Former cabinet minister Randy Boissonnault tells committee: ‘I am not Indigenous’

Randy Boissonnault, the former employment minister who faced backlash for his shifting claims to Indigenous identity, appeared before the House of Commons committee to address the controversy. Boissonnault clarified that he is not Indigenous, despite previous references to himself as “non-status adopted Cree” and claims about his great-grandmother being a “full-blooded Cree woman.”

The Edmonton MP admitted to using the term “non-status adopted Cree” to describe his family’s heritage after a conversation with an Indigenous researcher. However, he was unable to specify which Cree nation his family belonged to when questioned by NDP MP Lori Idlout.

Idlout pressed Boissonnault on his efforts to correct the misinformation about his identity. Boissonnault expressed willingness to seek advice on how to rectify the situation but maintained that he had never claimed Indigenous status. Idlout emphasized the harm of “Pretendianism” and labeled it as fraud in Inuktitut.

Boissonnault disclosed that he has been consulting with Indigenous leaders and elders to seek guidance on addressing the controversy. He acknowledged that his use of the term “non-status adopted Cree” may not have been clear and expressed remorse for any confusion it may have caused.

During the committee hearing, Bloc Quebecois MP Nathalie Sinclair Desgagne questioned Boissonnault’s use of Cree language in his speeches and raised concerns about cultural appropriation. Boissonnault defended his use of the language, stating his intentions to be an ally to Indigenous Peoples and receiving feedback from Indigenous individuals about his linguistic abilities.

In addition to the Indigenous identity controversy, Boissonnault faced scrutiny over a business he co-founded that falsely claimed to be Indigenous-owned to secure government contracts. Boissonnault distanced himself from the company and condemned his former business partner’s unethical conduct. He revealed that legal action is being pursued against the individual and cited this as a factor in his resignation from cabinet.

The business dealings of Boissonnault and his former partner have been under investigation by the ethics committee, with allegations of misleading information being presented. The Conservatives have called for disciplinary action against the partner, highlighting the gravity of the situation.

Boissonnault’s appearance before the House of Commons committee shed light on the complexities surrounding identity, heritage, and ethics in public office. The ongoing discussions and investigations underscore the importance of accountability and transparency in political leadership.