Aboriginal Discrimination In Canada

Aboriginal Canadians have, over the years, become victim to a tremendous amount of discrimination by the Canadian government. The Indian Act of 1867, which signifies one of the earliest forms of discrimination, took away a significant amount of power from the hands of Aboriginals. Aboriginals living within Canada have also suffered as a result of poor living conditions and extreme poverty. Although poverty is a national issue, it is especially prevent among the Aboriginal community. The White Paper of 1969, which attempted to assimilate Aboriginals into Canadian culture, is considered to be one of the most severe forms of discrimination directed towards this group. It is this type of extreme discrimination that has led to an Aboriginal movement…show more content…
First, both Aboriginals and the rest of Canada are “locked in an inescapable interdependence” (CRIC 2). Therefore, regardless of whether or not Aboriginals adopt a form of self government, they will always be a part of Canada (CRIC 2). A second advantage of “citizens plus,” as opposed to self-government, is that self-government would establish Aboriginals as outsiders (CRIC 2). If Canadians do not consider Aboriginals to be fellow citizens, then that will reduce the likelihood of Aboriginals being given assistance by the Canadian government (CRIC 2). However, if Aboriginals are seen as being a part of the Canadian community, as they would through “citizens plus,” then they would be far more likely to receive a better flow of resources from the government (CRIC 2). A third advantage of “citizens plus” is that it encourages Aboriginals to participate in both the federal and provincial government by voting, and/or running as candidates (CRIC 3). Lastly, self-government does not take into consideration the needs of Aboriginals living in urban areas (CRIC 3). “Citizens plus,” on the other hand, would more adequately address the needs of both urban Aboriginals, and those living on reserves (CRIC 3). This is due to the fact that the special rights given to Aboriginals under a “citizens plus” approach could be applied to all members of this group, regardless of where they…show more content…
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