Buffy Sainte-Marie returns her Order of Canada, says she never denied having American citizenship
Buffy Sainte-Marie Returns Order of Canada, Affirms Identity
Renowned singer-songwriter Buffy Sainte-Marie has made a bold statement by returning her Order of Canada “with a good heart” amidst controversy surrounding her Indigenous identity. In her first public address since being stripped of the prestigious award, Sainte-Marie asserts that she has never lied about her background.
Sainte-Marie, who is an American citizen holding a U.S. passport, explains that she was adopted by a Cree family in Saskatchewan during her young adult years. She maintains that she made it clear to Rideau Hall and former Prime Minister Pierre Elliott Trudeau that she was not Canadian, even when she was invited to perform for Queen Elizabeth in 1977.
The reasons behind Rideau Hall’s decision to revoke her Order of Canada earlier this year remain undisclosed. The Governor General’s website states that non-Canadians can receive the honor if their contributions have benefited or brought honor to Canadians or Canada.
Recently, Sainte-Marie was removed from an exhibit at Winnipeg’s Canadian Museum for Human Rights titled “human rights defenders.” This action follows a CBC report from over a year ago that raised questions about her Indigenous heritage based on a birth certificate indicating she was born in Massachusetts in 1941.
In a statement released, Sainte-Marie expresses her love and gratitude to Canada, acknowledging the support she has received throughout her career. She acknowledges the uncertainty surrounding her parentage and the ongoing speculation about her birthplace.
Despite conflicting reports from family members in the U.S. denying her Indigenous ancestry and adoption, Sainte-Marie stands by her Cree family who she says “adopted me forever and this will never change.” She reflects on the acceptance she has felt from the Canadian arts community, though she acknowledges not everyone may see her as part of the Canadian identity.
Several Canadian institutions that have honored Sainte-Marie are now faced with navigating the complexities surrounding her identity. The acclaimed musician remains grateful for the opportunities she has had to contribute to the arts in Canada, despite the challenges she has faced.
As the controversy continues to unfold, Sainte-Marie remains steadfast in her truth and identity, determined to share her music and message with the world.
