Native Issues Update

For anyone who might be under the false assumption that the Federal Government isn't doing anything regarding native claims, there is in fact a Six Nations meeting going on this evening to discuss a $26 million offer from Ottawa to settle a compensation claim from 1829. Reports available from the Spectator and the Record.


Also, Chief Patrick Brazeau had an excellent letter to the editor in today's Post:

...It is time for Canada to move beyond an archaic position of aboriginal affairs that is rooted in Victorian paternalism that aimed to deal with "the Indian problem," as it was termed in the day. To do so, calls for many to act: Parliament, the machinery of government that often resists progressive change, the national aboriginal leadership and, most importantly, this country's aboriginal peoples.

We have a moral duty and an obligation to act now on behalf of those who seek a better life off-reserve. As a wise man once said, "If not us, whom? If not now, when?"

I have great respect for Chief Brazeau, is the National Chief of the Congress of Aboriginal Peoples. He advocates for off-reserve natives, but challenges all natives to strive for greater self-sufficiency.

Saturday's Post included a great piece by Julie Smythe about Chief Brazeau - Shaking up Canada's native establishment. Well worth the read.

Also please check out the Brazman's blog, Chief Chat. You'll find a respectful discussion going on with natives from both on and off-reserve, as well as non-natives such as myself who are seeking a greater understanding of the problems and challenges that Canadian aboriginals face today.

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Wednesday Update: Chuck Strahl has a letter in today's Post - Canada is helping urban natives.