What does it mean to be Indigenous in Canada?

This video was produced by Devynn Boyer, a Saskatoon-based SUNTEP (Saskatchewan Urban Native Teacher Program) student, in collaboration with the CBC Creator Network.

As I ask that question, I want to proceed with caution.

For far too often have we been told the answer from outside our communities.

And it's not that we lack the skills or the words to express our stories.

Rather, that we lack the opportunities.

Each time we attempt to speak, the chances are taken, or the chances are token.

To cover the treaties and the promises that have been broken.

So, what does it mean to be Indigenous in Canada?

I'll tell you.

It means that we are 5 per cent of the population.

Yet, we account for 33 per cent of those who are in jail. 

We say it is caused by a racist system.

They blame the victims of the poverty and addictions they caused.