Manitoba Indigenous leaders react to Justin Trudeau’s departure

Indigenous leaders across Manitoba are reflecting on Justin Trudeau’s legacy as he steps down after nearly a decade as Canada’s Prime Minister, his departure leaving behind questions about the future of Indigenous relations under new leadership.

Both the Manitoba Metis Federation (MMF) and the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs (AMC) recognized that Prime Minister Trudeau faced challenges during his tenure as Canada’s top elected official, but they’re also acknowledging his significant contributions to advancing Reconciliation in modern Canadian history.

“He’s one that truly brought reconciliation to the forefront,” said David Chartrand, president of the MMF. “In the 30 years I’ve been president, there’s never been a Prime Minister who’s taken the Indigenous file as far as he has.” 

Trudeau announced Monday he’d be resigning as leader of the Liberal Party and as Prime Minister once his party elects a new leader, proroguing parliament until late March.

Betsy Kennedy, Acting Grand Chief of the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs, also recognized the work Trudeau did while in power. 

“I acknowledge Justin Trudeau for his commitment toward reconciliation and building stronger relationships with our Indigenous people,” she said.

While some Canadians may worry about what comes next Kennedy remains optimistic that reconciliation will continue under future leadership and that it’s needed now more than ever.

“Our children are suffering, and we need to help them as leaders,” she said. “We won’t stop until our children are well cared for.” 

Chartrand echoed the remarks saying the calls for action will continue no matter who sits in the PMO. 

“No matter who the Prime Minister is after, we need to understand the PM has responsibilities, and we will hold them accountable,” he said.

In a recent interview with CityNews, Assembly of First Nations National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak emphasized the importance of building relationships with Canada’s political leaders regardless of potential changes in government, saying she has met with Conservative Party of Canada Leader Pierre Poilievre to discuss the concerns of Indigenous people. 

“I’ve met with him three or four times in the last few months,” she said. “We’ll continue to talk about all those important issues.”