Federal Pathway Annual Progress Report

Planned for 2021-22:

Through the Indigenous Languages Component, Canadian Heritage will provide funding to a larger number of projects submitted by Indigenous communities and governments under the 2021-2022 Call for Proposals. Canadian Heritage will also continue working with First Nations, Métis Nation and Inuit review committees to assess projects and make recommendations under the 2021-22 Call for Proposals.

Canadian Heritage will discuss with selected Indigenous participants the creation of new agreements under the Indigenous Languages Act (the Act) and will seek approval to conclude such agreements. Canadian Heritage is currently piloting two Pathfinder agreements under the Act: one is with the Nisga'a Lisims Government (from 2019-20 to 2024-25), and the second is a tripartite agreement with the Government of Nunavut and Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated (from 2021-22 to 2025-26).

Update on 2021-22

In 2021-22, funding under the Indigenous Languages Component supported more than 410 projects from First Nation, Inuit, Métis Nation and organizations serving urban Indigenous populations. A broad range of activities that contribute to the strengthening and cultural healing of communities received support. Examples include language and cultural instruction and camps, mentor-apprentice programs, the production of recordings on Indigenous activities, the production of books on storytelling, and the creation of traditional cookbooks.

In 2021-22, Canadian Heritage began funding a tripartite agreement under Sections 8 and 9 of the Indigenous Languages Act with Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated and the Government of Nunavut to increase the number of fluent Inuktut speaking Inuit teachers in Nunavut. The Department also continued to support a second agreement under the Act with the Nisga'a Lisims Government to enhance resources for language learning.

The Call for Proposals for 2022-23 took place in the fall of 2021, and Canadian Heritage is working with First Nation, Inuit and Métis Nation Review Committees to assess projects and make recommendations.

Coming up in 2022-23:

Canadian Heritage will implement the 2022-23 Call for Proposals, which will continue to support Indigenous language projects under the Indigenous Languages Component and will implement any new agreements entered into under the Act.

National partners: The engagement structures for the implementation of the initiative, as part of the implementation of the Indigenous Languages Act, include:

• a Joint Implementation Steering Committee (JISC) comprised of the Assembly of First Nations, Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami, the Métis National Council and Canadian Heritage;
• the Canada-Congress of Aboriginal Peoples Accord Indigenous Languages Table;
• the Inuit-Crown Partnership Committee–Inuktitut Working Group Table;
• the Métis National Council (MNC) and its four governing members; and,
• continued outreach to other national Indigenous organizations.

Regional and community-based partners: In addition, Canadian Heritage is also reaching out to Indigenous governments, other Indigenous governing bodies and Indigenous organizations at the regional and local levels, other federal departments and agencies, and provinces and territories in a collaborative approach to implementing the Act and the initiative. Examples include:

• the Manitoba Métis Federation
• the Nunavut Partnership Table on Language and Education, comprised of the Government of Nunavut, Nunavut Tunngavik Inc. and the Department of Canadian Heritage.

Both the Indigenous Languages Act, and the Indigenous Language and Culture Program support Calls for Justice 2.2ii, 2.3, and 2.4 imploring all governments to invest, support and improve access to Indigenous languages and cultures. They also support Call for Justice 7.5, which asks that governments and organizations support programs, services, and initiatives in Indigenous languages, and Calls for Justice 16.2 and 16.25, which call for the protection and revitalization of Inuit culture and language.

Planned for 2021-22:

In 2021-22 a third-party delivery program under the authority of Canadian Heritage was established, a contribution agreement with the Indigenous Screen Office was put in place and funding was disbursed from the Department to the ISO. The ISO launched calls for proposals and began accepting applications in September 2021.

Update on 2021-22:

In 2021-22 a third-party delivery program under the authority of Canadian Heritage was established, a contribution agreement with the Indigenous Screen Office (ISO) was put in place and funding was disbursed from the Department to the ISO. The ISO launched calls for proposals and began accepting applications in September 2021.

From September 2021 to March 2022, ISO has been assessing all applications and distributing funding to selected projects.

Coming up in 2022-23:

In 2022-23, the ISO will complete its first year of full programming.

National partners: The ISO held a two-year national consultation that led to the launch of new programming initiatives in 2020-21.

Regional and community-based partners: The ISO continues to engage with Indigenous communities.

In spring 2021, the ISO began a cross-country consultation on Indigenous identity. The two-phased consultation included interviews with elders and key partners followed by broader public consultations.

The results will be integrated into the ISO's programming guidelines and policies going forward. The ISO plans to regularly consult with Indigenous communities and adjust its programming to the needs of its partners.

As an Indigenous-led initiative, the Indigenous Screen Office's program directly responds to Call for Justice 2.7 by supporting Indigenous creators, who through their work and projects, will improve the representation of Indigenous Peoples in Indigenous and non-Indigenous media outlets. It also responds to Call for Justice 6.1(i),6.1(ii) and 6.1(iii) by increasing funding and capacity building for Indigenous Peoples. In addition, as part of the process to providing additional ongoing funding to the ISO, PCH responds to Call for Miskotahâ 21 by using the findings in the Métis Specific-Gender Based Analysis Plus tool to guide the decisions on the program.

Planned for 2021-22:

• Continuing meetings with the Indigenous Advisory Circle, Indigenous Peoples, organizations, and governments, and first meetings with survivors' groups and other community-level organizations or groups for advice and guidance on Indigenous initiatives (by end of March 2022).
• Fully operational Indigenous research and digitization team (by end of March 2022) for We Are Here Sharing Stories (WAHSS).
• Launch the first of the contributions funding calls under the Listen, Hear Our Voices (LHOV) contribution program for Indigenous nations, governments, and non-profit organizations to undertake digitization at the community level (by end of March 2022).
• Review of Indigenous content to ensure established protocols and guidelines are followed and Indigenous perspectives are reflected in the creation of new Indigenous related content and incorporated into LAC's website and products.

Update on 2021-22:

• LAC held two Virtual meetings of the Indigenous Advisory Circle in 2021-22, one in May 2021 and the second meeting was held in December 2021. In January 2022, LAC launched the process to create the second phase of new membership for the Indigenous Advisory Circle (IAC). The new IAC phase will be in place for next FY 2022-23.
• To date a team consisting of 3 Indigenous staff have begun working towards project goals for We Are Here Sharing Stories (WAHSS) including the project coordinator. The project leads are in the process of hiring 3 additional Indigenous staff to the team. This places our work as on track, although the hiring process may extend beyond March 2022.
• The Listen, Hear Our Voices (LHOV) contribution program launched the fiscal year 2022-23 funding call for Indigenous nations, governments, and non-profit organizations to undertake digitization at the community level. The call was launched on November 17, 2021, and closed on January 28th, 2022.
• The review of Indigenous content is ongoing, and both new LAC employees and existing LAC employees participate in this review through multiple series of meetings and committees. These efforts will continue on an ongoing basis. This review includes text (descriptions of records) in LAC catalogue; information presented to the public on LAC's website and through LAC's web presence (includes research guides, virtual exhibitions, blogs, podcasts, social media offerings.) Review of Indigenous-related content on LAC's website is scheduled to be completed by August 2022.

Coming up in 2022-23:

• Research, digitization and description of Indigenous-specific documentary heritage in the collections at LAC begins (April 1, 2022).
• Establishment of a visiting Elders program to provide support for Indigenous staff and guidance to LAC (by end of September 2022).
• Establishment of plan to change and adapt its reference services to be more agile and responsive to the needs of Indigenous individuals, communities, organizations and governments (by end of March 2023).
• Development and implementation of responsive Indigenous reference services and activities (by end of March 2023).
• Launch of the second contributions funding call for Indigenous nations, governments, and non-profit organizations (by end of March 2023).

National partners: LAC developed the basis for the initiatives in 2017 in consultation with the Assembly of First Nations, Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami, and the Métis National Council. LAC will update Indigenous governments, other Indigenous governing bodies and Indigenous organizations as implementation continues and when significant developments or milestones take place.

Regional and community-based partners: An Indigenous Advisory Circle (IAC) was established to guide LAC on developing and implementing the Indigenous-specific initiatives. The IAC is composed of First Nations, Inuit and Métis Nation representatives from across the country. These individuals have expertise in archives, libraries, and other heritage institutions. The group has met 2-3 times a year since 2018 to guide this work. The IAC provides LAC with community-level perspectives and contacts that help promote LAC's services with regional and community partners. As the initiative develops, LAC will consult with the IAC on how to best to engage and collaborate with survivor and women's groups.

In a similar vein, an external Indigenous review committee composed of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Nation representatives (separate from the Indigenous Advisory Circle) will review applications to the contribution program and make recommendations for funding. The review committee also has a role in recommending adjustments to the contribution program and connecting LAC with regional and community partners.

Finally, as part of an Indigenous-led team, Indigenous advisors connect LAC with local, community, and regional Indigenous peoples and organizations.

The Indigenous Advisory Circle aligns with Calls for Justice 2.3, 15.2 and 17.25 as a safe and inclusive space with members representing First Nations, Inuit and Métis working to decolonize the decision process at Library and Archives Canada and to provide insight and guidance for Indigenous initiatives that are impactful.

Listen, Hear Our Voices (LHOV) funding program supports Call to Justice 2.2 (ii) indirectly, by increasing opportunities for Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people to access language and culture materials in safe spaces, including through digitization. The program also fully realizes elements of Call to Justice 2.4, which calls on governments to provide funding to preserve knowledge by digitizing interviews with Knowledge Keepers and language speakers.

