True North Aid | Canadian Charity Supporting Indigenous Communities

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Charities Helping Indigenous Peoples in Canada

True North Aid

This organization was started in 2009 to answer the challenging needs of our Indigenous communities in Canada much before crises in the north drew national attention and before the Truth and Reconciliation Commission completed its work.

True North Aid continues to lead several successful projects. It works with Indigenous-led Initiatives to support the critical needs of First Peoples and help reduce the poverty gap between them and the rest of Canada. We have lots of work to do. We need — and appreciate — your support. Find out how you can help!

Joining the Potlatch

Donating money to First Nations people is laudable. Everyone involved is thankful for your concern. It’s just as important to remember first and foremost the dignity of the people whom we think we are helping. It is better for people to think of the Potlatch, a First Nations tradition of sharing wealth with each other and exchanging what we have to share.

A word on government support

You can donate directly to some Indigenous communities that have established their own charities. Private funding does not interfere with government funding in any way. In many cases, private charities like those listed above are the only ones helping our First Peoples. Many Canadians feel that it is the government’s responsibility to “take care of” our Indigenous peoples but the past 150 years has proven this to be very ineffective.

It should be obvious to anyone who reads the news that government help is not the solution. Government help is often only a stopgap or a bandaid. There are still too many youth and teen suicides. Self-determination and self-governance are key to reducing the poverty gap of 40% of on-reserve First Nation children living in poverty. Many families in our northern communities live in overcrowded conditions, with unsafe water and too little food. There remain fundamental disparities in educational outcomes for Indigenous youth. We must do what we can to empower one another to live healthy, prosperous and hopeful lives. All Canadians must undertake the work from all walks of life; we all have a responsibility!

Here are several organizations:

The Gord Downie/Chanie Wenjack Foundation

Downie-Wenjack Fund was started by Gord Downie. It propagates the Chanie Wenjack story and encourages schools, businesses and the corporate sector to answer Gord Downie’s call to action for reconciliation.

Indigenous Youth Roots

Formerly Canadian Roots Exchange, IYR is a registered charity that provides Indigenous-based leadership, learning, and experiences to every youth participating in our programs. IYR organizes three main activities: leadership training programs, workshops, and gatherings.

Indspire

People focused on the value of education may be interested in donating to Indspire. This organization helps Indigenous students in Canada complete their post-secondary education for a successful future.

Honouring Indigenous Peoples

Honouring Indigenous Peoples is a Rotarian organization created in partnership and consultation with indigenous people. It honours indigenous people by supporting educational efforts and encouraging all Canadians to be aware of indigenous issues, history and culture, guided by the initial treaties.

Soaring Circle

I Love First Peoples empowers Indigenous children and youth to succeed through education and the motivation to stay in school. We bridge communities through practical projects that promote reconciliation and education. Through our celebrity platform, we also raise awareness about reconciliation across Canada and around the globe.

Habitat for Humanity

Habitat for Humanity Habitat for Humanity Canada’s Indigenous Housing Partnership partners with Indigenous families and communities to help create safe and decent places to live through affordable homeownership. To make this program sustainable in the Indigenous communities we partner with, we also provide skills and training opportunities to Indigenous youth and women to equip them with the trade skills they need to maintain and/or build new homes in their communities. To learn more about our Indigenous Housing Partnership, please visit www.habitat.ca/ihp.

Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami

Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami is a national representational organization protecting and advancing the rights and interests of Inuit living in Canada as well as working to improve their health and wellbeing.

First Nation Child and Caring Society

The First Nations Child and Family Caring Society was founded in 1998 at the Squamish First Nation. They work to ensure the safety and well-being of First Nations youth and their families by providing support through education, public policy campaigns, and resources. The organization hosts an annual Have a Heart Day event that celebrates 500 local students and involves over 40 schools and organizations with over 2,000 people. They also provide awards and scholarships to recognize groups and individuals’ work to ensure equity for First Nations children. Further, they have hosted over 160 public education events that attracted thousands of people of all ages and backgrounds

Helping Our Northern Neighbours

Helping Our Northern Neighbours was born in July of 2014 after it was discovered that prices for food and other goods in Northern Canada were unbelievably high when compared to their counterparts in the south. They are an organization that forms partnerships with those in the north to try to give them a hand up and support and encourage the development of local initiatives to assist the people while we and others work toward bringing awareness to the conditions that exist and until a permanent solution can be found and implemented.

