‘Our children depend on it’: Manitoba chiefs urge people to vote

CTV’s Michelle Gerwing has more on an issue important to Indigenous voters in the April 28 federal election.

As the federal election draws closer, a group of Manitoba First Nations’ chiefs wants people to use their voice by voting.

“Our nations depend on it, our children depend on it, and we depend on you as your leaders to make sure that you go and vote,” said Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak (MKO) Grand Chief Garrison Settee. “Because we’re about to make major changes in this country.”

At the core of those changes is the culture surrounding and the protection of Jordan’s Principle. It’s a legal requirement the federal government is held to which was established by the Canadian Human Rights Tribunal in honour of Jordan River Anderson.

Under Jordan’s Principle the government is obligated to give equitable access to government services to all First Nations children.

At a rally Friday, several leaders of Manitoba First Nations spoke about the importance of Jordan’s Principle and for the federal government to keep up its requirement to First Nations children.

“We have to be able to give them the best opportunity at a good life. And that’s what we’re here to stand for. That’s where all the grand chiefs and the chiefs are here to stand for,” said Southern Chief’s Organization’s Grand Chief Jerry Daniels.

Children like Kai Chambers. His mother, Lisa Muswagon told CTV News Winnipeg his autism diagnosis may not have happened if it wasn’t for Jordan’s Principle.

Muswagon said since her son got the official diagnosis, he went from being treated as a ‘bad kid’ to a child who is celebrated for his differences.

“So for me personally regarding the election coming up it’s important for our voices to be heard especially for our children,” she said.

But she said she hasn’t heard anything from candidates running in her federal riding about Jordan’s Principle.

“The messages I’m hearing in regards to Jordan’s Principle and, you know, things that we’re fighting for are coming from our grassroots leaders.”

Which is why she encourages everyone to vote on Monday too – especially young people.

“I know I felt when I was in my younger 20s that my voice didn’t matter. But it does matter. Every single voice matters.”