AFN’s current focus on past grievances and niche political issues is not serving the best interests of all First Nations peoples
Manitoba’s First Nations must begin critically re-assessing the Assembly of First Nations’ (AFN) direction, especially in light of the negative reactions to Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre’s speech at the AFN’s recent annual meeting in Montreal. Poilievre, advocating for ending the Indian Act and promoting community empowerment, highlighted untapped potential within First Nations hindered by Ottawa’s bureaucracy.
Despite his focus on economic growth, his message received limited applause, with some delegates turning their backs and criticizing him for not addressing issues like missing and murdered Indigenous women and the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP).
The real issue is not Poilievre’s speech but the AFN’s resistance to forward-thinking economic empowerment. This resistance would likely be the same for any leader proposing future-oriented growth and moving beyond historical grievances. Politicians must recognize the AFN’s limitations when trying to reach First Nations with a progressive vision.
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The AFN is a significant national forum but is often criticized for being an exclusive, chiefs-only organization that focuses on past grievances and niche political issues benefiting affluent Indigenous politicians. This focus frequently comes at the expense of a broad-based vision for Indigenous prosperity. As documented by the Frontier Centre for Public Policy’s Aboriginal Governance Index, the AFN often avoids resolutions addressing grassroots concerns or issues like on-reserve corruption and nepotism.
At a recent meeting, the AFN’s national chief praised Ottawa’s $48 billion commitment to reform child and family services, sparking concerns about funding amidst Canada’s debt crisis. Chiefs were pleased with the funding but did not discuss its impact on improving First Nation child and family outcomes, underscoring that new money doesn’t fix broken systems.
Some chiefs criticized Poilievre for not mentioning climate change, ignoring the hardship Ottawa’s carbon tax has caused First Nations. Others reprimanded him for not addressing missing and murdered Indigenous women, failing to see that economic empowerment can uplift on-reserve women and prevent them from going missing.
The criticism of Poilievre’s failure to mention certain topics reflects a broader issue within the AFN: a focus on symbolic gestures over practical solutions. The organization’s preoccupation with issues that resonate within the Ottawa bubble often overlooks the pressing needs of grassroots communities. This disconnect highlights a significant challenge for First Nations leaders who are genuinely committed to fostering economic growth and improving living conditions for their people.
Manitoba’s First Nations leaders need to question whether the AFN’s current approach aligns with their long-term goals. Resistance to future-oriented policies and a focus on historical grievances can stifle innovation and progress. While acknowledging the importance of addressing past injustices, it is equally crucial to develop strategies that promote economic self-sufficiency and resilience.
Furthermore, the AFN’s structure as a chiefs-only organization may limit its effectiveness in representing the diverse interests of First Nations people. A more inclusive approach that incorporates the voices of grassroots community members could lead to more comprehensive and effective policy solutions. This inclusivity would also ensure that the AFN’s priorities align more closely with the needs and aspirations of the broader First Nations population.
To truly empower First Nations communities, leaders must advocate for policies that foster economic independence and growth. This includes investing in education, infrastructure, and entrepreneurship. By focusing on practical measures that create opportunities for future generations, First Nations can break the cycle of dependency and build a more prosperous future.
Manitoba’s pro-prosperity, future-oriented Indigenous leaders should consider looking beyond the AFN and collaborating with politicians and Indigenous groups advocating for a positive, future-focused prosperity agenda. This shift could foster a more effective approach to achieving long-term economic growth and community empowerment.
While the AFN plays a vital role in bringing First Nations issues to the national stage, its current focus may not fully serve the best interests of all Indigenous peoples. By embracing a more forward-looking approach and prioritizing economic empowerment, First Nations leaders can ensure a brighter, more prosperous future for their communities.
Joseph Quesnel is a Senior Research Fellow with the Frontier Centre for Public Policy.
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