NotJustTourists

NotJustTourists is a not-for-profit Canadian organization that encourages tourists to take a suitcase of donated medical supplies with them to the places they travel. There are chapters throughout Canada and they have delivered over 10,000 suitcases to 82 countries around the world, including communities in northern Canada.

Indigenous Awareness Canada

Indigenous Awareness Canada offers Online Indigenous Awareness Training and facilitates in-person workshops. Their mission is to assist you, and all Canadians, to learn about Canada’s Indigenous People and to help non-indigenous Canadians and Indigenous peoples move toward reconciliation. They offer Indigenous Awareness Certification and Training approved by employers across Canada. Beyond Indigenous awareness training, Indigenous Awareness Canada can help you succeed with your organization’s needs for meaningful Indigenous Consultation and successful Outreaching, Recruitment, and Retention of Indigenous employees.

Circles for Reconciliation

Circles for Reconciliation aims to establish trusting, meaningful relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples as part of the 94 Calls to Action from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. The means to achieve this will be the establishment of small grassroots gatherings of Indigenous and Non-Indigenous peoples in discussion circles.

NOTE: This list is only partial.

Make a Difference Today

February 21, 2024
How to Help Indigenous Communities
True North Aid is one of several Canadian charities and organizations committed to serving northern Indigenous communities in Canada.

The challenges facing Indigenous communities in Canada are complex and the result of many things that have transpired over the past 150 years. True North Aid believes that the right to self-governance and self-determination are key to closing the poverty gap as young people are inspired and empowered to pursue their dreams and build their communities. We provide practical humanitarian assistance through initiatives to support self-determination and cultivate relationships. These initiatives are in partnership with individuals and organizations committed to making a difference.

First Nations, Metis & Inuit communities across Canada deserve the right to self-determination and self-governance, better education for their children, improved drinking water, and an overall improvement in their standard of living.

Reducing inequities in northern communities is a collective effort and cannot be addressed overnight. As Canadians, we should seek to understand and celebrate our differences while acknowledging the unique challenges and socio-economic barriers faced by many Indigenous communities.

So, where do we begin?

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Donate

True North Aid is one of few charities working directly with northern and remote communities in Canada. Consider supporting our work and the work of others through financial partnership. A large sum of our expenses goes toward transporting supplies via air, trucking and sealift to northern communities. Click here to contribute to our programs.

Listen

Listen to Indigenous Peoples and educate yourself on their culture and history. Many different cultures and traditions are represented amongst First Nations, Métis and Inuit communities with various perspectives. There is so much to learn through listening. We share some great ways to learn about Indigenous culture and history below.

Volunteer

True North Aid can use your help. Volunteering with charities and organizations like ours will help offset costs that can be better used for our programming. Message us at info@truenorthaid.ca to learn about volunteer opportunities. Fundraisers and suggestions are always welcome!

Read Indigenous Literature

There is a great list of Indigenous authors. Reading Indigenous authors will provide you with a different perspective and books written by non-Indigenous authors. We heartily recommend that every Canadian reader of any seriousness take the time to read Indian Horse by Richard Wagamese, Kiss of the Fur Queen by Thomson Highway and The Inconvenient Indian by Thomas King or 21 Things You May Not Have Known About the Indian Act by Bob Joseph.

Other great authors are Lee Maracle, Eden Robinson, Thomas King, Tanya Talaga, and so many others.

Love reading? Here are some starting points:

Goodreads’ list: Best_Canadian_Aboriginal_Literature

14 Aboriginal women writers you should read

Amazon.ca’s Best Sellers in Native Canadian Literature

Purchase Indigenous Artwork and Designs

Purchasing Indigenous artwork and jewelry isn’t appropriation, but appreciation, as long as you know that it comes from an Indigenous artisan. There are lots of Indigenous artists who sell their work to be appreciated. Check out https://indigenousartscollective.org/ to find some vendors.

Watch and Learn from Indigenous Film and Television

Established in 1992, APTN airs and produces programs made by and for, Indigenous peoples in Canada and the United States. You can watch the news, and find out what makes news in their communities, from their perspective. Watch shows like Cashing In, to see their stories on screen. APTN’s First Contact reality show is also a great way to learn about the beautiful and diverse culture and teachings of Indigenous through the experiences of the participants on the show. Watch these episodes on demand at https://aptn.ca/firstcontact/video/season-1/

CBC also has some great series on their CBC GEM website that tells Indigenous stories and features many documentaries about life in northern communities. Check those out HERE.

