AMC Comments Victory for First Nations Children and Families: Canadian Human Rights Tribunal Orders Compensation 2019 CHRT 39
September 6, 2019
Treaty One Territory, Manitoba
AMC Communications
Treaty One Territory, Winnipeg, Manitoba _ Today marks another win for First Nations children and their families as the Canadian Human Right Tribunal (CHRT) issued their 8th non-compliance order (2019 CHRT 39) regarding compensation for First Nations children and their families who were negatively impacted by Canada’s discriminatory practices.
In this ruling, the CHRT has ordered Canada to pay the maximum amount allowable under the Canadian Human Rights Act (CHRA) to compensate First Nations children, youth and families who have been harmed by the child welfare system or were denied or delayed receipt of services due to Canada’s discriminatory implementation of Jordan’s Principle. Specifically, Canada is ordered to pay: $20,000 to each First Nations child who was removed from their home and placed in the child welfare system from December 12, 2007 –November 2, 2017, $20,000 to each First Nation parent or grand-parent who had their child removed from their home from December 12, 2007 – November 2, 2017 and an additional $20,000 to each First Nation child and parent or grand-parent who had their child removed between January 1, 2006 and until discrimination by Canada ceases.
“This decision is monumental. I commend the continued advocacy of the First Nations Child and Family Caring Society and Dr. Cindy Blackstock for the benefit of First Nations children and their families,” said Grand Chief Arlen Dumas. “When we look at the history of First Nation child welfare policy in this country there was one consistent goal: assimilation. Government policy was invasive and destructive; it cut to the core of our Nations,” said Grand Chief Dumas.