Government commitment to Indigenous peoples, issues in question after caucus expulsion of MPs

Statement from Alberta Regional Chief on expulsion of Jody Wilson-Raybould and Jane Philpott from Liberal caucus:

“Earlier today, the Prime Minister announced that Members of Parliament, Jody Wilson-Raybould and Dr. Jane Philpott, were expelled as members of the National Liberal Caucus and had their nominations as Liberal candidates in their respective ridings rescinded. It is deeply concerning to see two strong women who have advocated for First Nations rights and wholesale change for our peoples these past three-and-a-half years kicked out of the government caucus in this manner.

Our Chiefs in Alberta have made progress on a multitude of issues when both Ms. Wilson-Raybould and Dr. Philpott were around the Cabinet table. When they both resigned from Cabinet on matters of principle and stated they wished to serve as members of the Liberal caucus I believe many were comforted to still have them as strong advocates on the government benches. Now only confusion on the government’s commitment to Indigenous peoples and our issues remain. 

Strong women have always played an important role in our First Nations societies. Their advice and warnings should always be taken with the most serious consideration. I hope that the controversy surrounding these events are resolved in an open and transparent manner. First Nations and all Canadians deserve to know what path we are on.”

Regional Chief Marlene Poitras