report on Canada’s Greenhouse Gas Offset Credit System in Northern Ontario: The Anishnawbe Business Professional Association (ABPA) has published a comprehensive report titled “Facilitating Projects on Crown and Public Lands in Canada’s Greenhouse Gas Offset Credit System: A Northern Ontario Focus.” The report emphasizes the leadership role of First Nations in implementing carbon credit and nature-based climate solutions, highlighting challenges and providing 18 recommendations to enhance the Improved Forest Management protocol for public lands. Key recommendations include recognizing First Nations’ carbon rights, ensuring Indigenous leadership in public land projects, and guaranteeing Free, Prior, and Informed Consent from rights-holders.
Ottawa must eliminate tokenism from Indigenous procurement program, says Indigenous business leader: An Indigenous business leader has called on the federal government to address tokenism within its procurement program, emphasizing the need to prevent non-Indigenous companies from exploiting the system. This highlights the importance of genuine engagement and support for Indigenous businesses in federal procurement processes.
Toxicologist calls Fort Chip contamination assessment ‘essentially useless’: An independent toxicologist has criticized a federal assessment of contamination at Fort Chipewyan’s Transport Canada dock, stating it failed to consider how community members use the area for fishing, swimming, and harvesting traditional plants. The 2017 risk assessment, conducted by Millennium EMS Solutions Ltd., found toxic hydrocarbons, metals, and compounds exceeding provincial guidelines but did not account for Indigenous land use practices. Transport Canada maintains that the contamination is unlikely to pose health risks, but local First Nations leaders dispute this claim, emphasizing the need for assessments that reflect their traditional activities.
Massive $375M Indigenous-led conservation partnership set to be signed in Behchokǫ̀: A significant Indigenous-led conservation initiative in the Northwest Territories, known as the Project Finance for Permanence (PFP), is set to receive $375 million in funding. This partnership aims to provide long-term protection and stewardship of lands and waters, supporting Indigenous-led healthy communities and local economies. The PFP model brings together governments and philanthropic organizations to ensure sustainable conservation efforts.
Additional reading: Indigenous groups, government and industry launch $375-million for conservation initiatives
Minister Anandasangaree joins partners to announce next steps in Indigenous-led conservation in the Northwest Territories
Arctic policy among priorities at Inuit and federal leaders meeting
Northwest B.C. First Nations take renewable energy projects to COP29: The First Nations Climate Initiative (FNCI) is participating in COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan, to showcase progress on renewable energy projects in northwest British Columbia. FNCI aims to advocate for policy and regulatory changes that support large net-zero infrastructure projects, promote economic development through partnerships, and advance reconciliation with First Nations.
Additional reading: First Nations climate organization joins COP29 Canadian delegation
Canada Infrastructure Bank closes $35M deal on Indigenous solar project: The Canada Infrastructure Bank (CIB) has finalized a $35-million loan agreement with the Nlaka’pamux Nation Tribal Council (NNTC) and BluEarth Renewables to develop the quA-ymn solar project near Kamloops, British Columbia. This 15-megawatt solar power plant, the first of its scale in the province, will utilize 38,000 fixed-tilt photovoltaic panels to generate renewable energy sufficient to power over 2,000 homes annually. The project is part of CIB’s initiative to invest $1 billion in Indigenous clean power projects, aiming to foster economic growth and sustainable energy development within First Nations communities.
Inuit-Crown Partnership Committee Leaders Meet to Advance Shared Priorities Towards a More Prosperous Inuit Nunangat: In November 2024, Inuit leaders and Canadian government officials convened in Ottawa to discuss progress on shared priorities, including the co-development of a federal policy on Inuit K-12 education and the creation of an Inuit Nunangat University. The meeting also addressed Arctic foreign policy, food security, healthcare system racism, and the implementation of the Inuit Nunangat Policy.
Canada Boosts Sault Ste. Marie’s Industrial Innovation with nearly $600,000 Investment:The Government of Canada has invested $597,473 in Sault College of Applied Arts and Technology to enhance applied research and training in automation, advanced manufacturing, robotics, and information and communication technology. This funding aims to foster innovation and strengthen industrial capabilities in the region.
NTI ponders $286-million worth of affordable housing: Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated (NTI) is considering a $286-million investment in affordable housing, utilizing federal funds allocated to Nunavut. The initiative aims to address the housing shortage by providing culturally suitable, affordable rental options that are not tied to employment.