In recent years, many great films have been released depicting life in northern Canada and the residential school system. Watch “Indian Horse” on Crave, or catch a community screening or purchase “The Grizzlies” on DVD/Blu-Ray.

Attend a First Nations traditional event like a Pow-wow

Pow wows include traditional costumes, drumming, singing, and a dance competition and there are many held across Canada, like the Six Nations Champion of Champions Pow Wow in Brantford, with over 400 participants annually and attended by more than 20,000 people. There is also the largest pow-wow in Canada the, Manito Ahbee Festival in Winnipeg.

Attending pow-wows and traditional Indigenous events are practical ways to meet with and talk to Indigenous Canadians, make friends and learn about their culture, way of life and concerns. Connect with a local college/university and search for local native associations in your area. Check out CBC’s Maggie Moose’s tips for attending a pow-wow.

Attend a Kairos Blanket Exercise

The KAIROS Blanket Exercise program is a unique, participatory history lesson – developed in collaboration with Indigenous Elders, knowledge keepers and educators – that fosters truth, understanding, respect and reconciliation among Indigenous and non-indigenous peoples. Our Indigenous Medical Alliance Team hosted this event in 2018 in Kingston and it was well received.

Check out KAIROS’ website and the great work that they do, including their blanket exercises at www.kairosblanketexercise.org

Listen to Indigenous Music

Live music is the best; if you have ever heard a First Nations drum circle, it is astonishingly unique. If you see it in person (at a pow-wow, for example) you will see how it is created, the arrangements of the singers and how the voices unite, rising and falling and rising again, as they drum together.

Aside from that, there is a wealth of recorded Indigenous music in all styles, from the folk of Susan Aglukark and Tanya Tagaq, to rock like Hawk and Eagle or hip hop like A Tribe Called Red. There is something for everyone and if you find the right music, it will deepen the connection you will feel with our Indigenous people. Check out the Indigenous Music Awards to find out what’s current.
February 15, 2024
What Terms Should I Use When Addressing Indigenous Peoples in Canada?
What are the right terms to address Indigenous people in Canada?

Using the right terminology to address the original inhabitants of Canada is the first step towards respecting their culture and history. Over the years, there have been several names, including natives, aboriginals, Indians, or redskins, to address them, but these were disrespectful. As a Canadian charity working with northern Indigenous communities in Canada, we want to create a helpful resource to help you understand the right terms to address Indigenous People in Canada.

1. Indigenous

Indigenous is an international term that’s used to address First Nations (status and non-status), Métis and Inuit of different countries. For example, the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous People, and is associated with activism and governments. It is an acceptable term to use during formal communications.

2. First Nations

Most Indigenous communities living on reserves in Canada are usually called First Nations. Technically, it refers to those with Indian status under Canadian law. This term can’t be interchangeably used for Inuit and Métis communities.

3. Inuit

Inuit is an Indigenous community located in the Arctic circle. Inuit is a plural term for Inuk and translates as “the people”. This community was earlier referred to as Eskimo, which is highly inappropriate and shouldn’t be used at all.

4. Métis

Métis is a term used to describe Indigenous people from Canada’s Prairie provinces including Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba, and some parts of British Columbia, the Northwest Territories, and northern United States.

5. Aboriginal

Aboriginal is a term that’s come to use more recently and is an umbrella term used to refer to First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples. Until now, it was considered an acceptable term but it’s being used less and less socially since it’s associated with the Canadian government’s policy – the 1982 Constitution Act.

6. Indian

This is where it gets a little complicated. It can only be used to identify a registered person under the Indian Act. It can be used in direct quotations, legal, and constitutional matters, to describe historic incidents, or discuss rights and benefits of someone with an Indian status. Avoid using the term when talking in a social setup as you wouldn’t know who finds this term derogatory.

7. Native

Native is another complicated term that’s used often. Some people consider it appropriate to address First Nations, while others think it’s entirely unacceptable. It is an okay term to use if you work for or want to address organizations like the Native Women’s Association of Canada or when the person you’re talking to addresses themselves as Native.

