The indigenous file: PM needs to be cautious, precise
After the acquittal of a Saskatchewan farmer in the death of Indigenous Canadian Colten Boushie, many expected the prime minister to announce changes to the jury system. Instead, Justin Trudeau pledged quick, sweeping legislative reforms across a broad array of policies governing Indigenous communities.
Good, in principle. Canadians want to improve the lives of First Nations, Métis and Inuit peoples. But the Boushie case, about which the prime minister has shown so much public concern, is also a warning that he must be cautious and precise, not carelessly exuberant, in transforming his agenda into action.
For the case exposed deep rifts between farmers and Indigenous people within a single community. The reasons these hostilities exist are complex — but the story is repeated in many parts of Canada. Ignoring the reality of such profound ruptures, no matter who has the moral high ground, could easily undermine well-intentioned new laws. The prime minister must lay the groundwork for his legislation carefully, not only with Indigenous Canadians — understandably disillusioned by a history of broken promises — but with other citizens, many of whom know little about the culture and traditions guiding first peoples.
Here’s an example of the challenges Trudeau faces: self-government. Ask 10 Canadians what this means and it’s likely seven will respond: “Huh?” Among the remainder, there will be three different answers — and the ambiguity won’t be isolated to non-Indigenous folk. Or, ask Canadians to explain the “duty to consult and accommodate.” Indigenous leaders, government experts and courts wrestle with these concepts all the time; yet chances are most Canadians would be surprised at their emerging meanings.
The prime minister wants to clarify such key principles, but he may face real backlash if there has been no appropriate public education or encouragement of unfettered, open debate first.
Even the most competent government would have trouble getting this agenda right. Regretfully, Team Trudeau has not been that beacon of accomplishment. Its inquiry into Murdered and Missing Women and Girls is foundering. Only after repeated compliance orders from the Canadian Human Rights Tribunal did it begin closing the funding gap for on-reserve child welfare services. Its approach has often reflected political correctness over concrete action.
Trudeau, rightly, wants to end the dysfunction in Canada’s core relationship. But he must carry the whole country with him, step by step, respecting concerns and encouraging debate — lest he end up deepening fissures between communities instead of healing them.