Being Anishinaabe in the oil and gas sector has its challenges: An Anishinaabe professional reflects on the complexities of working in the oil and gas industry, balancing cultural identity with career advancement. The article discusses the challenges of maintaining traditional values while engaging in sectors that may conflict with environmental and cultural principles. It emphasizes the importance of fostering inclusive workplaces that respect and integrate Indigenous perspectives.
New Indigenous-owned mining royalty company a first in Canada: Nations Royalty Corp., the first mining royalty company majority-owned by Indigenous people, was established in June 2024. The Nisga’a Nation holds a 77% stake in the company, which consolidates royalties from several mining projects into a publicly traded entity. This initiative aims to provide the Nisga’a Nation with sustainable revenue, reducing reliance on government funding. Nations Royalty currently holds royalties from five mining projects in British Columbia’s Golden Triangle and is working to include more Indigenous communities as shareholders. This model offers Indigenous groups a pathway to greater economic autonomy within the mining industry.
Ottawa removed 1,100 companies from Indigenous procurement list: Hajdu: The federal government has removed 1,100 companies from its Indigenous procurement list after investigations revealed that they did not meet the criteria for Indigenous ownership and control. This action follows concerns that some non-Indigenous businesses were exploiting the Procurement Strategy for Indigenous Business (PSIB) by falsely claiming Indigenous status to access government contracts. Minister Patty Hajdu emphasized that these companies no longer fulfilled the necessary requirements, underscoring the government’s commitment to ensuring the integrity of the program, which aims to allocate 5% of federal contracts to Indigenous-owned enterprises.
Programs and Services
‘Historic accomplishment’ for Waywayseecappo’s child and family services: Waywayseecappo First Nation has achieved a significant milestone by establishing its own child and family services agency, marking a historic step toward self-governance and culturally appropriate care for Indigenous children. This initiative aims to reduce the overrepresentation of Indigenous children in the foster care system and ensure that services are delivered in a manner that respects and preserves their cultural heritage.
Southern Chiefs’ Organization announces new health-care scholarships: The Southern Chiefs’ Organization, in partnership with the Business Council of Manitoba and the Province of Manitoba, has announced a $450,000 investment over five years to support First Nations students pursuing health care careers. This initiative aims to address the life expectancy gap between First Nations and other Manitobans by increasing the number of Indigenous health-care professionals.
Indigenous children in foster care should stay in home communities, says head of roundtable:Newfoundland and Labrador is addressing the overrepresentation of Indigenous children in foster care, with one-third of children in care being Indigenous. The province is collaborating with the Innu Nation to ensure culturally informed foster care policies that prioritize keeping children in their communities.
Alberta Treaty Chiefs slam feds after Ottawa denies legal duty to provide safe drinking water: Alberta Treaty Chiefs have criticized the federal government following its legal stance that it has no obligation to provide safe drinking water to First Nations. This position emerged during court proceedings, intensifying concerns over the First Nations Clean Water Act (Bill C-61), which aims to establish national standards for water services on First Nation lands. The Chiefs argue that the Act lacks adequate consultation and shifts responsibility onto First Nations without ensuring sufficient federal support.
Iqaluit food voucher program sees more than 1,000 applications: The City of Iqaluit’s Inuit Child First Initiative food voucher program has received over 1,000 applications within a week of its launch. Funded by Indigenous Services Canada, the program offers $500 per month for each child under 18, with an additional $250 for children under four, to support Inuit families in purchasing food and essential items.
Researchers shed light on the experiences of caregivers in Nunavut’s family service system: A recent study by the Umingmak Centre and the University of Toronto’s Ontario Institute for Studies in Education (OISE) examines the challenges faced by caregivers of children involved in Family Services in Iqaluit, Nunavut. The research identifies systemic issues such as difficulties in information sharing, resource insecurities, caregiver exploitation, and institutional harm. It emphasizes the need for culturally safe support mechanisms and significant reforms in child welfare to better support caregivers and reduce the number of children leaving the territory into the foster care system.
‘Powerful and transformational’ affordable housing project opens in Winnipeg: Raising the Roof, a national charity, has inaugurated its first affordable housing development in Manitoba, located on Mountain Avenue in Winnipeg. The project includes two multi-bedroom apartments for Indigenous families and a basement suite for a young adult transitioning out of foster care. Partner organizations Siloam Mission and Zoongizi Ode Inc. will provide tenant management and support services, respectively. Additionally, Raising the Roof has acquired a 24-unit apartment complex on Young Street for future redevelopment.
