First Nations, first steps and first impressions for Trudeau – The Globe and Mail
Dec. 08, 2015
This morning, Justin Trudeau will speak at a special chiefs meeting of the Assembly of First Nations in Gatineau, Que., across the Ottawa River from Parliament.
One of the first things Mr. Trudeau did when he appointed his cabinet was to change the name of the federal department Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada to Indigenous and Northern Affairs. It reflects a growing preference for the term “indigenous” over “aboriginal” in the communities.
In the mandate letters he gave his ministers, Mr. Trudeau made mention of the government’s relationship with the indigenous communities in two prominent spots. After pledging he would bring a new tone to Ottawa, Mr. Trudeau writes: “No relationship is more important to me and to Canada than the one with Indigenous Peoples. It is time for a renewed, nation-to-nation relationship with Indigenous Peoples, based on recognition of rights, respect, co-operation, and partnership.” He also said: “You are expected to do your part to fulfill our government’s commitment to transparent, merit-based appointments, to help ensure gender parity and that Indigenous Canadians and minority groups are better reflected in positions of leadership.” These passages appear in the mandate letters for every member of cabinet.