We Are Here Sharing Stories (WAHSS) program responds to Calls for Justice 2.2 and 2.3 by prioritizing the digitization of published materials as well as archival materials in Indigenous languages as part of the project's digitization plan. WAHSS also responds to Call for Justice 15.2 by prioritizing digitization of records such as Residential School records. Further, The program responds to Calls for Justice 16.2 and 16.25 specifically by incorporating digitization of materials of significance to Inuit communities of various regions. WAHSS also responds to Call for Miskotahâ 21 specifically by digitizing content of significance to Métis Nation kinship ties, including Métis scrip records, Métis Red River long lot cartographic materials and other materials to be chosen in consultation with communities.

Planned for 2021-22:

• Summer 2021: Funding confirmed and program launched.
• Fall 2021: Targeted call for proposals for groups at negotiation tables from August progressively expanded from September.
• Winter 2021: Application closing in December and review of intake for fiscal year 2021-22 and fiscal year 2022-23 funding decisions.

Update on 2021-22:

The program was launched by CIRNAC end of July 2021 and the application period closed on December 1st, 2021.

It has received over 340 applications from coast to coast to coast for the construction or revitalization of spaces that support cultural activities within Indigenous communities.

To date a total $39,513,921 early investment into 14 Indigenous-led projects was made over two years (including $8,350,588 in 2021-22) to support safe access to cultural and language programming. The review of the remaining applications is currently being undertaken and a second round of recommendations is being finalized.

Amongst the early investments, 3 projects were announced by Minister Miller so far:

• The Northern Secwepemc Cultural Centre (BC). This project is a culmination of a 17-year effort by five Northern Secwepemc First Nations to construct a cultural centre in their traditional territory.
• The Skeetchestn Healing Through Culture project (BC). The combination of a pit home & museum will offer a safe location for members to reconnect with the Culture and Language and learn the historical importance and role that women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ individuals played in Secwepemc Culture.
• Support to the Mohawk Council of Kahnawà:ke (QC) new multi-purpose cultural building including the Kanien'keha:ka Onkwawen:na Raotitiohkwa Language and Cultural Center (KORLCC) and the Turtle Island Theatre.

Coming up in 2022-23:

Initiative enters year 2 – its final confirmed year of funding. Projects under the program are completed and may begin to report on success.

National partners: In order to ensure proper coordination of funding and implementation, CSICP has been liaising and coordinating proactively with other government departments in particular with Canadian Heritage, Indigenous Services Canada and Infrastructure Canada.

Regional and community-based partners: The CSICP expects to grow and further its community engagement through regular program updates and sustained communication with funded partners. This includes 14 new Indigenous-led projects so far with more decisions and partner engagements expected in 2022-23.

The Cultural Spaces in Indigenous Communities Program responds to Call for Justice 2.3 requiring all governments to ensure that Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people have safe, no-barrier, permanent, and meaningful access to their cultures and languages in order to restore, reclaim, and revitalize their cultures and identities. The CSICP objectives also align with Call for Miskotahâ 21.

Planned for 2021-22:

In 2021-22, Canadian Heritage launched an interim process open only to Provincial/Territorial Aboriginal Sport Bodies with a deadline for submissions of January 5, 2022.

Update on 2021-22:

In 2021-22, Canadian Heritage (PCH)'s interim process yielded 10 applications. The total requested amount of all 10 applications was $2,807,511 – an oversubscription of $307,511, which indicates that there remains a significant need and demand for this initiative. All 10 applications were recommended for their full base formula amount.

This program's funding recipients serve Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people from First Nations, Inuit, Métis, urban, and northern/remote communities across all of Canada. Projects are led by the community or in collaboration between the community and the client to reflect the culture and needs of participants.

In 2022-2023, Sport Canada will be undertaking a consultation process, facilitated by an Indigenous consultant firm, to evaluate and evolve the SSDIC program with a specific focus on improving the design of the SSDIC Stream Three initiative as it pertains to MMIWG areas of focus.

Coming up in 2022-23:

In 2022-2023, projects funded through the first call for proposals will begin, engagement with National and Regional/Community-based partners will occur to help design the program, and an open call for proposals will be launched.

National and Regional/community-based partners: Canadian Heritage will be seeking engagement with the Aboriginal Sport Circle and Provincial/Territorial Aboriginal Sport Bodies, Indigenous women's groups, other key organizations, and prominent individuals.

Indigenous Reconciliation and Strength for Indigenous Women, Girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ People (SSDIC Stream Three) was developed in response to the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls' (MMIWG). Stream Three funds sports activity projects that create opportunities for Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people to participate in sport activities.

SSDIC Stream Three links to Call for Justice 3.1 by exclusively providing funding for Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ peoples in order to create more opportunities for these individuals to participate in sports activities that positively impact their self-identified health and wellness goals. It also links to Call for Justice 7.3 by supporting Indigenous-led prevention initiatives in the areas of health and community awareness through sport activities.

Planned for 2021-22:

• The implementation of Budget 2021 funding to renew trauma-informed health supports for survivors of Indian Residential Schools, Day schools, and those affected by the issue of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls.
• The implementation of Budget 2021 funding to invest in distinctions-based mental health and wellness strategies for First Nations, Inuit and Métis.

Update on 2021-22:

In 2021-22, trauma-informed health and cultural supports provided access to trauma-informed mental wellness services for Survivors, family members, and others affected by the ongoing crisis of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls. These services include access to cultural supports (Traditional Healers, Elders); emotional supports (Indigenous health workers, trained peer supports); professional counselling services (psychologists, social workers); and assistance with the cost of transportation to access services as needed.

The Government of Canada funds a network of over 135 community-based organizations to deliver emotional and cultural support services. These organizations are diverse, and serve First Nations, Inuit, and Métis clients of all ages, on and off reserve, in the North, and in urban settings. Communities and organizations hire workers that understand the local context and who can provide culturally-relevant supports that are tailored to the needs of the clients they serve. For communities, this means hiring a worker from the community who is embedded in the culture and who may speak the language. In urban settings, an organization might decide that it is most important to hire someone that is familiar with the needs of their clientele and who can meet the needs of clients with diverse identities.

More broadly, Budget 2021 provides $597.6 over three years, starting in 2021-22, in support of distinctions-based mental health and wellness strategies with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Nation. This investment renews funding for the Indian Residential Schools Resolution Health Supports Program and National IRS crisis line, which provide trauma-informed supports for survivors of Indian Residential Schools and their family members. This investment also continued to build community-based supports and capacity and supported workforce development. Through this investment, the Government of Canada continues to support the development and implementation of Indigenous-led, community-based approaches to the delivery of culturally-appropriate services that meet community needs, including for life promotion and suicide prevention, wraparound services at opioid agonist treatment sites and mental wellness teams.

Coming up in 2022-23:

• The implementation of Budget 2022 funding to maintain trauma-informed, culturally-appropriate, Indigenous-led services to improve mental wellness, and to support efforts initiated through Budget 2021 to co-develop distinctions-based mental health and wellness strategies.
• Continued support for the national 24/7 MMIWG crisis line offering immediate emotional assistance.

National and Regional/community-based partners: Emotional and cultural supports are delivered through a network of approximately 135 community-based organizations across the country. Mental health counselling is provided by regulated health providers, in good standing with their provincial or territorial regulatory body, and enrolled with Indigenous Services Canada.

In response to Call for Justice 3.3, Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls Health and Cultural Supports provide access to trauma-informed supports for Survivors, and support healing from unresolved trauma, to help address Call for Justice 7.2.

Complementary investments in Indigenous mental wellness also contribute to the Government of Canada's response to the following Calls for Justice:

• 3.2 – Providing adequate, stable, equitable, and ongoing Indigenous-centred and community-based health and wellness services.
• 3.4 – Ensure sustainable, permanent, no-barrier, preventative, accessible, holistic, wraparound services.
• 3.7 – Provide continual and accessible healing programs and support.
• 7.3 – Support prevention services including suicide prevention strategies.

Continued support for access to trauma-informed health and cultural supports to members of the Métis Nation will help address the Call for Miskotahâ 53.

In recognition of the unique circumstances and needs of the Métis Nation, a specific allocation from Budget 2021 investments was identified for the Métis Nation, helping begin to address the Call for Justice 17.4 and Call for Miskotahâ 53.

Planned for 2021-22:

Pre-engagement on the Co-development of Distinctions-Based Indigenous Health Legislation started in January 2021, with the engagement phase expected to end by Spring 2022.

Update on 2021-22:

In 2021-22, Indigenous Services Canada funded 36 Indigenous organizations to undertake engagement, including women's, national, urban/off-reserve, regional, youth, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ organizations.

A summary report from the one-day virtual event, "An Open Dialogue on Indigenous Health Legislation", which featured an Elders Advisory Circle and Indigenous academics and knowledge keepers from across the traditional territories in Canada, will be released in the Spring of 2022.

Coming up in 2022-23:

• Indigenous Services Canada anticipates funding additional engagement next fiscal year as proposals continue to be received from Indigenous organizations at both the national and regional level interested in participating in the engagement process.
• Indigenous Services Canada will also be working with partners to produce a co-analyzed "What we Heard" report that summarizes all of the engagement undertaken on Indigenous health legislation. This work will help to inform the next phase which is the co-development of legislative options.

National and Regional/community-based partners:

• National Indigenous Organizations,
• Regional First Nations, Inuit, and Métis organizations and governments
• Self-Governing and Modern-Treaty Holders
• Indigenous Women, urban, youth, 2SLGBTQQIA+ organizations
• Indigenous Health Professional Associations
• Métis outside of the Métis Nation's recognized constituency
• Provinces and Territories
• Outreach to academics, legal scholars, and knowledge keepers
• Outreach to the general public

The scope of legislation has yet to be determined and will be established in partnership with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis partners. Having said that, federal legislation creates several opportunities to support Calls for Justice and Calls for Miskotahâ. For example, federal Indigenous health legislation is an opportunity to:

• Establish a new approach as current policy tools have not been enough to close the gaps in health outcomes (CFJ 3.1, 3.2, 3.6, and CFM 9.c, 53, 56, 57).
• Seek to address systemic issues, e.g., create a framework for transformative change that provides more stability (CFJ 3.2, 3.6, and CFM 9.c, 53, 56, 57).
• Offer a stable framework for change and for building trust (CFJ 3.1, 3.6 and CFM 9.c, 53, 56, 57).
• Provide a variety of measures to support Indigenous Peoples to pursue their aspirations, goals, and interests, including the exercise of their rights, as they relate to health (CFJ 3.1, and CFM 53, 56, 57).
• Offer a concrete framework in which agreements and partnerships can occur according to communities' needs (CFJ 3.2, 3.6 and CFM 56, 57).
• Have commitments backed with stable resources, i.e., long-term, predictable, and stable funding (CFJ 3.1, 3.2, 3.6, and CFM 9.c, 53, 56, 57).