BC First Nations Justice Council Receives Funding from Public Safety Canada for Innovative Pre-Charge Diversion Program in Lheidli T’enneh Territory (Prince George, BC):The BC First Nations Justice Council (BCFNJC) has secured a five-year funding commitment from Public Safety Canada to develop and implement a pre-charge diversion pilot program in Prince George, BC. This initiative aims to redirect Indigenous individuals away from the criminal justice system by providing culturally sensitive support services that address underlying issues such as mental health, addictions, and socio-economic challenges. The program emphasizes traditional healing and long-term case management to foster empowerment and reduce repeat offenses.
B.C. rural area wants feds to fix phone issues following wildfires: In July, as wildfires approached several Kootenay communities, Aimee Watson, the Regional District of Central Kootenay’s board chair, realized phone lines were failing. There is no cellphone coverage in the region north of Kaslo, and residents rely instead on landlines and the internet to communicate. Watson calls for federal intervention to improve telecommunications infrastructure in rural areas, especially those prone to natural disasters.
Survey highlights healthcare gaps for Indigenous people, importance of wellness: A recent Statistics Canada survey reveals significant healthcare disparities among Indigenous communities. Notably, 82% of Inuit respondents emphasized the importance of integrating traditional medicine into mainstream healthcare. Additionally, 40% of Inuit reported needing to travel outside their communities for health services, with over half traveling more than 1,500 km. The survey also highlighted that 29% of Inuit experienced unmet healthcare needs, often due to challenges in accessing specialized care. These findings underscore the necessity for culturally relevant healthcare services and improved access to meet the unique needs of Indigenous populations.
Culture & Events
First Nations psychologists from around the world meet in Boorloo: Indigenous psychologists from Australia, Canada, the U.S., and New Zealand convened at the University of Western Australia in Boorloo (Perth) to discuss mental health challenges and share knowledge. The gathering emphasized the importance of culturally informed mental health practices and international collaboration among First Nations professionals.
‘We’ll always remember them’: First Nations soldiers honoured in Mi’kmaq communities : Mi’kmaq communities in the Maritimes honored Indigenous soldiers on Remembrance Day, acknowledging their significant contributions despite historical inequities. Ceremonies in Membertou First Nation and Eskasoni First Nation featured tributes to veterans, including banners and billboards displaying their images, emphasizing the importance of preserving cultural connections and recognizing Indigenous service members.
New $2 coin celebrates ‘vibrant Inuit culture’: The Royal Canadian Mint has released a $2 commemorative coin honoring Inuit Nunangat, featuring a design by four Inuit artists depicting Nuliajuk, the spirit of the sea. This marks the first collaboration of multiple artists on a Canadian circulation coin, symbolizing unity and cultural heritage.
Additional reading: Inuit Nunangat coin does more than tell a story
Haida ancestral teachings help support local fisheries workshops in Skidegate: Since 2021, the Haida Gwaii community of Skidegate has been hosting workshops to encourage First Nations participation in local Albacore tuna subsistence fishing. These workshops integrate Haida ancestral teachings, emphasizing that food prepared with love is both tasty and nutritious. The initiative aims to strengthen community ties and promote sustainable fishing practices rooted in cultural traditions.
Ministers of Northern Affairs, Crown-Indigenous Relations and Indigenous Services Commemorate Louis Riel Day: On November 16, 2024, the Honourable Dan Vandal, Minister of Northern Affairs; the Honourable Gary Anandasangaree, Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations; and the Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Indigenous Services, issued a statement commemorating Louis Riel Day. This day marks the 139th anniversary of Louis Riel’s execution. The ministers acknowledged Riel’s pivotal role as a Métis leader and his significant contributions to the creation of the Province of Manitoba. They emphasized the government’s commitment to advancing Riel’s vision by collaborating with Métis partners to close socio-economic gaps and enhance the well-being of Métis communities. The ministers also highlighted the importance of renewing the government-to-government relationship with Métis, ensuring it is built upon a strong foundation of respect and cooperation to implement their vision of self-determination. They recognized the determination, perseverance, and strength of the Métis as they build on Louis Riel’s vision to protect Métis rights, culture, and values.
