Exploring Issues within Canada's Indigenous Populations - Jenna Nadel
Canada's global image as a socially responsible nation is compromised by the ongoing water crisis faced by its indigenous communities. Many First Nations reserves have been under 'boil water advisories'
On the international stage, Canada is looked upon as a highly regarded, socially responsible country. Setting the example that communities go without clean water is not something Canada should be proud of. The lack of clean drinking water for indigenous people taints Canada's reputation.
Exploring Issues within Canada's Indigenous Populations - Water Rights and Access
Historical Legacies
Overtime, governments have taken advantage of unfair treaties signed generations ago
Possible Solutions
Self-government for indigenous communities
Shoal Lake 40 has proposed to build a road to connect its community to the TransCanada highway: this would allow them easy access to build the much-needed water plant system
Concern
169 First Nations communities/reserves have been under "boil water advisories" and/or "Do Not Consume" orders for almost 20 years
Causes
Federal funding is inadequate to provide proper water and waste treatment systems
The federal and local governments are not prioritizing the institutions of these much needed water treatment plants for reserves in particular
Environmental Implications
The reserves have access to water nearby; they simply need the resources to clean that water
Economic Implications
Current situation is unsustainable
Shoal Lake spends $150,000 a year importing bottled water
Political Implications
Access to clean water for these smaller communities is not a priority for politicians
Privatization of water plants
The federal governments fears privatizations because it would result in a loss of power and control
Social/Cultural Implications
Everyone deserves the right to clean water
Why should indigenous people be treated as third class?