In this huge Quebec riding, Indigenous voters have lots of power — and specific concerns

Edith Cloutier has dedicated 35 years of her life to serving the urban Indigenous community at the Val d’Or Native Friendship Centre. Throughout her tenure, she has witnessed thousands of clients seek assistance and support, while also observing various federal politicians come and go. However, the challenges faced by urban Indigenous people in and around Val d’Or, Que., have only intensified over the years.

As the federal election on April 28 approaches, Cloutier, the executive director of the centre, is on the lookout for a candidate who will prioritize the needs of urban Indigenous people in the expansive Abitibi—Baie-James—Nunavik—Eeyou riding. Stretching across thousands of kilometers, this riding encompasses a significant Indigenous population and presents unique challenges that require attention.

While the economy and Canada’s response to U.S. tariffs have dominated the electoral campaign, Cloutier emphasizes the importance of addressing local issues that impact urban Indigenous communities. She voices concerns that the focus on global political concerns may overshadow the urgent needs of Indigenous peoples in the region.

One individual who has taken up the challenge of representing the community is Mandy Gull-Masty, a former grand chief of the Cree Nation Government in Quebec, who is now running as the Liberal candidate in the riding. Gull-Masty recognizes the significance of this diverse and vast riding, and is committed to engaging with constituents across the region.

One of the key challenges faced in the region is the low voter turnout among Indigenous communities. Despite efforts to increase participation, the numbers remain low compared to the national average. Gull-Masty acknowledges the importance of encouraging Indigenous voters to cast their ballots and emphasizes the direct impact of federal politics on the region.

Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak, national chief of the Assembly of First Nations, emphasizes the crucial role that Indigenous voters play in determining election outcomes. With a strong presence in the riding, Indigenous voters can sway the results and ensure their voices are heard.

As the election campaign unfolds, incumbent Sylvie Bérubé of the Bloc Québécois seeks to continue her work and earn the support of Indigenous voters. Bérubé emphasizes the importance of listening to and respecting Indigenous communities, while highlighting the need to address key issues such as food insecurity and environmental impacts on Indigenous ways of life.

Despite the efforts of candidates like Bérubé, Cloutier notes that discussions on critical issues like homelessness and housing shortages are often overlooked in local debates. She stresses the importance of ensuring that Indigenous voices are heard and their needs are addressed in political discourse.

Ultimately, the urban Indigenous community in the Abitibi—Baie-James—Nunavik—Eeyou riding continues to advocate for their rights and push for solutions to pressing issues. With a diverse range of candidates vying for their support, Indigenous voters have the opportunity to make their voices heard and shape the future of their communities.