Trudeau leaves the stage, First Nations challenge his successor

As the country begins a political transition, Indigenous leaders in Saskatchewan recall the emergency a clear commitment to First Nations priorities.

The Saskatchewan Federation of Sovereign Aboriginal Nations FSIN describes these priorities as follows: Respect for inherent and treaty rights, protection of Indigenous children, transfer of natural resources, economic development, education, health, preservation of Indigenous languages ​​and cultures, and improvement of infrastructure and accommodation.

In a press release published Monday, the Saskatchewan Federation of Sovereign Aboriginal Nations FSIN emphasizes the responsibilities of the federal government towards Aboriginal people. Prime Minister Trudeau’s resignation is a pivotal moment for the nationdeclares Saskatchewan Federation of Sovereign Aboriginal Nations FSIN, which represents 74 First Nations in Saskatchewan.

Canada has a fiduciary obligation and duty to First Nations, regardless of which Canadian party forms government.

A contrasting assessment for Justin Trudeau

Since coming to power in 2015, Justin Trudeau has placed reconciliation at the heart of his political program. His commitments had raised great hopes among the First Nations.

Under his leadership, several notable legislative advances were made. The Indigenous Languages ​​Act (new window) and the Act respecting First Nations, Inuit and Métis children, youth and families (new window) are among the main successes.

The first recognized the crucial role of indigenous languages ​​in identity and culture, while the second enshrined the right of indigenous communities to manage child protection in their territories.

Despite this progress, the head of the Saskatchewan Federation of Sovereign Aboriginal Nations FSINBobby Cameron, emphasizes that there is still a long way to go.

The Saskatchewan Federation of Sovereign Aboriginal Nations FSIN believes that the next federal Prime Minister must not only continue the progress made, but also strengthen the foundations of a respectful and lasting partnership with Indigenous communities.

The next Prime Minister must not only respect the commitments made, but also ensure that First Nations people are seated at tables where they play an integral and essential role in building a better Canadahe says.

For the Saskatchewan Federation of Sovereign Aboriginal Nations FSINreconciliation cannot be limited to symbolic declarations. Reconciliation is not a one-off initiative. It is an ongoing process that requires transparency and meaningful action. Implementing and protecting inherent and treaty rights remains our top prioritycontinues Bobby Cameron.

On Monday, Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak, Chief of the Assembly of First Nations (AFN), praised the efforts made by Justin Trudeau since he came to power in 2015, particularly with regard to Indigenous issues.

However, the indigenous leader also expressed reservations about the pace of progress on some key files.

Among his criticisms is the lack of a clear commitment from the government to renegotiate lasting reform of children’s services and the persistent delays in the adoption of Bill C-61 on drinking water in First Nations.