8.1.3 Aboriginal Views on Citizenship
Completion requirements
8.1.3 Aboriginal Views on Citizenship
Blackfoot Celebration
Courtesy Flickr/Phil Kunz
Courtesy Flickr/Phil Kunz
Who decides who is allowed to be a "citizen"? People born in Canada are Canadian citizens as are those who go through a process to achieve the rights and responsibilities that accompany citizenship. However, what about citizenship in other
nations, such as First Nations?
Native citizenship is outlined under the Indian Act. However, members of First Nations want the right to determine who is entitled to citizenship without the involvement of the federal government.
According to Article 33 of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, "Indigenous peoples have the right to determine their own identity or membership in accordance with their customs and traditions." However, in Canada, Indigenous people do not make that determination. Citizenship is defined through federal legislation.
Native citizenship is outlined under the Indian Act. However, members of First Nations want the right to determine who is entitled to citizenship without the involvement of the federal government.
According to Article 33 of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, "Indigenous peoples have the right to determine their own identity or membership in accordance with their customs and traditions." However, in Canada, Indigenous people do not make that determination. Citizenship is defined through federal legislation.
Consider some Aboriginal views on citizenship:
What all Canadians need to understand is that Indigenous nations are just that ... nations. First Nations have our own land, people, languages, cultures, values, and laws. We have the right to govern our territory as we see fit. We have
the right to develop citizenship and immigration policy just as Canada has that same right. It's a matter of mutual respect, really.
Bob Goulais, member of the Nbisiing Anishinaabeg Nation
The Government of Canada should not be able to decide who is and who is not a First Nation citizen. It is the right of any nation to identify its citizens and First Nations are no exception. We are calling on the federal government to work with
us a on a broader approach that goes beyond these narrow amendments and deals with the real issues of First Nations citizenship.
AFN National Chief Shawn A-in-chut Atleo
The Assembly of First Nations is the national organization representing First Nations citizens in Canada. The AFN represents all citizens regardless of age, gender or place of residence.
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"Who are the Metis?", CBC News, You-tube
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"Metis", Indigenous Awareness Canada, You-tube
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"Assembly of First Nations", 99thDimension, You-tube
Read "National Definition of Métis" on page 443 of your text Perspectives on Ideology.
As you read, consider the following questions:
- Is it possible to have citizenship in a First Nation within Canada?
- What challenges might such dual citizenship cause?