Indigenous people’s rights could be recognized in future citizenship ceremonies for new Canadians.
The federal Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Ahmed Hussen says new wording will be included in the oath that’s sworn before becoming a Canadian citizen.
If the addition is approved, it would include a pledge to observe the laws of Canada, “including the Constitution, which recognizes and affirms the Aboriginal and treaty rights of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples.”
If passed, these changes to the oath of citizenship would raise newcomer’s awareness and emphasize the importance of indigenous and treaty rights in Canada,” says Hussen.
He calls it an essential step on the path to reconciliation with Indigenous people.
The inclusion of Indigenous rights in the oath was a recommendation of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission.