Planned for 2021-22:

With a total funding allocation of $1.11 billion in 2021-22 (with $944 million from the 2020 Fall Economic Statement and $164 million from Budget 2019), these investments will support First Nations in ensuring sustainable access to clean water and wastewater treatment in First Nations communities.

Update on 2021-22:

Significant and continued investments have been made to support water and wastewater systems.

Indigenous Services Canada has now increased operations and maintenance funding support to First Nations for water and wastewater infrastructure, which now covers 100% of the operations and maintenance funding formula, up from 80%. The updated operations and maintenance formula better accounts for operating and maintenance costs, and includes new funding to support operators directly (salary, retention, and back-up support).

Indigenous Services Canada continues to support First Nations in addressing the remaining drinking water advisories. In 2021-22, First Nations lifted 25 long-term drinking water advisories from public systems on reserve. Moreover, 34 short-term advisories have been lifted thereby not becoming long-term advisories. Additional initiatives are underway in 28 communities to resolve the remaining 33 long-term drinking water advisories.

Coming up in 2022-23:

In 2022-23, additional funding will support First Nations in ensuring sustainable access to clean water and wastewater treatment in First Nations communities. These investments include combined commitments proposed in Budget 2022 and made in Budget 2021, 2020 Fall Economic Statement, and Budget 2019.

The Department launched a call for proposals on March 2, 2022, to enhance capacity support for water and wastewater operators in 2022-23 and 2023-24. The initiative includes a focus on empowering women and youth in water operations, and creating safe working environments for 2SLGBTQQIA+ people.

National and Regional/community-based partners: Communities being allocated resources to resource safe, clean drinking water.

These initiatives are in response to Call for Justice 4.1, calling on governments to ensure that all Indigenous Peoples have access to clean drinking water in their communities.

Planned for 2021-22:

• From May to August 2021 – the Initial engagement of key partners, including Indigenous Representative Organizations.
• In Fall/Winter 2021–Work with Indigenous Representative Organizations to launch distinctions-based engagement with Indigenous communities.
• October 2021 – A Working document is developed with the Inuit to identify Infrastructure needs within their communities.
• Winter 2022–Launch of the process to request community level information on infrastructure needs within First Nations communities.

Update on 2021-22:

In 2021-2022, this initiative provided funding to Inuit regional organizations and the national Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami to collect information needed to do an assessment of Inuit community/regional infrastructure needs. A report will be available late fall/winter 2022.

Indigenous Services Canada also provided funding for the department of Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs to undertake engagement activities with Métis, Self-Governing and Modern Treaty Nations.

Indigenous Services Canada has raised regional awareness of the project and the need to collect information from individual First Nations on their respective infrastructure needs to close the infrastructure gap by 2030. The work is progressing well and Indigenous Services Canada should receive community lists of infrastructure needs throughout the Summer of 2022.

Indigenous Services Canada has been working with Indigenous organizations, such as the Assembly of First Nations to identify areas for co-development. The Assembly of First Nations identified that First Nations could benefit from support to develop long-term community infrastructure plans. Indigenous Services Canada is working with the Assembly of First Nations to finalize an approach. Regional engagements to support communities with long-term infrastructure planning will be launched over the coming months.

Coming up in 2022-23:

In 2022-23, Indigenous Services Canada will be engaging Indigenous communities to provide the Department with community-identified lists of critical infrastructure and housing needs, inclusive of funding to repair existing infrastructure, for addressing the critical infrastructure gap. This includes:

• March to June 2022: Engage communities and obtain lists of new infrastructure assets and repairs to existing assets needed to close the infrastructure gap by 2030.
• June to September 2022: In-depth analysis and costing of requests submitted by communities.
• Fall/Winter 2023: Develop documentation for potential Budget 2023 inclusion.

National and Regional/community-based partners: Indigenous Services Canada and Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada are working closely with Indigenous Organizations to co-develop distinctions-based engagement strategies. Communities will have broad engagement options through the department directly, Indigenous organizations or a web portal.

This initiative supports Calls for Justice 4.1; 4.6; 4.7; 4.8; 13.5; 16.5; and 16.7, oriented toward infrastructure in Indigenous communities. Call for Justice 4.1 calls on the government to ensure Indigenous Peoples have services and infrastructure that meet their social and economic needs. The co-development of community infrastructure plans is the first step to addressing the long-standing issues. It is important to note that the identification of needs rests with each individual community, giving them the opportunity to specify their priorities.

In support of Calls to Justice 4.6, 4.7, and 4.8, Indigenous communities will have an opportunity to identify their housing, shelter, transition homes and transportation needs in their lists of required infrastructure to close the infrastructure gap that exists between most Indigenous and non-indigenous communities. ISC also is working with Indigenous Partners to ensure that a GBA/Diversity lens is applied to the identification of infrastructure assets needed to close the infrastructure gap and with how the federal government can implement indigenous infrastructure differently and better.

As noted in Call for Justice 13.5, an integral component of the analysis of the requested infrastructure will be to ensure the capacity of the existing infrastructure to support any new developments and take measures in instances where new or expanded capacity will be needed.

As noted in Calls to Justice 16.5 and 16.7, Inuit communities/regions will have the opportunity to identify any Internet and telecommunications requirements as well as those to ensure the availability of effective, culturally appropriate, and accessible health and wellness services in their report on the assessment of infrastructure needs.

Planned for 2021-22:

First Nations:

• August–September 2021: Finalization of design of the program and finalization of the new "Grant to the Métis Nation British Columbia from the Indigenous Community Infrastructure Fund".
• Indigenous Services Canada funding flows for the implementation of shovel-ready projects for housing, education facilities and health infrastructure for First Nations on reserve.
• Late 2021: Launch of a call for proposals process to select shovel-ready projects for the Urban Programming for Indigenous Peoples program.
• Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada (CIRNAC) funding flows to Inuit, Métis, Northern, and Self-Government and Modern Treaty communities. CIRNAC is to enter into agreements with each of the governing members of the Métis Nation and the Métis Settlements General Council to deliver Indigenous Community Infrastructure Fund programming to their respective members.
• CIRNAC engages with Self-Government Agreements and Modern Treaties partners on a government-to-government basis to determine funding allocations for each Indigenous government.

Inuit:

Since 2016, the Government of Canada has committed over $800 million to improve the housing conditions in the four Inuit regions of Inuit Nunangat. Through the Inuit-Crown Partnership Committee, Inuit and the Government of Canada are implementing the co-developed Inuit Nunangat Housing Strategy (2019). The overall goal of the Strategy is to improve housing outcomes in Inuit Nunangat in line with the rest of Canada.

Budget 2021 announced the $4.3 billion Indigenous Community Infrastructure Fund (ICIF) for Indigenous‑led infrastructure and housing projects. From this amount, a total of $517.8M over four years is being delivered to the four Inuit land claims organizations / governments for Inuit-led infrastructure. This represents historic, distinctions-based infrastructure investments.

Métis:

Investment made in 2021-2022 by Crown Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs through the Indigenous Community Infrastructure Fund will support better access to community and cultural centres, transportation infrastructure, water and wastewater systems, rental and temporary housing developments, and housing projects associated with culturally appropriate healing programs.

Update for 2021-22:

First Nations:

Investment made in 2021-2022 by Indigenous Services Canada through the Indigenous Community Infrastructure Fund in the areas of housing, school facilities and access to health care infrastructure, will help communities address critical infrastructure gaps and alleviate the disproportionate impact COVID-19 has had on Indigenous people. As of December 31, 2021, the department provided funding to 172 First Nation communities in support of the following projects:

• 181 Housing projects to address on-reserve housing needs, including new builds, retrofits and renovations.
• 21 School facilities projects to support new construction and/or renovations to existing schools.

In addition, Indigenous Services Canada provided funding in 2021-22 in support of 16 health infrastructure projects.

Inuit:

With this funding, Inuit are prioritizing areas that have been historically and chronically underfunded, such as community centres, sports and leisure facilities, multi-purpose spaces; transportation and road repair work; small craft harbour and community dock enhancements; community kitchens and greenhouses; child and elder care centres, women's shelters, and short-term lodging for construction workers, with flexibility to pivot to support tourism and other community needs post-construction.

Métis:

Funding provided by the department is planned to support:

• 55 housing units to serve as low-income rentals and temporary accommodations for families travelling to access hospital care
• 15 mixed-use community buildings to enable culturally-informed programming for wellness, mental health and addictions, and a place for citizens to access government services

Coming up in 2022-23:

• Funding and implementation of shovel-ready projects;
• Funding for Urban Programming for Indigenous Peoples and water and wastewater projects begins in 2022-23.

National and Regional/community-based partners: ISC and CIRNAC will work closely with Indigenous partners on a distinctions basis to support implementation of this funding (First Nations on reserve, Inuit, Métis, Self-Governing and Modern Treaty communities, northern Indigenous communities, and urban and rural Indigenous service delivery organizations). The departments will draw on past engagement and co-development which informed the Budget 2021 requests. ISC and CIRNAC will also work with all other relevant federal departments to support a whole-of-government approach to addressing Indigenous infrastructure needs.

