Government embarassment of 3rd world conditions on First Nation at UN conference
From http://cnews.canoe.ca/CNEWS/Features/2006/10/08/1978536-sun.html
Native communities our 'Third World' - Feds slammed over neglected treaty rights - By BROOKES MERRITT -- Edmonton Sun
It's shameful that the United Nations - not the federal government - will be the group highlighting the neglect of native treaty rights in Hobbema next month, says the dean of native studies at the University of Alberta.
Ellen Bielawski says a century of ignorance has made aboriginal communities Canada's "Third World embarrassment."
"(Canada) skims along on its international reputation as a peacekeeper, a place of good social programs and all that, yet we have this great black hole that we are ignoring.
"It shouldn't take a UN visit, but the failure of our government to honour treaty rights for things like land and resources is an embarrassing bit of our history."
In November, a UN forum in Hobbema will discuss results of a multi-year study on issues facing indigenous populations around the globe.
"Everything plaguing native populations today, including drug abuse and crime, are symptoms of the marginalized communities we created," Bielawski said.
"It reflects poorly on us that our government hasn't addressed these issues, some have been outstanding for 105 years."
Mel Buffalo, head of the Indian Association of Alberta, said Canada failed its native populations by neglecting treaties and assuming aboriginals would assimilate into mainstream society.
He said what many call "the Indian problem," cannot begin to be addressed until treaty rights are recognized.
"Outstanding land claims cause disputes like Caledonia. Potable water issues make people sick like in Kashechewan.
"Native communities are Canada's Third World. For decades our governments have refused their responsibilities."
Natives continue to be marginalized, he said, because "most people would have to be more than 100 years old" to fully understand the roots of the aboriginal plight.
Buffalo expects the UN forum of up to 50 international delegates to draw at least 2,500 people. The forum will also discuss issues including health, economics, housing and education.