A few things to remember

Avoid using any kind of possessive terms including our Aboriginal People or Canada’s Indigenous Peoples.

Always capitalize the terms when you write them down. For example – First Nations, Indigenous, Inuit, and Métis.

If you want to use a plural possessive for any of the terms, do not use the apostrophe. For instance, use First Nations land instead of First Nations’ land.

We hope this article helped you get clarity over different terms and their usage.
February 6, 2024
Understanding Poverty in Indigenous Communities

47% of status First Nations children live in poverty (53% for those living on reserve and 41% for those living off reserve). – Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives, 2019.

Through this blog, we want to highlight common issues the community faces and how you might help.

Read this: Towards Justice: Tackling Indigenous Child Poverty in Canada

Almost two-thirds of indigenous children in both Manitoba and Saskatchewan live in poverty: 62% in Manitoba and 64% in Saskatchewan.In the 2006 census, child poverty rates among aboriginal children was 40%. At that time, the national rate of child poverty was 17%, driven significantly higher by the rate among our indigenous population.

Common causes of poverty in Indigenous communities in Canada:

1. Residential Schools and Intergenerational Trauma

The Residential School system operated between the late 1800s and 1996 and is responsible for the traumatic separation of young children from their parents. Children who attended these schools often faced emotional, physical, and sexual abuse while the system attempted to assimilate them into Western culture. The abuse didn’t stop there. Many students died due to lack of nutrition, poor health conditions, and abuse. Many students died at home after being discharged from the school. The legacy of residential schools continue to this day through intergenerational trauma.

2. Forced segregation and living in the north

When the Indian Act of 1867 came into force, Indigenous communities were assigned areas far away from white-populated areas in Canada. While poverty isn’t that common in people living on reserves close to urban areas, it’s very prevalent in northern communities due to lack of resources, employment opportunities and the high cost of living.

3. Higher rates of mental illness

First Nations adults living on reserve are twice as likely to suffer from major depression when compared to the Canadian adult population. The historical trauma of Residential Schools has been intergenerational. A higher percentage of depressive episodes, anxiety, stress, suicidal thoughts, and neglect is reported among adults who’s parent or grandparent attended the Residential Schools.

4. Inability to own land on reserves

Real estate is the driving force for wealth in Western countries. However, the Indian Act of 1867 limits First Nations people to own land on reserves. They can finance their home but not own the land it’s built on.

How can you help the indigenous communities in Canada?

The very first step towards helping the indigenous communities in Canada is empathizing with their struggles, past and present. Read about Residential School survivors and educate people around you.

Support indigenous artists and business owners.

Lastly, but more importantly, donate to charities that work with indigenous communities at the grassroot level. Monetary donations are more beneficial than humanitarian aid since they can be cost-prohibitive. These northern communities can only be accessed by planes or long drives from bigger cities. Indigenous communities in Canada deserve an improved standard of living. True North Aid is committed to making that a reality by supporting the right to better education, improved drinking water, self-determination, and governance.

Visit our website to explore our current programs and learn more about how you can contribute towards the cause.

February 5, 2024
Year-In-Review 2022

Year in Review 2022

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June 13, 2023
Financial Statements

Financial Statements

2022 Financial Statements

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2021 Financial Statements

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2020 Financial Statements

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2019 Financial Statements

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2018 Financial Statements

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2017 Financial Statements

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March 9, 2023
ROOT CAUSES OF FIRST NATIONS POVERTY

At True North Aid, we seek to celebrate the rich diversity of Indigenous peoples across Canada. Since 2017, True North Aid has cultivated meaningful relationships between our organization and Indigenous communities across Canada through active learning and by working alongside Indigenous leadership, elders, and community members. These relationships have honed our understanding of the significance and complexity of the socio-economic barriers that Indigenous communities, particularly in the north, face every day, and how these barriers limit their ability to reach full potential.

True North Aid recognizes that these barriers are a direct result of the aftermath of forced assimilation of Indigenous people through residential schools and outdated discriminatory policies, such as the Indian Act, which sought to remove and erase Indigenous culture within Canada, and continue to limit the ability of Indigenous people to determine their own future.

