That is both an easy question and a tough one all at the same time. It is an easy question because identity is generally about self-identification – i.e., you are who you say you are. It is also a tough question because one’s identity can also be reinforced or damaged by whether one’s identity is…
Month: January 2010
From Frustration to Hope – Balancing Traditional Aboriginal Values with Pressing Social Needs
On Tuesday, January 19, 2010, I attended a breakfast event at the Toronto Board of Trade (BOT). The purpose of the event was to hear Assembly of First Nations (AFN) National Chief Shawn A-in-chut Atleo speak about how we can partner to improve First Nation economies. The event was hosted by the BOT and emceed…
What is a Non-Status Indian?
What is a Non-Status Indian? People ask me this question nearly everyday. Some people think Non-Status Indians are really just Métis people – those with mixed Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal ancestry. Others think that a Non-Status Indian is any person who is not registered under the Indian Act as an “Indian” – i.e. they are not…