As of this fiscal year, ICIF funding earmarked for health infrastructure is being used toward 19 shovel-ready infrastructure projects. These investments can be linked to Call for Justice 13.5, that policing, social services and health services are adequately staffed and resourced in the context of meeting the anticipated needs of host communities where development projects and resource extraction may be taking place.

The ICIF also supports Call for Justice 4.6, which calls for the Government to commence the construction of new housing and the provision of repairs for existing housing to meet the housing needs of Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA people. The fund supports the immediate demands, as determined by Indigenous partners, for ongoing, new and shovel-ready projects in Indigenous communities, including First Nations, Indigenous Self-Government and Modern Treaty partners, Inuit and Métis communities, and can include new housing constructions, renovation, and retrofit projects.

Further, ICIF funding can support Call for Justice 4.7 which calls for the establishment and long-term sustainable funding of Indigenous-led low-barrier shelters, safe spaces, transition homes, second-stage housing, and services for Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA people who are homeless, near homeless, dealing with food insecurity, or in poverty, and who are fleeing violence or have been subjected to sexualized violence and exploitation. From 2022-2023 to 2024-2025, $194.9 million will be allocated to eligible urban and rural Indigenous service delivery organizations to directly support retrofits, repairs and upgrades to existing facilities, as well as support the construction of new publicly-accessible community buildings that serve the needs of urban and rural Indigenous Peoples. Indirectly, these organizations would deliver services that could support Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA people at the determination and direction of Indigenous partners.

In its Inuit and Métis components, this initiative also supports Call for Justice 16.19 and Calls for Miskotahâ 25 and 26.

Planned for 2021-22:

• Upon confirmation of funding for this program in summer 2021, engagement took place with the National Families and Survivors Circle on its development and design.
• The inaugural call for proposals to the new program was launched in August 2021, with a submission deadline of October 14 2021.

Update on 2021-22:

In 2021-22, this new program funded 19 projects led by Indigenous organizations. These organizations are comprised of 9 First Nation, 2 Inuit, 1 Métis and 7 organizations that include two or more distinctions. Of these organizations, 9 provide Stream One – Individual Projects, 4 provide Stream Two – Resource/Navigator Service and 6 offer a combination of the two streams.

Individual projects include commemorative events and installations, healing gatherings, and workshops. Resource/navigator services include access to websites that will help navigate to services and resources such as wellness kits, counselling services, referrals to supports and services, increased operating hours of safe spaces to allow for more access to services, establishing a community committee that will be trained and equipped to respond to families and survivors' needs.

All funded organizations are indigenous, and include Inuit regional government organizations, First Nations, Métis, service delivery and grass roots organizations.

Coming up in 2022-23:

A new call will be opened for 2022-23. In addition, approximately 15 organizations will be funded for new projects in 2022-23, in addition to the continued funding provided to organizations for multi-year projects from 2020/21, thus providing additional resources and supports to family members and survivors through the program.

National partners: National Family and Survivors Circle (for design of program)

Regional and community-based partners: For implementation: Indigenous grassroots groups, non-profit organizations, communities etc.

This initiative supports Calls for Justice oriented toward supporting Indigenous organizations to deliver healing and wellness activities, programs, and services to families and survivors of missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people, including children and youth and links in the following ways:

Responding to the Call for Justice 3.7, the design of this program involved discussions with the National Family and Survivors' Circle regarding eligibility requirements and other factors. To address this call, new Terms and Conditions were created for this program that aim to improve accessibility and remove barriers to support.

In response to Call for Justice 5.6, the program guidelines are designed to fill existing gaps and expand the scope of activities eligible for funding, and also addresses Call for Justice 17.20 through its program guidelines and eligibility.

In response to Call for Justice 20, this program funds Indigenous organizations and families, inclusive of the Métis, to engage in healing work. As such, it supports this call in the area of healthcare and child and family welfare.

More broadly, the initiative also links to the Principles for Change that underpin the National Inquiry's Calls for Justice through support for culturally relevant and trauma informed Indigenous led projects and services. The initiative also supports distinctions across Canada including in urban, northern and remote locations.

Planned for 2021-22:

• Appointment of an interim Executive Director;
• Appointment of the President;
• Appointment of Part-time Commissioners;
• Appointment of Secretariat staff; and,
• Put in place necessary administrative support.

Update on 2021-22:

Work to re-establish the Commission has been ongoing throughout out fiscal 2021-22. This included work to re-establish the Secretariat and make sure the proper administrative and logistical supports are in place, and work on appointing a President and part-time Commissioners.

Hiring of Secretariat staff is expected to conclude early in 2022-23.

Coming up in 2022-23:

It is expected that the Law Commission will be up and running in fiscal 2022-23.

National and Regional/community-based partners: Once the President is in place it is expected that the Commission will start a process of consultations across many diverse groups, as well as with the Advisory Council it will establish (per the enabling statute), to help determine that research work plan.

The manner in which the Commission will address the identified Calls for Justice will depend on how the independent Law Commission structures its research plan once it is established and operational.

Depending on the decisions of the Commission with respect to what areas of law they will examine and report on, the Commission may address or recommend amendments to the Criminal Code or other legislation to address Indigenous-specific legal questions and justice issues (Calls for Justice 5.2, 5.3, 5.14, 5.17, 5.18).

Planned for 2021-22:

The funding includes three components:

1. Funding for Gladue Report Writing through the Indigenous Courtwork Program.
2. Funding for Gladue Casework/Aftercare for individuals who have had a Gladue Report through the Indigenous Justice Program.
3. Funding for projects informed by Gladue Principles that focus on educating justice professionals and changing structures, policies, practices and institutions in the criminal justice system. Funding to be delivered through the Indigenous Justice Program.

Launch and close a Call for Proposals for the project component with the funding agreements in place by the end of 2021-2022.

Develop funding proposals and implementation strategies with Indigenous, provincial and territorial partners for the Gladue Report writing and aftercare.

Update on 2021-22:

Justice Canada has engaged provincial and territorial partners through regular Federal, Provincial and Territorial Working Group meetings and bilateral discussions on jurisdictional specific implementation plans. Justice Canada also has an ongoing dialogue with Indigenous community partners and service delivery agencies, and will continue to work closely with them throughout the roll-out of this initiative in the Fall of 2022.

The Call for Proposals for the project component launched in July 2021 and closed in August, 2021. 31 projects have been approved to date, with a few remaining decisions and agreements yet to be finalized. Funding agreements with Indigenous community-based recipients for Gladue Casework/Aftercare have been signed in those same jurisdictions.

In addition, Agreements with PE, NS, QC, ON, AB, BC and YT for Gladue Reports were approved by the Minister of Justice on March 28 and are in the process of being finalized.

Coming up in 2022-23:

Ongoing onboarding of jurisdictions and community partners for Gladue Reports and Aftercare.

National and Regional/community-based partners: Justice Canada has engaged provincial and territorial partners through regular Federal, Provincial and Territorial Working Group meetings and bilateral discussions on jurisdictional specific implementation plans. The Justice Canada has an ongoing dialogue with Indigenous community partners and service delivery agencies, and will continue to work closely with them throughout the roll-out of this initiative in the Fall.

This initiative responds to Call for Justice 5.15 and Calls for Miskotahâ 42 and 43 specifically by implementing funding for Gladue Report writing through the Indigenous Courtwork Program.

This initiative also responds to Calls for Justice 5.11 and 5.16 specifically by implementing additional funding for Restorative Justice programs (5.11) and community-based and Indigenous-specific options for sentencing (5.16).

Planned for 2021-22:

Internal capacity will be increased to support Administration of Justice agreement work.

Additional Justice capacity is responsible for leading AoJ negotiations through the Recognition of Indigenous Rights and Self-determination (RIRSD) process, which entails:

• engaging with Indigenous groups and provinces/territories;
• providing legal and strategic advice; briefing senior management;
• preparing and overseeing development of documents; supporting the Justice Canada team;
• preparing and managing comprehensive documents (reports, studies, planning documents);
• consulting with other governments, departments, and sectors / regions; communications regarding negotiations;
• fact finding background information and collecting documents;
• research/analyze contextual legal and historical documents; and,
• travel to Indigenous communities.

Update on 2021-22:

In 2021-2022, Justice Internal capacity was increased to support the negotiation of Administration of Justice (AoJ) agreements through the Recognition of Indigenous Rights and Self-Determination (RIRSD) process.

In addition, dialogue with leaders and Indigenous communities through their participation in Recognition of Indigenous Rights and Self-Determination Discussion tables has increased. Currently, work is ongoing on twelve tables.

Coming up in 2022-23:

The Department of Justice has fully increased its capacity to enable officials to participate at twelve tables at which potential administration of justice agreements are being discussed. These include Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada's (CIRNA) Recognition of Indigenous Rights and Self-Determination discussion tables (RIRSD). Indigenous partners' participation at these tables is supported through other sources, including through CIRNA's RIRSD funding. As part of this work on a range of tables, Justice is advancing 2 draft Negotiation Mandate Proposal's setting out proposed agreements between Canada and Indigenous governing bodies that can be taken to Ministers/Indigenous leaders for approval over the next two years.

National partners: CIRNAC and other relevant departments.

Regional and community-based partners: Ongoing partnerships with negotiating communities.

The negotiations of Administration of Justice Agreements support Calls for Justice 1.4, 1.6, 5.1, 5.4, 5.9. 5.10. 5.11, 5.16, 16.41, and 17.27. AoJ agreements could impact upon Canada's advancement in its national approach for reconciliation and self-determination for Indigenous peoples and improve the Crown-Indigenous relationship. The creation of AoJ agreements will support respective communities' abilities to exercise control over this core aspect of self governance, which permeates and supports all aspects of daily life, reinforcing the strength of the community and its health and safety. A strong justice system can also assist with the development of other sectoral areas like land and financial management.