As a humanitarian organization, True North Aid is uniquely positioned to address these barriers. Our mandate is to serve and support northern Indigenous communities that continue to live with works alongside individuals, groups and organizations to help lift the burdens, big or small, through the collection and purchasing of school supplies, winter clothing, beds, food and many funding opportunities to help empower communities.

In this article, we take the time to review why poverty exists in Inuit, First Nations and Métis communities across the country.

_________________________________________________________________________

Segregation and the Indian Act

Segregation of Indigenous peoples living in Canada was enforced by the Indian Act, which in turn advised the creation of the reserve systems, residential schools and Indian hospitals. The Indian Act of 1867 effectively forced segregation of First Nations, Métis and Inuit Peoples, assigning them to live in areas undesired by the settlers in Canada while exploiting resources around these areas.. Many of these areas lacked significant resources to live off the land and prosper through traditional hunting and gathering methods and other agricultural methods. Today, however, you’ll find some communities that have set up their agricultural ventures, including greenhouses, community gardens and other traditional harvesting methods.

Remoteness of Communities

Many communities are located further away from city centres where accessing basic needs at an affordable cost is difficult. Many are situated so far away that they are only accessible by plane or ferry, sometimes by winter road from January to March. The remoteness of these communities makes it difficult to provide food, adequate shelter, education and employment opportunities which are limited even more in communities with populations of 1000 people or less.

Barriers to Education

For many Indigenous youths living in remote communities and on reserves, the barriers to education begin once a child starts school. It is estimated that schools on reserves receive at least 30% less funding than other schools (Creating Equal Opportunities, University of Saskatchewan, Aug 2020). Many schools on reserves do not have access to amenities such as science labs, equipped playing fields, libraries, and access to technology. (National Collaborating Center for Aboriginal Health, n.d.)

Schools often end in Grade 8, forcing parents to send their children or themselves to move off reserve with them to attend high school. Students to relocate to city centres such as Thunder Bay, Winnipeg, and Timmins to attend for high school. Students must first apply for funding to attend high school off-reserve, an amount allotted by the federal government to each community’s education authority. Because of limits on this funding, the communities can only send a specific amount of students each year.

While in these cities, students often billet with families or stay in group homes to complete their education. However, according to national and provincial trends, Indigenous youth ages 12-18 often leave school before completing high school (Open Access Government, 2017). Studies estimate that 40% of Indigenous students ages 15 and over may drop out of school compared to 13% of non-Indigenous students. (Open Access Government, 2017). Many will return to their home communities once they drop out, where employment and other opportunities are harder to attain.

Another barrier is accessing higher education such as college or university; Living in poverty may create barriers to education through the financial costs of education, such as transportation fees, school supplies, and school fees. (National Collaborating Center for Aboriginal Health, n.d.) The responsibility of supporting a household may also prevent people from accessing education.(National Collaborating Center for Aboriginal Health, n.d.)

Lasting Effects of Residential School and Intergenerational Trauma

From the late 1800s through the 1990s, the Residential School System “scooped” Indigenous children away from their parents. This system tore apart families, destroying the fundamental building block of First nations’ Inuit and Métis societies. The residential school intended to forcibly assimilate and remove a child’s culture, language and traditions while learning Christianity and Western values.

Many children died in these residential schools, their deaths were witnessed by other children who were told to keep quiet and sexual, emotional and physical abuse was a common occurrence.

The recovery of unmarked graves at residential schools has recently brought more pain from residential school survivors and their families but an awakened renewal at confronting the hard truths of Canada’s past.

Today, the trauma residential school survivors experienced is often passed on to future generations creating detrimental intergenerational trauma or family violence, and a rise to addictions and mental health issues.

Much has been written about this system, both online and in print. Testimony from lawsuits and the Truth and Reconciliation’s 2015 report details the sudden, traumatic separation of young children from parents and the emotional, physical and sexual abuse endured by children at the hands of priests, nuns and school workers. This testimony can be reviewed on the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation website.

You can read fuller accounts of the Residential School System at these links:

“The Residential School System” from indigenousfoundation.arts.ubc.ca

“A History of Residential Schools in Canada” from CBC archives

“An Overview of the IRS System” from anishnabek.ca

Mental Illness and Addictions

Indigenous peoples in Canada experience mental health and addictions at rates that are more than double those among non-Indigenous people in Canada. Many factors can contribute to mental illness and addictions; previous trauma, social status and economic stability, education and family and friends support and structures, including intergenerational trauma.

