Some Nat’l Aboriginal Groups Welcome Name Change
Thursday, May 19, 2011 at 15:06
At least two national Aboriginal organizations are applauding the Conservative government for changing the name of Indian Affairs to Aboriginal Affairs.
Congress of Aboriginal Peoples National Chief Betty Ann Lavallee says she is “thrilled” to see the name change.
Lavallee says the Congress has been calling for the acknowledgement of constitutional language set out by Section 35 of the Canadian Constitution for years, noting the Act defines Aboriginal Peoples as Indian, Inuit and Metis.
She adds that by using the word “Aboriginal”, the government is moving toward a more inclusive future for the off-reserve Aboriginal Peoples of Canada.
The Metis National Council says the government’s move is a change that better reflects the scope of the ministry’s relationships with First Nations, Inuit and the Metis Nation.
First Nations groups, including the Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations, have voiced concerns with the name changes – and wonder if it signals a shift in government policy, as well.