Advancing AoJ agreements will also form a key part of the development of an Indigenous Justice Strategy – a new government mandate commitment. Specifically, the development of agreements will help address systemic discrimination and the overrepresentation of Indigenous people in the justice system. The engagement of the Indigenous community means that their lived experience, as well as their expertise and agency of families and survivors is drawn upon for this work. Connections are made to bring an end to the inequalities which contribute to the disproportionately high levels of violence against Indigenous women and girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ peoples.

This work emphasizes the importance of the sharing of strengths, respects diversity and grounds activities in local Indigenous values and governance systems, rooted in land, culture, spirituality and relationships.

Planned for 2021-22:

• Consultation and cooperation on development of an action plan;
• Consultation and cooperation on development of a draft action plan and the identification of potential measures for ensuring the consistency of federal laws with the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (Declaration);
• Development of tools and interim guidance with respect to measures to ensure the consistency of laws with the Declaration;
• Training delivered to support public servants' understanding of the Declaration and the UN Declaration Act; and,
• Work on legislative initiatives to meet the requirements of s. 5 of the UN Declaration Act.

Update on 2021-22:

Outputs for the 2021-22 period include the public launch, on December 10, 2021, of the engagement process to develop the initial draft of an action plan and begin to identify potential measures for aligning federal laws with the Declaration, in consultation and cooperation with Indigenous peoples. This launch included an open call for proposals to support the participation of Indigenous peoples, organizations and groups in the engagement process, and support for Indigenous-led consultations with their citizens and members to identify priorities for the development of the action plan.

Coming up in 2022-23:

Complete development of the first annual progress report to Parliament and a draft action plan, in consultation and cooperation with Indigenous peoples. The action plan will be tabled in Parliament in 2023-24 and implementation will subsequently commence.

National and Regional/community-based partners: Inclusive and distinctions-based engagement process with Indigenous rights holders, representative organizations and groups at the national, regional and local level. Discussions with provinces and territories and industry associations will also occur as part of the process.

Call for Justice 1.2v specifically calls on all governments, together with Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people to implement the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. Enacting the UN Declaration Act, and collaborating with Indigenous partners to create a plan to implement the Act, directly responds to this Call for Justice including the requirement to recognize, protect, and support Indigenous self-determination and self-government.

It further supports Calls for Miskotahâ 1, 16 and 17. To this end, Justice staff have met with Métis rights holders, representative organizations, and groups representing Métis women to share information about the Call for Proposals. We anticipate that a number of these organizations will provide input in the development of the action plan.

Planned for 2021-22:

The Indigenous Justice Program (IJP) will provide program integrity funding to its existing Indigenous community-based programs via their funding agreements under its Community-Based Fund.

Funding for civil and family mediation will be delivered through a Call for Proposals process open to existing IJP recipients. Decisions will be made and funding included in the above mentioned funding agreements.

Update on 2021-22:

Funding agreements for program integrity and civil and family mediation funding have been finalized.

Funding for program integrity for existing IJP supported programs was included in their recently signed 5 year funding agreements. These agreements cover the federal government's contribution to the community-based justice programs run by IJP's Indigenous community partners. Program Integrity funding focussed on top-ups to existing salary, training and travel budgets. These budget increases will allow programs to continue to provide high-quality justice programming and enhance their stability.

Decisions on Civil and Family Mediation were made based on a Call for Proposals open to existing IJP supported programs for the following types of initiatives: a) capacity building and training; b) enhancing and expanding existing programming; and c) developing and testing new models. Funding was provided to 39 IJP supported programs for initiatives ending before March 31, 2024.

The approach for the development and delivery of victims training is still under development. Engagement with partners will commence in early 22-23 and funding will begin to roll out by the third quarter of 22-23.

Coming up in 2022-23:

Funding for the development and delivery of trauma-informed victims training will begin to roll out in 2022-23.

National and Regional/community-based partners: The Indigenous Justice Program will partner and engage with Provincial and Territorial delivery partners and existing Indigenous community partners. This will be done through existing working groups and bilateral discussion with Provinces and Territories and in one on one discussions with existing Indigenous recipients. Some initial information sharing was done, with more discussions to follow confirmation of funding.

This funding directly addresses Call for Justice 5.6 and Calls for Miskotahâ 20 & 41 by providing additional support to victims and culturally appropriate restorative justice programs in light of eliminating the overrepresentation of Indigenous people in custody.

Planned for 2021-22:

Funding allocations discussed and determined with the ICW Federal/Provincial/Territorial working group. Minister of Justice approved March 28, 2022.

Funding for support of Family Court Worker services delivered through existing ICW agreements with Quebec, Ontario, Saskatchewan, Alberta and the Northwest Territories.

Update on 2021-22:

Funding agreements to support the delivery of Indigenous Family Court Worker services were approved by the Minister of Justice on March 28 for QC, ON, SK, AB and NT.

Justice Canada continues to work with remaining jurisdictions in support of Indigenous Family Court Worker services.

Coming up in 2022-23:

Ongoing discussions with remaining jurisdictions to support Family Court Worker services where needed.

Provincial, territorial and community-based partners: The Indigenous Courtwork Program will engage with Provinces, Territories and service delivery agencies to determine implementation of Family Court Worker services. This will be done through existing working groups.

This initiative responds to Calls for Justice 1.8 & 5.11, as well as Calls for Miskotahâ 20 & 41 by making additional permanent funding available for civil and family mediation in light of increasing accessibility to meaningful and culturally appropriate mediation services.

Planned for 2021-22:

Pre-engagement discussions with partners aim to:

1. co-develop a mutual vision and scope for an Indigenous Justice Strategy;
2. identify preliminary joint-priorities and gaps; and,
3. identify potential engagement frameworks or plans.

Update on 2021-22:

Following the call for proposal process, grant letters for successful applicants to support Indigenous-led engagement were approved by the Department on March 25th, 2022.

Justice Canada continues to work with other federal government departments, provinces and territories, and Indigenous partners on the Indigenous Justice Strategy as it develops.

Coming up in 2022-23:

Indigenous-led and Justice-led engagements will take place. Funding for Indigenous-led engagement is rolling out through multi-year grant agreements.

Indigenous-led and Justice-led engagements are intended to gather input, ideas, and proposals that will inform the development of an Indigenous Justice strategy. Input is expected to identify concrete measures needed throughout the justice system continuum, social supports, and the need to revitalize Indigenous justice systems, self-determination, and Criminal Code reforms. The engagement approach under the development of the Indigenous Justice Strategy is designed to fully respect the self-determination of Indigenous groups across the country, and to take a distinctions-based approach to gathering input, ideas, and reflections on how to address this pressing justice specific issue together with Indigenous partners.

The first interim reports from Indigenous-led engagements are expected in December 2022.

In addition, ongoing work by the Federal Provincial Territorial Aboriginal Justice Working Group on the Pan-Canadian Strategy will feed into the Indigenous Justice Strategy, including building on Provincial Territorial networks with communities.

National partners and Regional/community-based partners: Partners and funding recipients for Indigenous-led engagements will be determined based on priorities identified, and applications approved through the call for proposals. Partners for Justice-led engagements will be determined based on priorities and on a regional and distinctions basis (with anticipated PT involvement).

The engagement approach under the development of the Indigenous Justice Strategy is designed to fully respect the self-determination of Indigenous groups across the country, and to take a distinctions-based approach to gathering input, ideas, and reflections on how to address this pressing justice specific issue together with Indigenous partners, therefore supporting Calls for Miskotahâ 8, 16, and 41.

This work also supports Calls for Justice 5.1, 5.3, 5.10, 5.11, 5.12, 5.21, 9.1, and 9.2, which focus on changes required within the justice system that would help address systemic racism and overrepresentation and that could be the focus of discussions under the development of an Indigenous Justice Strategy. The Strategy itself may address these calls for justice more specifically.

Planned for 2021-22:

There is ongoing engagement (outreach and monitoring of impacts) on former Bill S-3. In the fall/winter of 2021-2022 there will be an evaluation of the solutions to address residual impacts of previous sex-based inequities and remaining non sex-based inequities in Indian registration.

Update on 2021-22:

As of April 4, 2022, and since former Bill S-3 has come into force, the processing unit has achieved the following:

• 45,663 applications received;
• 37,438 applications processed;
• 28,152 persons newly eligible; and,
• 9 Trusted Source partnerships have been established with community organizations to provide access to services in an urban setting.

Trusted Source partnerships have also assisted in expediting application review. A Trusted Source is an individual, organization, or a provincial or federal department that has been designated a reliable partner of information and has been evaluated as able to assess identity information and assist clients in accessing programs and services, including registration under the Indian Act and the Secure Certificate of Indian Status.

There are 6607 files yet to be reviewed. On average, over 1600 files are processed each month.

Coming up in 2022-23:

Ongoing work on residual impacts of previous sex-based inequities and remaining non sex-based inequities. Possible consultation/engagement process.

National and Regional/community-based partners: Engagement to date has been multi-pronged, and Indigenous Services Canada has collaborated with partners named below. If the Department is granted a mandate for more outreach and engagement, the number of partners will expand.

Internal Partners:

• Non-Insured Health Benefits,
• Communications,
• Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada, and
• Justice Canada

External Partners:

• Assembly of First Nations,
• Native Women's Association of Canada,
• Feminist Alliance for International Action,
• Provinces and Territories, and
• Indian Registration Administrators (IRAs) in First Nation Bands across the country.

This initiative contributes to Call for Justice 1.2v by ensuring women and their descendants (of all genders) are entitled to be registered and able to seek band membership based on the legislative changes introduced through former Bill S-3 Eliminating known sex-based inequities in registration in the Indian Act.

The initiative does not contribute to the Calls for Miskotahâ as our program serves First Nations individuals.

