AFN and Caring Society Announce $23 Billion Settlement for First Nations Children
On April 3, 2023, the Assembly of First Nations (AFN) and the Caring Society announced a historic settlement with the Canadian government for First Nations children affected by the child welfare system. The $23 billion settlement marks a significant step towards reconciliation and justice for Indigenous peoples in Canada.
Background
For decades, the Canadian government has been criticized for its discriminatory policies towards Indigenous peoples, particularly in the child welfare system. In 2016, the Canadian Human Rights Tribunal (CHRT) found that the federal government had willfully and recklessly discriminated against First Nations children by underfunding on-reserve child welfare services. The ruling prompted the federal government to negotiate a settlement with the AFN and the Caring Society.
Details of the Settlement
Under the settlement, the federal government will provide $23 billion in compensation for First Nations children affected by the child welfare system. This includes:
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- $15 billion for direct compensation to First Nations children who were removed from their homes and placed in care.
- $6 billion for supports and services for families and communities affected by the child welfare system.
- $2 billion for research and data collection to ensure the long-term success of the settlement.
In addition to the monetary compensation, the settlement includes a commitment from the federal government to reform the child welfare system in consultation with First Nations leaders and communities. This includes developing a new funding model for child welfare services on reserves and providing greater support for prevention and reunification services.
Reaction to the Settlement
The settlement has been met with praise from First Nations leaders and advocates. National Chief RoseAnne Archibald of the AFN described it as a "historic achievement" and a "significant step towards justice for First Nations children." Cindy Blackstock, Executive Director of the Caring Society, praised the settlement for its focus on direct compensation for First Nations children and for including funding for prevention and reunification services.
The settlement has also been welcomed by the federal government. Prime Minister Xavier Trudeau called it a "moment of reckoning" for Canada and a "path towards true reconciliation."
The $23 billion settlement for First Nations children affected by the child welfare system marks a significant milestone in Canada's journey towards reconciliation and justice for Indigenous peoples. While the settlement does not undo the harm caused by decades of discriminatory policies, it provides a measure of compensation and a commitment to reform the child welfare system in consultation with First Nations leaders and communities. It is a reminder of the ongoing work that is necessary to address the systemic injustices faced by Indigenous peoples in Canada.
Keywords: First Nations, child welfare system, settlement, compensation, reform, reconciliation, discrimination, Indigenous peoples.
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