It is time for a new era of relations with Indigenous communities in Canada. That has been the consistent message from our NDP caucus.
That was Tom Mulcair’s message in an address to the Assembly of First Nations annual general assembly.
We need to act to reduce poverty, improve educational outcomes and increase opportunities for Northern and Aboriginal communities across Canada.
It’s time for a new era that embraces a true Nation-to-Nation relationship, built on respect and, above all, makes meaningful progress when it comes to bringing about change. A new era starts with listening and an understanding that ‘meaningful consultation and accommodation’ is important. To get different results, we need a different approach and that starts with listening.
After too many decades of inaction and empty promises we need to make progress on important issues such as First Nations education.
We need action on housing and infrastructure. We need to call a national inquiry into missing and murdered Indigenous women, as well as act upon the report of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission – beginning with its most pressing recommendations – in consultation with Indigenous communities.
It is time for a new relationship with Indigenous peoples in Canada.
