National Inuit leader skipping premiers' meeting over matter of respect
CBC
The leader of the national organization representing Inuit turned down an invitation to meet with Canada's premiers next week over the inclusion of non-rights-holding Indigenous groups.
Natan Obed, president of the Inuit Tapirit Kanatami (ITK), told CBC News it was disrespectful for Manitoba Premier Heather Stefanson, who chairs the Council of the Federation, to also invite groups that do not represent land claim regions or Indigenous nations.
"Ultimately, it comes down to respect," Obed said.
"What I and my peers within the national Indigenous peoples space are looking for is the respect back for our governance and the people who are elected to lead our people."
Stefanson extended invitations to the Congress of Aboriginal Peoples (CAP), which was created to represent the interests of urban Indigenous people, and the Native Women's Association of Canada (NWAC).
The Council of the Federation represents Canada's 13 provincial and territorial premiers, who are meeting next week in Winnipeg. The council was scheduled to meet with Obed and other Indigenous groups on Monday.
Only one national Indigenous leader is expected to attend the meeting with the premiers.
Métis National Council President Cassidy Caron told CBC News she will participate on Monday when she will present conditions for direct dialogue between the premiers and national Indigenous organizations.
The Assembly of First Nations, which represents the interests of First Nations, will be represented by Manitoba Regional Chief Cindy Woodhouse. RoseAnne Archibald, the former national chief, was ousted last week following a workplace investigation.
In a statement to CBC News, Stefanson said she respects Obed's decision.
Carol McBride, president of the Native Women's Association of Canada, called Obed's move "very unfortunate" and said they would be stronger if they worked together.
"These are our brothers and sisters," McBride said.
"I can't see why they would object to us bringing forth the needs of our women."
National Vice-Chief Kim Beaudin of the Congress of Aboriginal Peoples (CAP) called Obed's decision "disheartening."
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