Indigenous leaders caution the Liberal government’s expansive interpretation of Indigeneity in Canada has added to confusion in who qualifies for a multi-billion dollar procurement program intended to boost First Nations, Métis and Inuit businesses.
Natan Obed, the president of Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami (ITK), accused successive federal governments of “using” and “funding” Indigenous organizations to their own advantage as Canada continues to grapple with the project of reconciliation.
“It is just strategic maneuvering by successive governments on ensuring that they can, in some ways, co-opt the Indigenous rights-holding voice, mislead Canadians about the relationship that the government has with First Nations, Inuit and Métis, and ultimately destabilize our systems of governance,” he said.
Global News
Publication Date
August 26, 2024