Planned for 2021-22:

Co-development of First Nations police services legislation:

• Relationships will be established with the Assembly of First Nations, the First Nations Chiefs of Police Association and First Nations Police Governance Council

Engagement on Inuit and Métis policing and community safety priorities:

• Preliminary work with Inuit and Métis partners, ISC, CIRNA, and provinces and territories to identify policing and community safety priorities that may be supported by the Government of Canada

Update on 2021-22:

Engagement for the Co-Development of First Nations police services legislation:

Relationships with the Assembly of First Nations, the First Nations Chiefs of Police Association and First Nations Police Governance Council were established and contribution agreements set with AFN and FNCPA. Bilateral engagement with these organizations is ongoing.

Federal-Provincial-Territorial Indigenous Policing Committees established to ensure that the federal legislation is informed by provincial/ territorial perspectives and is complementary to existing provincial/territorial police legislation and regulations.

Engagement on Inuit and Métis policing and community safety priorities:

PS has begun preliminary work with Inuit and Métis partners, ISC, CIRNA, and provinces and territories to identify policing and community safety priorities that may be supported by the Government of Canada. This will support the development and implementation of the proposed engagement process in 2022-23.

Coming up in 2022-23:

Co-development of First Nations police services legislation:

• Spring 2022 Host virtual engagement sessions with First Nations, provinces and territories, police organizations and subject matter experts.
• Spring 2022 and ongoing – collaborate with the Assembly of First Nations, Provinces and Territories, modern treaty and self-governing agreement signatories, the First Nations Chiefs of Police Association, and the First Nations Police Governance Council through bilateral discussions to identify and advance policing priorities.
• Following completion of engagement process, PS and ISC, with the Assembly of First Nations and policing representatives, will assess timelines to begin co-development.

Engagement on Inuit and Métis policing and community safety priorities:

• Contribution agreements are in place to support Inuit and Métis organizations through engagement.
• Host virtual engagement sessions with Inuit and Métis organizations, rights-holders, provinces and territories.

National and Regional/community-based partners:

Participants in the engagement process for the co-development of First Nations police services legislation include:

First Nations organizations (ex. Assembly of First Nations, Women's/Youth/2SLGBTQQIA+ organizations, etc.), Modern Treaty and Self-Governing First Nations, individual First Nations, Provinces and Territories, First Nations Chiefs of Police Association, First Nations Police Governance Council, First Nations police services, and First Nations police governance bodies.

Participants in the engagement process on Inuit and Métis policing and community safety priorities

Provinces and Territories, Inuit and Métis organizations (Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami, Métis National Council, Pauktuutit Inuit Women of Canada, Les Femmes Michifs Otipemisiwak, etc.), and Inuit and Métis rights-holders.

The Federal Pathway reiterated the commitment to co-develop a legislative framework with First Nations organizations that recognizes First Nations policing as an essential service (Call for Justice 5.4). Recognizing First Nations police services as an essential service through legislation would underscore that these services are indispensable for community safety and security, and need to be adequately resourced to provide well-funded, culturally sensitive and respectful policing services to the First Nations communities they serve.

Planned for 2021-22:

The FFNIPP Federal-Provincial-Territorial Working Group (WG) will examine and approve new infrastructure projects to be implemented from 2021-2022 to 2026-27.

Update on 2021-22:

In June 2021 and January 2022, the FFNIPP Federal-Provincial-Territorial Working Group (WG) approved new infrastructure projects to be implemented from 2021-2022 to 2026-27. Currently, the Federal-Provincial-Territorial FFNIPP WG has recommended police facility projects which maximize the allocated funding for each FY until 2026-27. Types of projects approved include repairs and improvements to Band-owned police detachments. The program is fully subscribed until 2026-27.

Coming up in 2022-23:

In fiscal year 2022-2023, PS will continue to allocate funding for police infrastructure projects, as well as support a professional assessment of the building conditions of community owned police facilities.

National and Regional/community-based partners: Provinces and Territories, First Nations/Inuit policing organizations (First Nations Chiefs of Police Association, First Nations and Inuit Policing Program Stakeholder Panel), First Nations/Inuit communities, Modern Treaty and Self-Governing First Nations/Inuit groups (as relevant), the RCMP and First Nations/Inuit police services.

Funding for First Nations and Inuit policing facilities supports Call for Justice 5.5 through the provision of policing services which are professional, dedicated and responsive to the First Nations and Inuit communities they serve, including in northern and remote areas.

Planned for 2021-22:

• Summer/fall 2021: Inform provinces and territories of funding to support stabilization and expansion of the FNIPP and begin collaborative work to implement the stabilization investments by amending existing police service agreements.
• Winter 2021/2022: Develop national criteria and processes to inform funding recommendations for 2022-23.

Update on 2021-22:

Public Safety has begun preliminary work with the provinces and territories to first stabilize and then expand the FNIPP and to identify new police infrastructure projects.

Coming up in 2022-23:

Develop a national process to identify priorities to inform the nature and scope of each of the areas of investment with a view to stabilize the current agreement holders and to expand the program into new communities.

National and Regional/community-based partners: Provinces and Territories, First Nations/Inuit policing organizations (First Nations Chiefs of Police Association, First Nations and Inuit Policing Program Stakeholder Panel), First Nations/Inuit communities, Modern Treaty and Self-Governing First Nations/Inuit groups (as relevant), and First Nations/Inuit police services.

Through the FNIPP and the FNIPF, Public Safety supports the provision of policing services which are professional, dedicated and responsive to the First Nations and Inuit communities they serve, including in northern and remote areas. The Federal Pathway and Budget 2021 investments will further support these policing services to meet the safety and justice needs of the communities. This contributes directly to Calls for Justice 5.4 and 5.5.

Planned for 2021-22:

The Public Prosecution Service of Canada anticipates hiring 50% of prosecutors, administrators, Crown Witness Coordinators and paralegals in the three territories beginning in 2021-2022 as a way to improve the level of security, justice and support provided to Indigenous victims and their families, witnesses and communities experiencing violence.

Update on 2021-22:

The PPSC only received the funds mid-way through the fiscal year, which delayed the overall staffing strategy. Other issues, such as delays in obtaining security clearances, have also affected staffing processes. In particular, the hiring process for Crown Witness Coordinators (CWCs) in the Nunavut Regional Office has been delayed due to inadequate housing supply in Iqaluit. Despite these delays, the PPSC remains on track to hire the prosecutors, administrators, CWCs and paralegals in the three territories, as planned.

Coming up in 2022-23:

PPSC anticipates filling remaining FTE positions to improve its prosecutorial capacity.

National and Regional/community-based partners: Not applicable

As highlighted in the MMIWG report, as part of the criminal justice system, the PPSC is currently unable to provide the full extent and continuity of support victims and witnesses deserve throughout the court process. Building trust and clear communication are essential to prosecutions. The PPSC's increase in prosecutorial capacity will enable prosecution teams to spend as much time as necessary with victims and witnesses to establish trust and properly prepare them for the unfamiliar and traumatic court process. Although this approach is broadly linked to other Calls for Justice, it responds directly to Calls for Justice 1.5 and 5.12.

As requested through Call for Justice 9.2, recruitment efforts related to this initiative will focus on increasing Indigenous representation among the three northern regional offices, where possible.

Planned for 2021-22:

The Public Prosecution Service of Canada anticipates filling all four paralegal positions within one year of receiving funding.

Update on 2021-22:

The PPSC only received the funds mid-way through 2021-22, which delayed the overall staffing strategy. However, the PPSC will fill two to three of the paralegal positions with Inuit employees in newly created positions that will conduct prosecutions in Nunavut.

Coming up in 2022-23:

All four paralegal positions will be filled.

National partners: Pilimmaksaivik (Federal Centre of Excellence for Inuit Employment in Nunavut)

Regional and community-based partners: Maliiganik Tukisiiniakvik Legal Services (Nunavut Legal Aid) and the Nunavut Court of Justice

The importance of Inuit representation and the ability for PPSC employees in Nunavut to speak in Inuktut^{Footnote 1}, is highlighted in the 2018 Nunavut Inuit Labour Force Analysis. The creation of Inuktut-speaking Inuit paralegal positions in Nunavut assists the PPSC in responding to Call for Justice 5.12, as well as meeting obligations under Article 23 of the Nunavut Agreement. These positions also support the PPSC's initiative to increase Inuit representation within the Courts.

Planned for 2021-22:

The Public Prosecution Service of Canada anticipates securing the services of a consultant with expertise in Indigenous relations as early as December 2021 to develop and to pursue its engagement strategy.

Update on 2021-22:

The PPSC is currently seeking the professional services of a consultant to assist with formulating an engagement strategy with indigenous groups in the three territories.

While the necessary steps are undertaken to identify the consultant the PPSC will work with, important preliminary efforts have been made to prepare the organization to move forward with the engagement strategy:

• The PPSC is part of the Indigenous Justice Strategy committee led by Justice Canada, which will contribute to better understanding the context in which the PPSC will integrate its own engagement strategy and avoid duplication of effort and engagement fatigue.
• The PPSC has established a National Indigenous Employees Council that will support internal aspects of the engagement strategy; provide guidance on best ways to carry out the strategy; and, assist in the creation of relationships with communities when possible.
• The PPSC's NWT regional office created and filled a permanent general counsel position that has, among its top priorities, engaging with Indigenous communities to improve the PPSC's approach in supporting victims and witnesses of sexual offences.

Coming up in 2022-23:

The engagement strategy will take place in 2022-2023.

National and Regional/community-based partners: The Public Prosecution Service of Canada anticipates engaging with victims, witnesses, justice committees, local partners and Indigenous community leaders in the three territories.