Unfortunately, the suicide rates of First Nation people in Canada are 5-6 times higher than non-Indigenous people. Many communities are affected by widespread drug use and harmful behaviours as a coping mechanism to deal with these socio-economic factors and treat mental illness. Addictions often exacerbate mental illnesses such as depression and anxiety.

Today, Indigenous peoples are reconnecting with their traditions such as language, ceremony and other organizations to help those living with mental illness and addictions.

May 15, 2020
Water Challenges in Indigenous Communities
Water Challenges in Indigenous Communities

As of October 2019, there are 58 Indigenous communities across Canada under long term drinking water advisories. Communities that have no running water at all were not considered when this number was tallied. For example, 10% of First Nation communities have no water services. Across Canada, there are approximately 1800 homes on reserve lacking water service and 1777 that are lacking any type of sewage service. The current Federal government has committed to lifting all long-term water advisories by 2021, which means that over 1000 water systems across Indigenous communities will be upgraded or replaced in the next few years.

A considerable number of these communities have been under a water advisory for multiple consecutive years. Neskantaga, a First Nation community in north western Ontario has been on a long term water advisory since 1995. Other communities include Grassy Narrows, Chippewa of Georgina Island, Eabametoong, and Nibinamik, just to name a few.
What is a water advisory?
An advisory is considered “long term” when it has been in place for 1 year or more.

According to Health Canada, there are three types of water advisories;

Boil Water Advisories/Orders: Tap water should be brought to a rolling boil for at least one minute before using it for drinking or brushing your teeth. This advisory is issued when there are disease-causing bacteria, viruses or parasites in drinking-water systems.

Do Not Consume Advisories/Orders: Tap water should not be used for drinking or used for brushing teeth, cooking, washing food in, making infant formula or bathing infant/toddlers in or for giving to pets. Adults and older children can still use for bathing. This advisory is issued when there is a contaminant in the water that cannot be removed by boiling.

Do Not Use Advisories/Orders: Tap water should not be used for any reason. This advisory is issued when exposure to the water could cause skin, eye, or nose irritation and the contamination cannot be removed by boiling.
There are many reasons why the water treatment plants do not function properly in Indigenous communities;
Being undersized for the community; lack of capacity to serve community needs

Poor or improper design

Other faulty equipment like sewage, power generators going out etc.

Use of inappropriate technology

Lack of funding or training to ensure the infrastructure is properly maintained

Inability to retain certified water plant operators
How does the system work?
Indigenous Services Canada provides the funds for designing, constructing, and maintaining systems in First Nations.

This funding is allocated through the Department of Indigenous Services Canada, and includes various phases of action in order to resolve a water issue:

feasibility studies

new system design work

interim repairs on existing systems

permanent repairs to existing infrastructure

construction of new infrastructure

improved training and monitoring

Health Canada helps to monitor the water quality (except for British Columbia as they handed it over to the First Nations Health Authority in 2013) and First Nations are responsible for getting the construction done and the maintenance in place.
In Conclusion…

Unfortunately, money does not seem to fix the problem. Bringing First Nations and other experts as partners will be step one into fixing this issue. All Canadians need to be aware of this issue and the severity of it. Canadians need to be vocal and join Indigenous champions like 15 year old Autumn Pelletier to make sure that all indigenous peoples are part of a national strategy that will work for everyone.

Join True North Aid in assisting northern communities with water that is clean and accessible. Click here to DONATE to our water fund.

Further Reading

https://www.vice.com/en_ca/article/mbd4v4/first-nations-in-canada-still-face-chronic-issues-in-getting-safe-drinking-water

http://www.cbc.ca/radio/outintheopen/neighbours-1.4618733/why-so-few-people-on-six-nations-reserve-have-clean-running-water-unlike-their-neighbours-1.4618968

https://www.vice.com/en_ca/article/8xwvx3/the-indigenous-teen-who-confronted-trudeau-about-unsafe-water-took-on-the-un

https://www.thestar.com/news/canada/2017/10/24/enviro-watchdog-blasts-province-for-inaction-on-outrageous-pollution-in-indigenous-communities.html

https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/article-indigenous-teen-autumn-peltier-urges-un-to-respect-clean-water/?fbclid=IwAR3RdctJbDSIsony07LrcU2rRWwIwXo0QneY_p_E3Jrh-LCwzCHQmrFGAeg

(more…)
October 2, 2019
FIRST NATIONS POVERTY IN CANADA

Poverty among Canada’s indigenous peoples should not be accepted as a norm. Self-determination and empowerment is on the rise, and there is hope in economic programs that promote education, in economic gains being made on several fronts, and in the growth in awareness and reconciliation by mainstream culture. But the fact remains that many indigenous peoples live in poverty today and they need your help now.