Documentary about residential school experiences to premiere on CBC Gem: A new documentary titled New Blood is set to premiere on CBC Gem on November 22, 2024. Directed by Blackfoot filmmaker Adam Solway, the film highlights a theatrical production based on the residential school experiences of Siksika Nation Chief Vincent Yellow Old Woman and others. Filmed in Alberta, including Siksika Nation and Calgary, the production features performances by Yellow Old Woman’s grandchildren and Blackfoot Elders, set to music by Peter Gabriel, who is also an executive producer on the project.
Additional Updates
Liberals to face third test in federal byelection in British Columbia next month: Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has announced a federal byelection for December 16 in the Cloverdale—Langley City riding, following the resignation of Liberal MP John Aldag. This byelection serves as a critical test for the Liberal Party, which has recently lost two long-held seats and faces internal and external calls for leadership change.
Minister Hussen to make an announcement related to Indigenous climate projects in Latin America: On November 14, 2024, Minister of International Development Ahmed Hussen, alongside Terry Teegee of the British Columbia Assembly of First Nations and Lewis Archer of Save the Children Canada, will announce support for Indigenous Peoples in Bolivia, Colombia, Guatemala, and Peru. The initiative focuses on building climate resilience through joint advocacy and knowledge sharing with Indigenous communities in Canada.
AMC Calls for Immediate Review of Critical Incident Involving Bloodvein First Nation Citizen at Grace Hospital: The Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs (AMC) has expressed deep concern over a critical incident at Grace Hospital in Winnipeg, where Jason Kennedy, a 48-year-old man from Bloodvein First Nation, underwent a leg amputation. Admitted for the amputation of his right leg due to a bone infection, Mr. Kennedy discovered post-surgery that his left leg had been mistakenly amputated instead. This error has prompted the AMC to call for an immediate, transparent investigation into the incident, emphasizing the need to address systemic issues in healthcare delivery to First Nations peoples.
Statement by the Prime Minister on the passing of John Horgan: Prime Minister Justin Trudeau expressed deep sadness over the passing of John Horgan, former Premier of British Columbia and Canada’s Ambassador to Germany. Trudeau highlighted Horgan’s dedication to public service, his leadership during challenging times, and his commitment to reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples. He extended condolences to Horgan’s family and acknowledged his lasting legacy.
Teaching First Nations children living off-reserve about Indigenous culture linked to better well-being: A study by McMaster University researchers, published on November 12, 2024, in Child Development, reveals that teaching Indigenous culture and fostering community cohesion significantly enhance the socioemotional and behavioural well-being of First Nations children living off-reserve in Canada. The research identifies key factors contributing to improved well-being, including cultural education, community connections, caregiver nurturance, positive parental health, and smaller household sizes. The study emphasizes the importance of culturally relevant experiences during early childhood for long-term positive outcomes.
With centuries of inequities to fix, Indigenous leaders take on monumental tasks with limited resources: Ken Coates in National Newswatch: Ken Coates discusses the multifaceted challenges Indigenous leaders in Canada face, including economic development, social services, and cultural preservation. Despite limited resources, these leaders are striving for financial autonomy through initiatives like economic development corporations and community-owned assets. Coates emphasizes the need for supportive policies and partnerships to address historical inequities and promote sustainable development in Indigenous communities.
Anniversary of land claims agreement sparks calls for Nunavik police reform: The 49th anniversary of the James Bay and Northern Quebec Agreement has reignited discussions on policing in Nunavik, especially following a recent fatal police shooting in Salluit. Advocates, including original treaty negotiator Charlie Watt, argue that the agreement’s vision for Inuit self-governance in policing remains unfulfilled. They call for increased Inuit representation within the Nunavik Police Service and reforms to ensure culturally appropriate law enforcement. Currently, only two of 125 officers are Inuit, highlighting the need for systemic changes to align with the treaty’s original intent.
Bullying behaviour will stop, says new Indigenous Affairs Minister: New Brunswick’s Indigenous Affairs Minister, Keith Chiasson, has committed to ending bullying within the department. This pledge follows reports of a toxic work environment and allegations of harassment under previous leadership. Minister Chiasson emphasized the government’s dedication to fostering a respectful and supportive workplace culture.
Assembly of First Nations (AFN) 2SLGBTQQIA+ Council Opposes Alberta’s Proposed Anti-Transgender Legislation: On November 13, 2024, the AFN 2SLGBTQQIA+ Council condemned Alberta’s proposed legislation restricting transgender youth rights, including limitations on gender-affirming care and mandatory parental consent for pronoun use in schools. The Council emphasized the necessity of safe, inclusive environments for transgender and Two-Spirit youth and called for the immediate withdrawal of the legislation.