In response to Calls for Justice 9.2 and 9.2ii, the PPSC will engage victims, Elders and community leaders of First Nations, Métis and Inuit communities currently served by the PPSC in Yukon, the Northwest Territories and Nunavut. A consultant with relevant Indigenous expertise will design an outreach and engagement strategy that will support the PPSC's goal to modify and expand upon the delivery of its responsibilities in a way that is accessible and responsive to First Nations, Métis and Inuit peoples across the three territories.

Planned for 2021-22:

As early as 2021-2022, The Public Prosecution Service of Canada will secure the services of at least one consultant with distinctions-based expertise to update the Inuit Justice curriculum and develop the First Nations and Métis curriculums.

Priority target groups will include regional offices in the three territories and prosecution teams across the country.

Update on 2021-22:

The PPSC is currently working on securing the services of an Indigenous-owned consulting firm to develop and deliver these particular training curriculums.

Nonetheless, in 2021-22, the PPSC began the delivery of a PPSC-specific training for prosecutors that focuses on equipping them to apply an intersectional lens to their prosecutorial work. This is an important stepping-stone to increasing prosecutors' ability to incorporate the lived experiences of individuals subjected to systemic discrimination and overrepresentation in the criminal justice system.

So far, 36% of prosecutors have completed this mandatory training, including: all Chief Federal Prosecutors and their deputies; the Director of Public Prosecutions and both Deputy Directors, all members from the PPSC's National Prosecution Policy Committee, as well as many prosecutors from across the country.

In addition, the PPSC is reviewing its Deskbook, which sets out the guiding principles that all federal prosecutors, and persons acting as federal prosecutors, must follow, to ensure that PPSC policies are not discriminatory and to provide a policy framework that allows prosecutors to exercise discretion in a manner that will, over time, reduce the over-representation of Indigenous persons in the criminal justice system.

Coming up in 2022-23:

Training delivery will continue in 2022-23 alongside the cultural competency training that will be developed and delivered by the consulting firm.

National and Regional/community-based partners: The Public Prosecution Service of Canada will use a distinctions-based approach for its engagement related to the renewal and development of Inuit, First Nations and Métis training. Identification of specific groups/organizations to be determined.

The overall objective of the review and expansion of the Inuit Justice Curriculum is to update and provide comprehensive information about the cultural, legal, and historical contexts involving Nunavut and the Inuit, including government actions that caused direct and vicarious trauma to Inuit. All members of the Nunavut regional office must take this training once they join the office; however, this will be expanded to regional offices across the country where there is an identified need to serve the Inuit community.

The development of new First Nations and a Métis training curriculums will provide all employees in the Yukon and Northwest Territories, as well as prosecution teams across the country, the opportunity to understand the social history, culture and traditions of the Indigenous communities in their respective region, and allow for better integration of distinctions-based considerations on individual files. Both curriculums will be designed with accessibility in mind. Each training curriculum will also include distinctions-based justice-related issues and an overview of the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls.

This approach directly supports Calls For Justice 10.1, 16.27, 17.8 and 17.29. It will minimize the traumatic impact on victims and witnesses from their involvement in the justice system, and enabling them to provide their evidence in an effective manner requires a greater understanding of the impact of their current, historical and intergenerational trauma. Improving the Inuit Justice training curriculum and developing training on Indigenous justice-related issues that reflect First Nations and Métis realities, will increase the prosecution teams' cultural competency. This will allow for better integration of distinctions-based considerations on individual files, encourage greater participation of Indigenous victims and witnesses in the court process resulting in greater restorative justice for the survivor, their family, the community and the accused.

Planned for 2021-22:

In 2021-2022, the Correctional Service of Canada will review existing resources related to service delivery requirements. This work may include the development of a preliminary business case to seek additional resources.

Update on 2021-22:

The review of resources at the CSC healing lodge is in its initial stages and has included the preliminary identification of gaps and needs. A more in-depth review will continue in 2022-2023.

Coming up in 2022-23:

Finalization and submission of business case, as applicable. Implement proposed enhancements, if approved, in collaboration with relevant sectors and stakeholders.

National and Regional/community-based partners: Okimaw Ohci Healing Lodge, in conjunction with the Nekaneet First Nation in Saskatchewan.

Through CSC's corporate priority, Effective, culturally appropriate interventions and reintegration support for First Nations, Métis and Inuit offenders, CSC strives to achieve improved results for Indigenous offenders. The review will address Calls for Justice 14.6 and 14.8 by enhancing capacity to address the needs of Indigenous women offenders through mental health, trauma and gender responsive interventions. A review of operational, mental health and personnel resources will ensure that the rehabilitative and reintegration needs of Indigenous women are appropriately addressed.

Planned for 2021-22:

Development of a complete project plan for consultation and future progress on the initiative to examine security assessment tools and procedures that are gender informed and culturally relevant for Indigenous Peoples.

Update on 2021-22:

CSC has embarked on a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the University of Regina to undertake the development of an Indigenous-informed risk assessment instrument(s). The MOU was signed in October of 2019 and is in place until October of 2024. A Service Exchange Agreement (SEA) is created each fiscal year to reflect the work on the project for that year.

Coming up in 2022-23:

The SEA for 2022-2023 is still in development. The project will continue this year with the eventual objective of having a report on the future of security assessment tools and processes that can be considered for implementation by CSC.

National partners: External academics in partnership with CSC.

Regional and community-based partners: Correctional Services Canada works directly with the independent researchers at the University of Regina as well as the Elders council to provide arm's length support as the project proceeds.

The initiative directly addresses Call for Justice 14.4 to evaluate, update, and develop security classification scales and tools that are sensitive to the nuances of Indigenous backgrounds and realities.

Planned for 2021-22:

The Royal Canadian Mounted Police will launch the following new online courseware for all employees in 2021, including:

• Uniting Against Racism Learning Series;
• Restorative Justice;
• Indigenous Learning Series; and,
• What's your perspective?

There will also be increased engagement with Indigenous communities to continue to inform the development of specific learning products tailored to the requirements of both the communities and the police.

Update on 2021-22:

The Royal Canadian Mounted Police has launched the following new online courseware for all employees in 2021, including:

• Uniting Against Racism Learning Series;
• Indigenous Learning Series; and,
• What's your perspective?

During 2021-2022, the RCMP's Learning and Development sector met with employees from Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami, Pauktuutit Inuit Women of Canada, and the Congress of Aboriginal Peoples. An invitation was extended for these organizations to provide feedback on key learning products such as Uniting Against Racism, and Cultural Awareness and Humility. Feedback from these communities will be received in 2022-2023, with a view to identify learning gaps to inform the Intercultural Learning Strategy.

Coming up in 2022-23:

Implementation of specific learning solutions tailored to the requirements of both the communities and the police, in support of the RCMP'S Intercultural Learning Strategy, will continue.

In 2022-2023, Learning and Development will seek to engage the Assembly of First Nations, Métis National Council, Native Women's Association of Canada, Women of the Métis Nation, and the National Association of Friendship Centres.

National and Regional/community-based partners: The Royal Canadian Mounted Police will engage internal and external partners and partners in the First Nations, Métis and Inuit communities.

The Cultural Awareness and Humility (CAH) training aims to provide an improved capacity across the RCMP to effectively respond to gender-based violence in a gender and culturally sensitive and trauma-informed manner.

In response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada's Call to Action #57, the RCMP is committed to providing Indigenous cultural competency training to RCMP employees throughout their careers. To enhance key competencies throughout the organization, the RCMP will:

• Develop and deliver new, division-specific, cultural competency training for RCMP officers;
• Update its broader national cultural competency training, informed by Indigenous women and other experts; and
• Use GBA Plus as a tool to examine existing training, in order to ensure it is gender- and culturally-sensitive.

Planned for 2021-22:

Through a whole-of-government approach, the Secretariat will focus its work on fulfilling its commitment to provide a fuller portrait of initiatives moving forward under the Federal Pathway, as well as focus on working with partners to confirm the way forward. In addition, the Secretariat will launch its new programs and advisory bodies, as well as work on producing usable metrics to measure progress through the Horizontal Initiative on MMIWG and 2SLGBTQQIA+ People, as well as within the context of the Annual Progress Report.

Update on 2021-22:

• In 2021-22, the Secretariat became a permanently established unit within CIRNAC. The Secretariat is responsible for the coordination and development of the Horizontal Initiative Results Framework on the delivery of the Federal Pathway and the Federal Pathway Annual Progress Reports.
• 2 new programs were successfully launched by the Secretariat in 2021 and budgets were fully expended: the Support for the Well-being of Families and Survivors program, and the Indigenous-led Data Research Project program.
• 3 Indigenous partner organizations received Engagement funding support and 9 Indigenous organizations received funding for Working Groups in 2021-22.
• The Secretariat also supported the continued operation of the National Families and Survivors Circle throughout the 2021-22 fiscal year.
• The Secretariat served as liaison and maintained regular contact with all National Action Plan partners (Indigenous, Provincial, Territorial) and also serves as communications centre on matters related to missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLBGTQQIA+ people.

Coming up in 2022-23:

The Secretariat will work with Indigenous partners, provinces and territories toward the continued implementation of the Federal Pathway and National Action Plan, as well as produce its second Annual Progress Report. It will continue to support new programs launched under B2021 funding as well as work with partners to determine new or emerging priorities.

National and Regional/community-based partners:

• Families and Survivors of missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people;
• Indigenous women and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people's organizations;
• National and Regional Indigenous Organizations;
• Municipalities, Provinces and Territories;
• Federal departments and agencies.

As a unit of the lead department for the Government of Canada's response to the MMIWG National Inquiry report, the MMIWG Secretariat held a coordinating role in the development and of the National Action Plan and Federal Pathway, in response to Call for Justice 1.1. The MMIWG Secretariat is also responsible for the annual production and release of the Federal Pathway Progress Reports.

