Leaders from Manitoba’s First Nations are voicing their opinions regarding the federal government’s recent budget, highlighting diverse perspectives on its impact on Indigenous communities, as well as the areas of concern that may have been overlooked.
Indigenous leaders across Manitoba argue that the budget represents a cut compared to the previous year. The Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs is advocating for amendments before the upcoming vote scheduled for November 17. Grand Chief Kyra Wilson from the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs emphasized the need for recognition from Canada, stating, “This country is based off of treaties, and we as First Nations are going to be at the table. If Canada doesn’t recognize this, they will continue to see legal challenges across the Country and be in a bigger deficit than they are today.”
Similarly, Grand Chief Jerry Daniels of the Southern Chiefs' Organization described the budget as an “Austerity budget,” pointing out the cuts being experienced within the community. Chief Gordon BlueSky of the Brokenhead Ojibway Nation expressed frustration about the disparity in funding, noting, “When we live in an area that is the most developed of Manitoba, but we’re still being funded at 1900 rates, it doesn’t make sense to me.”
While the leaders acknowledge some positive aspects of the budget, they stress the lack of support in critical areas, including Jordan's Principle, First Nation policing, and housing. They are calling for the implementation of a formal review process that would allow First Nations to voice their concerns and actively participate in shaping future budgets. Chief BlueSky highlighted ongoing issues such as the alarming rate at which children are being taken from families and the lack of follow-up regarding missing women, stating, “On top of all the issues for on-reserve and on-reserve funding, we’re still having our children taken at an alarming rate; we still have our women going missing with no follow-up.”
Grand Chief Daniels further pointed out inefficiencies in the infrastructure investments in Winnipeg, mentioning the water treatment plants. He noted, “Investment is not reflecting the same First Nation investment and contracts; it’s a lost opportunity.” Chief Darryl Wastesicoot from York Factory First Nation shared a recent firsthand experience with the detrimental effects of underinvestment in infrastructure. He stated, “This week we saw firsthand what underinvestment in Infrastructure truly means for our people. York Factory is still stranded without a Ferry or access, supplies, and materials for community projects.”
In contrast, the Manitoba Metis Federation expressed approval for the budget, seeing it as an opportunity to bolster the economy. They welcomed the allocation of $2.8 billion for the Urban Rural and Northern Indigenous Housing Strategy, along with investments aimed at supporting youth, women, and 2SLGBTQ+ individuals.