Children growing up in impoverished conditions are in danger of perpetuating the cycle of poverty. In some provinces, over 60% of indigenous children live in poverty. The child poverty rate among status First Nations children hovers around 50%, a rate that puts these nations on par with Mexico.

True North Aid and many of our sister charities are on the front line of the fight against poverty. On this page we look at how touchstones in True North Aid’s work fights against and moves towards ending poverty in the north.

First, let’s look at some of the broader issues. Here is a look at some of the effects of poverty, with some statistics.

Poverty and Housing

Overcrowding in houses

Many first nations peoples live in houses that are overcrowded with family members from several different generations. In far northern communities, there is a tendency to neglect housing upkeep during the summer when outdoor life takes over. In winter months, low availability of housing space results in overcrowded conditions

According to statistics from 2016, 28% of on-reserve First Nations people and 30% of Inuit in Canada lived in homes qualified as crowded. The basis for reporting overcrowding is that the number of people living in the home outnumber the number of rooms in the home. Compare this to non-indigenous population, where the same rate is 4%.

Houses in poor or unsafe conditions

Many first nations people live in homes that are in need of major repairs. Major repairs included things like defective plumbing or wiring or walls or roofs that needed structural repairs. Indigenous peoples suffering from low income and poor economic conditions are unable to afford essential repairs to homes that are already under-sized and overcrowded.

In 2016, the figure included more than one quarter of all first nations peoples. 43% of first nations peoples on reserves were living in homes that needed major repairs. Among Inuit people, 30% lived in homes that needed major repairs.

Read more about our work with First Nations’ housing.

Poverty and Hunger Among Indigenous Peoples in Canada

Among many isolated first nations and indigenous communities, food prices are exorbitantly higher than in cities and towns in more established areas. Grocery prices in these communities are inflated four times (or more) what people pay elsewhere. Families living on social assistance can barely afford to pay regular prices, let alone these inflated amounts. Indigenous peoples make up 14% of people using food banks in Canada, despite their low population numbers. Here’s a closer look at First Nations food.

Poverty and Unemployment in Indigenous Population

Education rates vs employment

Among non-indigenous Canadians, the rate of education is always higher than it is for first nations and indigenous peoples. In addition, among educated first nations and indigenous peoples the employment rate is lower than it is for non-indigenous Canadians. For example, first nations people who have higher education are able to achieve a rate of only 71% employment, lower than the 80.9% reported for non-Indigenous peoples. Causes of this may be multifarious including systemic racism and differences in cultural understanding. For more information on barriers to employment for Indigenous peoples, click here.

Read more about our efforts at education.

(more…)

September 7, 2019
HOW TO HELP FIRST NATIONS COMMUNITIES IN CANADA

How to Help Indigenous Communities in Canada

True North Aid is one of several Canadian charities and organizations committed to serving northern Indigenous communities in Canada.

The challenges facing Indigenous communities in Canada are complex and the result of many things that have transpired over the past 150 years. True North Aid believes that the right to self-governance and self-determination are key to closing the poverty gap as young people are inspired and empowered to pursue their dreams and build their communities. We provide practical humanitarian assistance through initiatives geared to support self-determination and cultivating relationships. These initiatives are in partnership with individuals and organizations committed to making a difference.

First Nations, Metis & Inuit communities across Canada deserve the right to self-determination and self-governance, better education for their children, improved drinking water, and an overall improvement in their standard of living.

Reducing inequities in northern communities is a collective effort and cannot be addressed overnight. As Canadians, we should seek to understand and celebrate our differences while acknowledging the unique challenges and socio-economic barriers faced by many Indigenous communities.

So, where do we begin?

So, Where do we begin?

Donate

True North Aid is one of few charities working directly with northern and remote communities in Canada. Consider supporting our work and the work of others through financial partnership. A large sum of our expenses goes toward transporting supplies via air, trucking and sealift to northern communities. Through our donation portal, you can contribute to our programs.

