The President of Memorial University says she’s had direct contact with the NunatuKavut Community Council regarding changes to its Indigenous verification policy.
However, Janet Morrison says MUN will no longer rely on self-identification for those hoping to avail of Indigenous benefits or programs.
MUN is adopting a federally-recognized process, following the lead of some 20 other post-secondary institutions across Canada.
That means they will no longer rely solely on students who self-identify, and will instead seek official documentation from a recognized Indigenous group or collective.
That’s drawn the ire of the NunatuKavut Community Council whose members are no longer able to rely on self-identification.
Morrison says she met with NCC President Todd Russell, but adds that the voices of other Indigenous groups made their decision clear.
“We have heard clearly, consistently, about the significant harms and risks posed by including unrecognized collectives within the verification policy framework,” she told reporters.
“A decision not to approve this policy would have undermined the integrity of, frankly, of our Indigenous relationships and our reconciliation commitments.”
Indigenous Groups Supportive of Policy Changes
The Innu Nation supports MUN’s decision to adopt an Indigenous Identity Verification Policy, calling it a “necessary measure ” to protect Indigenous rights.
The Innu Nation says the policy will ensure that opportunities intended for Indigenous peoples are not undermined by organizations or individuals who are not federally-recognized or who have recognition from “legitimate Indigenous peoples.”
Indigenous identity fraud has become a serious issues across Canada according to the Innu Nation, diverting opportunities and resources away from Indigenous peoples.
Grand Chief Chris Rich says the policy protects the integrity of opportunities intended for Indigenous peoples.
(via the Nunatsiavut Government)
The Nunatsiavut Government also welcomes MUN’s adoption of an Indigenous Verification Policy, calling it “an important and long-overdue step toward protecting the rights of Inuit and all Indigenous peoples” in the province.
