Some Indigenous leaders praise Trudeau’s government, others point to promises not kept
Jaime Battiste, a Mi’kmaw member of Parliament and chair of the Liberal Indigenous caucus, recently expressed his doubts about Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s ability to lead the party into the next electoral battle. Despite his loyalty to Trudeau, Battiste acknowledged the growing concerns among Canadian voters and respected the Prime Minister’s decision to resign once a successor is selected.
Trudeau’s announcement to prorogue Parliament until March and step down has sparked mixed reactions among Indigenous leaders. While some praised his commitment to reconciliation, others expressed disappointment over unfinished business and promises left unfulfilled. Key bills impacting Indigenous communities, such as providing clean drinking water to First Nations and recognizing Métis governments, will now be put on hold due to the suspension of Parliament.
The decision to shut down Parliament also means that ongoing negotiations, such as the federal offer of $48 billion over 10 years to reform the on-reserve child welfare system, will be delayed. Indigenous leaders like Abram Benedict and AFN National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak expressed their disappointment over the stalled progress in addressing crucial issues affecting Indigenous communities.
Despite the setbacks, Indigenous leaders like Natan Obed of Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami and David Chartrand of the Manitoba Métis Federation commended Trudeau for his unprecedented access and support for Indigenous communities during his tenure. Obed highlighted the Prime Minister’s genuine connections with Inuit communities, while Chartrand praised Trudeau’s efforts in advancing Indigenous rights and recognition.
However, Trudeau also faced criticism from former justice minister Jody Wilson-Raybould, the first Indigenous person to hold that position, who noted his lack of grace in stepping down. Wilson-Raybould called for a shift towards constructive dialogue and sound public policy development in the post-Trudeau era.
As the Liberal party embarks on a leadership contest, the future remains uncertain for Indigenous issues that were left unresolved under Trudeau’s leadership. The opposition parties are pushing for an election as soon as possible, while Indigenous leaders like Chartrand and Obed focus on finding ways to advance their priorities in the lead-up to the spring budget season.
Overall, Trudeau’s resignation marks a turning point for Indigenous communities in Canada, with both challenges and opportunities on the horizon as the country transitions to a new era of leadership.