Listen

Listen to Indigenous Peoples and educate yourself on their culture and history. Many different cultures and traditions are represented amongst First Nations, Métis and Inuit communities with a variety of perspectives. There is so much to learn through listening. We share some great ways to learn about Indigenous culture and history below.

Volunteer

True North Aid can use your help. Volunteering with charities and organizations like ours will help offset costs that can be better used for our programming. Message us at info@truenorthaid.ca to learn about volunteer opportunities. Fundraisers and suggestions are always welcome!

Read Indigenous Literature

There is a great list of Indigenous authors. Reading Indigenous authors will provide you with a different perspective and books written by non-indigenous authors. We heartily recommend that every Canadian reader of any seriousness take the time to read Indian Horse by Richard Wagamese, Kiss of the Fur Queen by Thomson Highway and The Inconvenient Indian by Thomas King or 21 Things You May Not Have Known About the Indian Act by Bob Joseph.

Other great authors are Lee Maracle, Eden Robinson, Thomas King, Tanya Talaga, and so many others.

Other great authors are Lee Maracle, Eden Robinson, Thomas King, Tanya Talaga, and so many others.

Love reading? Here are some starting points:

Goodreads’ list: Best_Canadian_Aboriginal_Literature
14 Aboriginal women writers you should read
Amazon.ca’s Best Sellers in Native Canadian Literature

Purchase Indigenous Artwork and Designs

Purchasing Indigenous artwork and jewelry isn’t appropriation, but appreciation, as long as you know that it comes from an Indigenous artisan. There are lots of Indigenous artists who sell their work to be appreciated. Check out https://indigenousartscollective.org/ to find some vendors.

Watch and Learn from Indigenous Film and Television

Established in 1992, APTN airs and produces programs made by and for, Indigenous peoples in Canada and the United States. You can watch the news, and find out what makes news in their communities, from their perspective. Watch shows like Cashing In, to see their stories on screen. APTN’s First Contact reality show is also a great way to learn about the beautiful and diverse culture and teachings of Indigenous through the experiences of the participants on the show. Watch these episodes on demand at https://aptn.ca/firstcontact/video/season-1/

CBC also has some great series on their CBC GEM website that tells Indigenous stories and features many documentaries about life in northern communities. Check those out HERE.

In recent years, many great films have been released depicting life in northern Canada and the residential school system. Watch “Indian Horse” on Crave, or catch a community screening or purchase “The Grizzlies” on DVD/Blu-Ray.

Attend a First Nations traditional event like a Pow-wow

Pow wows include traditional costumes, drumming, singing, and a dance competition and there are many held across Canada like the Six Nations Champion of Champions Pow Wow in Brantford, with over 400 participants annually and attended by more than 20,000 people. There is also the largest pow-wow in Canada the, Manito Ahbee Festival in Winnipeg.

Attending pow-wows and traditional Indigenous events are practical ways to meet with and talk to Indigenous Canadians, make friends and learn about their culture, way of life and concerns. Connect with a local college/university and search for local native associations in your area. Check out CBC’s Maggie Moose’s tips for attending a pow-wow.

Attend a Kairos Blanket Exercise

The KAIROS Blanket Exercise program is a unique, participatory history lesson – developed in collaboration with Indigenous Elders, knowledge keepers and educators – that fosters truth, understanding, respect and reconciliation among Indigenous and non-indigenous peoples. Our Indigenous Medical Alliance Team hosted this event in 2018 in Kingston and it was well received.

Check out KAIROS’ website and the great work that they do, including their blanket exercises at www.kairosblanketexercise.org

Listen to indigenous music

Live music is the best, and if you have ever heard a First Nations drum circle, it is astonishingly unique. If you see it in person (at a pow wow, for example) you will see how it is created, the arrangements of the singers and how the voices unite, rising and falling and rising again, as they drum together.

Aside from that, there is a wealth of recorded Indigenous music in all styles, from the folk of Susan Aglukark and Tanya Tagaq, to rock like Hawk and Eagle or hip hop like A Tribe Called Red, to classics like Buffy Sainte Marie. There is something for everyone and if you find the right music it will deepen the connection you will feel with our Indigenous people. Check out the indigenous music awards to find out what’s current.

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September 7, 2019