The MMIWG Secretariat, by way of its production of the Federal Pathway annual report and co-development of the National Action Plan annual report, helps support accountability, in response to Call for Justice 15.8, by tracking, compiling and sharing with Indigenous partners and the Canadian public as a whole regular progress updates on commitments made -or lack thereof- by way of these annual reports. In addition, the Secretariat's ongoing discussions and regular update meetings with federal, provincial and territorial partners further assists in maintaining focus on the Calls for Justice as ongoing priorities for all governments, and the necessity for these governments to meaningfully follow-through with dedicated and measurable actions and commitments.

Planned for 2021-22:

• July 2021 to August 2021: The Indigenous Women's Relations Unit ( IRLU) responsible for the delivery of this program will confirm funding, then design and develop the new strategic approach to funding grassroots Indigenous women's and 2SLGBTQQIA+ organizations, environmental scan of organizations, assessment of funding gaps, and representative gaps
• August-September 2021: IRLU will enter into discussions with organizations already in receipt of funding to receive proposals and explore opportunities to amend their agreement (considerations include longer-term agreements and additional funding)
• October-November 2021: IRLU will begin targeted outreach to new grassroots organizations calling for proposals
• January-February 2022: Drafting of new agreements
• February-March 2022: Implementation of performance management framework, collection of data, analysis and preparation of annual internal report.

Update on 2021-22:

• Seven organizations were approved (3 national and 4 regional) for funding through multi-year agreements beginning in 2021-22.
• 16 organizations have been approved for funding beginning in fiscal year 2022-23.
• Overall, the 2021-22 Call for Proposals resulted in 20 project funding agreements with 4 national organizations, 13 regional and community-level Indigenous women's organizations and 3 2SLGBTQQIA+ organizations.
• Of the total 20 funded, 12 are new organizations that have not received funding through this program previously.

Coming up in 2022-23:

• The Indigenous Women's Relations Unit will continue relationship building and identify new project or funding opportunities for a targeted call for proposals.
• IRLU will conduct an annual review of the relationships and funding agreements with recipients.
• Preparation of mid-program analysis and internal report preparation and design of Year 5 program review process.

National and Regional/community-based partners: The partners are national, regional and local Indigenous women's and 2SLGBTQQIA+ organizations.

An environmental scan will be done in collaboration with Indigenous partners, Other government departments and Provincial and Territorials governments to ensure the engagement of a comprehensive group of organizations.

The Supporting Indigenous Women's and 2SLGBTQQIA+ Organizations program in part responds to Call for Justice 1.8, which calls upon governments to support national, regional, and local Indigenous women's and 2SLGBTQQIA+ organizations. Providing Indigenous women's and 2SLGBTQQIA+ organizations stable funding to increase policy capacity advances grassroots voices and priorities and supports meaningful change amongst all levels of government.

This initiative also supports Calls for Miskotahâ 7 and 8 of through the provision of funding for the implementation of the Canada-Les Femmes Michif Otipemisiwak Declaration that sets out a framework for co-development and collaboration on advancing shared Métis women priorities. Many priorities are specifically targeting the identification and elimination of socioeconomic barriers and gaps. Culturally-competent GBA Plus funding to LFMO will support and advance the implementation for the Métis specific Gender-Based Analysis Plus to all levels of government in enabling greater capacity by LFMO to advise on application.

In 2021-22, the initiative aimed to develop the program guidelines and Call for Proposals, as well as launch and fund the first data projects.

The ILDRPP program launched on August 12, 2021. The 1st Call for Proposals closing on October 31, 2021, resulted in the funding of 19 new data research projects across the country, inclusive of all distinctions.

For 2022-23, a new Call for Proposals will support new projects.

The National Indigenous Data Advisory Group on MMIWG2S+ was not launched in 2021-22. Work is underway to launch in early 2022-23.

In early 2022-23, the inaugural membership for the National Indigenous Data Advisory Group on MMIWG2S+ will be finalized with Indigenous partners to ensure a diverse representation of voices and perspectives. Once launched, it will be asked to provide advice on various projects underway, as well as on the inclusion of key metrics in the next Annual Progress Report. In addition, members will participate in the evaluation of the next Indigenous-Led Data Research Projects Program intake.

The group is expected to convene for the first time in fall 2022.

In 2021-22, the initiative aimed to:

Justice Canada:

• Develop draft research plan for 2022/23 to 2024/25 research activities by March 31, 2022
• Develop draft documents for Request for Standing Offer for quantitative research and data science services by March 31, 2022

Statistics Canada:

• Launch a Federal/Provincial/Territorial Working Group on National Indicators of Overrepresentation in the Criminal Justice System.

To date, Justice Canada has reached all of its projected 2021/22 milestones, including the draft research plan, draft documents, and participating in the launch of the FPT Working Group on National Indicators of Overrepresentation in the Criminal Justice System. It has also engaged on research plans with 12 federal departments as well as FPT Liaison Officer's Committee under the National Justice Statistics Initiative. This includes collaborating with Statistics Canada on several research proposals, with implementation to begin in 2022-23.

To date, Statistics Canada has reached all of its project milestones for 2021-22. In January 2022, the Federal/Provincial/Territorial Working Group on National Indicators of Overrepresentation in the Criminal Justice System was launched and began work on identifying indicators of over-representation for the areas of policing, courts, corrections, including a focus on indicators for youth across all systems. The development of the framework will leverage indicators from existing frameworks and recommendations.

In 2022-23, the departments will undertake the following actions:

Justice Canada:

• Launch Request for Standing Offer for quantitative research and data sciences services
• Establish letters of agreement / memoranda of understanding with federal partners
• Establish contract(s) with private sector

Statistics Canada:

In collaboration with the Statistics Canada's Centre for Indigenous Statistics and Partnerships and their partners:

• Produce an analytical article examining the overrepresentation of Indigenous people in corrections
• Link Integrated Criminal Courts Survey data to Census 2021 data, and conduct analysis of linked data to examine overrepresentation of Indigenous and racialized populations in criminal courts, in preparation of 2023/24 of analytical report communicating findings
• Create a draft framework of indicators required to measure overrepresentation in the criminal justice system

In 2021-22, the initiative aimed to:

• Confirm the source of funding for the work to proceed and staff the project lead and analyst positions
• Complete draft literature review
• Secure support of the Canadian Association of Chiefs of Police (CACP) via the Policing with Indigenous Peoples Committee to pursue the project
• Create a project plan for roll out for 2022-23
• Begin the strategic engagement plan
• Begin the engagement document

To date, the initiative has reached all milestones. Staffing occurred in the latter half of the year, with the lead beginning in December 2021. Over January and March 2022, Statistics Canada engaged with the CACP Policing with Indigenous Peoples Committee to establish collaboration. First drafts of the literature review, strategic engagement plan and the engagement document were completed.

In 2022-23, Statistics Canada in collaboration with the CACP, will launch the engagements to discuss and develop:

• Recommendations on national data standards;
• Recommendations regarding amendments to police systems, processes and protocols;
• Recommendations on the establishment of a national database on missing persons.

The engagements will build upon existing literature and will seek feedback from police services, representatives of families and survivors, communities non-governmental organizations, experts and government bodies.

In 2021-22, this initiative aimed to launch the engagements and draft initial recommendations.

To date, the initiative reached its milestones. As a first step to developing recommendations on this potential data collection, Statistics Canada completed the engagement document and launched the engagement process in July 2021. The process was to seek feedback on the collection of Indigenous and racialized identity data through the Uniform Crime Reporting Survey. Specifically, it sought advice on the value of collecting this sensitive information, how the police should collect and report the data, what information should be reported by the police, and how the data should be used and accessed. Invitations to provided feedback were sent to hundreds of community organizations, academics, police services, and other parties of interest. The engagement was also posted on the Statistics Canada website for response from the general public.

Written feedback and responses from virtual roundtables were received by January 2022 and analysis of these began in February. A 'What We Heard' report is in preparation on this national process engagement with indigenous and racialized partners, communities and organizations.

• Finalize the draft of 'What we heard' and initial recommendations. Further refine them to inform implementation (Spring/summer 2022).
• Public release of draft recommendations Fall 2022 for final feedback.
• Final recommendations published end of fiscal 2022-23.

In April and May of 2021, a series of five analytical reports were released, focusing on intimate partner violence for vulnerable populations, which include data and insights on Indigenous women:

• Intimate partner violence in Canada, 2018: An overview, released April 26, 2021
• Intimate partner violence: Experiences of Indigenous First Nations, Métis and Inuit women in Canada, 2018, released May 19, 2021
• Intimate partner violence: Experiences of women with disabilities in Canada, 2018, released April 26, 2021
• Intimate partner violence: Experiences of sexual minority women in Canada, 2018, released April 26, 2021
• Intimate partner violence: Experiences of young women in Canada, 2018, released May 19, 2021

Two additional WAGE-funded articles were produced by Statistics Canada and released in spring 2022:

• Violent victimization and perceptions of safety: Experiences of First Nations, Métis and Inuit women in Canada
• Women's experiences of victimization in Canada's remote communities: Highlights

Also as part of the federal Gender-based Violence Strategy, in the 2021-22 fiscal year, Statistics Canada and WAGE developed a project plan for the second cycle of the SSPPS, which is a key means of collecting data on GBV in Canada. First implemented in 2018, the main objective of the survey is to measure the prevalence and nature of various forms of GBV, as well as characteristics of individuals who experience and perpetrate these behaviours.

Consultations on cycle 2 of the Survey of Safety in Public and Private Spaces (SSPPS) will take place in 2022-23.

Three related WAGE-funded research projects currently underway will also be completed in 2022-23. An overview of results will be available on WAGE's website. These projects focus on gender-based violence (GBV) and Indigenous communities, and focus respectively on urban service delivery in Ontario, the criminal justice system response in Inuit Nunangat, and using Indigenous Ways of Knowing for GBV prevention in British Columbia.