B.C. First Nations concerned about new direction in relationship with Canada

The First Nations Leadership Council, a collective of nations in British Columbia, is “deeply concerned” that the recent Cabinet shuffle by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau signals a “wavering commitment to addressing Canada’s colonial history and to realizing a true nation-to-nation relationship with Indigenous peoples”.

On Jan. 14, the Prime Minister appointed Seamus O’Reagan as minister of Indigenous Services Canada, reassigning Jane Philpott to the Treasury Board, and replaced Jody Wilson-Raybould as Justice minister, sending her to head up Veterans Affairs.

BC Regional Chief Terry Teegee said advances made on the nation-to-nation relationship through reconciliation efforts, and the work of Wilson-Raybould and others has been positive “and I hold up my hands to these ministers and the good work they have done. 

“However, continued momentum is required on these important efforts and I call on the new ministers to ensure that this work continues and that the relationship between the federal Crown and Indigenous peoples continue to be a priority for this government.”

Cheryl Casimer, First Nations Summit political executive member, said she was concerned with the “important work” on policy reform of recognition and implementation of Aboriginal title and self-determination and child welfare.

“The departures of Wilson-Raybould and Philpott from their previous ministries at this critical juncture when this important work is underway or nearing fruition signals that the Prime Minister is no longer committed to reconciliation,” nor the forging of a new relationship between Indigenous peoples and Canada as a priority.

“The removal of these critical and well-respected ministers, during a period of significant conflict and tension, demonstrates Trudeau’s lack of resolve to address Canada’s deplorable relationship with Indigenous peoples,” said Grand Chief Stewart Phillip, president of the Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs.

“The Prime Minister has made a very clear decision to completely abandon the reconciliation agenda in favour of supporting business and industry in terms of oil and gas infrastructure development and similar projects.”

Phillip thanked Wilson-Raybould and Philpott for their “dedication and care in their efforts to work in partnership with Indigenous peoples to come to mutually agreed upon solutions.”

He called on Trudeau to clarify how the reassignment of these ministers will be for “the benefit of Indigenous peoples.”