2022-23 Federal Pathway Annual Progress Report

Reclaiming Power and Place: Advancing Accountability and Accelerating Progress
Reporting on the Calls for Justice
Culture
- Restoring and Revitalizing Indigenous Languages and Cultures
- Culture initiatives
Health and Wellness
- Improving the Spiritual, Physical, and Mental Health of Indigenous Women, Girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ People
- Health and Wellness Initiatives
Human Safety and Security
- Improving the Physical, Social, and Economic Safety of Indigenous Women, Girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ People
- Human Safety and Security Initiatives
Justice
- Improving Access to Justice
- Justice Initiatives
Organizational Capacity and Coordination
- Increasing the Organizational Capacity and Coordination of Indigenous Organizations
- Organizational Capacity and Coordination Initiatives
Working Together to Monitor Progress
The Path Forward: Budget 2023
Conclusion

Reclaiming Power and Place: Advancing Accountability and Accelerating Progress

The 2019 National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls' final report Reclaiming Power and Place documents the complex and interconnected causes of ongoing systemic violence that targets Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people. Centuries of colonialism, racism, and sexism have devalued Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people's sacred and important roles in their families, communities, and society at large. In sharing their truths during the Inquiry, Indigenous women, girls, 2SLGBTQI+ people, families, and survivors outlined the path forward to reclaim their rightful power and place. Five years after the release of the Inquiry's final report, implementing its Calls for Justice and the Calls for Miskotahâ in Métis Perspectives of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and LGBTQ2S+ People, remain a significant and urgent priority for the Government of Canada.

Importantly, the federal government's efforts to accelerate progress on the Calls for Justice continue to be guided by Indigenous women, girls, 2SLGBTQI+ people, families, and survivors. This progress would not be possible without their undeterred commitment to advocacy and strength. For the families and survivors of Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people who have gone missing or have been murdered: your Calls for Justice are the foundation of our work. The Government of Canada honours your truths and commits to redress violence through immediate and sustained action in key areas such as safety, security, justice, violence prevention, health, and wellness. Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people must be able to not only reclaim but advance and amplify their place and power so that wherever they reside, they are safe, secure, and live a life free from violence.

The Federal Pathway to Address Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and 2SLGBTQI+ People (Federal Pathway) outlines the federal government's plan to implement its portion of the goals set forth in the National Action Plan and advance progress on the Calls for Justice and the Calls for Miskotahâ. Initiatives included in the Federal Pathway are supported by 20 federal government departments and agencies and are organized into five interconnected thematic areas: culture, health and wellness, human safety and security, justice, and capacity building and coordination. To advance these themes, six departments have taken leadership roles: Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada, Indigenous Services Canada, the Department of Justice, Public Safety, Women and Gender Equality, and Canadian Heritage. Each of these federal departments support specific programs under Federal Pathway with the goal of advancing progress on corresponding Calls for Justice and Calls for Miskotahâ. The Calls for Justice and Calls for Miskotahâ covered in the Federal Pathway are either within the direct accountability of the federal government or require a contribution from the federal government. Although Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada funds several programs throughout the Federal Pathway, its primary role is coordinating and convening other federal initiatives in the Annual Progress Report and measure progress through the Horizontal Initiative.

This second Federal Pathway Annual Progress Report is an account of work completed by the federal government during the 2022-23 fiscal year (April 1, 2022, to March 31, 2023) on its commitments made in the Federal Pathway. This report highlights key initiatives and programs that are broadly categorized in three main areas, all of which work towards the ultimate goal of reducing violence against Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people: 1) immediate action to support safety, including the wellbeing of families and survivors; 2) transformational institutional and systemic change through recognition and respect for the rights of Indigenous Peoples; 3) increase accountability and transparency to build better relationships with Indigenous partners, families, and survivors. Some actions related to missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people cut across these themes, such as support for families and survivors, or the need for increased transparency and accountability. Further in the report, details are provided on all Federal Pathway initiatives organized into five themes: Culture, Health and Wellness, Human Safety and Security, Justice, and Capacity Building and Coordination. The report concludes with information on efforts to improve the quality of data and a look ahead to initiatives funded by Budget 2023.

In 2022-23, the federal government made progress on several Federal Pathway commitments through new and ongoing investments that contribute to the immediate and continued safety of Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people, while also advancing long-term systemic and institutional changes that help address the root causes of violence and promote and protect the rights of Indigenous Peoples. Notably, this year the federal government focused on advancing two critical Calls for Justice on oversight and accountability, 1.10 and 1.7 respectively, and hosting the first Federal-Provincial-Territorial-Indigenous roundtable on MMIWG2S+, as a direct response to the priorities set forth by key partners, including the National Family and Survivors Circle. The federal government acknowledges that building better relationships with Indigenous women, girls, 2SLGTBQI+ people, families, and survivors is complex and takes time, and increased accountability and transparency on progress to date and continuing to center their priorities, are important steps.

All levels of government have a responsibility to prioritize and center the truth, views, and perspectives of families, survivors, Indigenous women, girls, 2SLGBTQI+ people, Indigenous organizations, and communities in their work to address MMIWG2S+. For the federal government, this entails sustained and meaningful engagement in the development, implementation, and evaluation of policy, programs, and legislation.

To fulfill its commitments in the Federal Pathway, the federal government does the following:

Work in partnership and build trust with Indigenous partners, families, survivors, and all federal departments to advance the Calls for Justice, Calls for Miskotahâ, and the National Action Plan goals;
Engage with Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people to advance the implementation of the Calls for Justice and Calls for Miskotahâ by listening and applying their knowledge, views, and concerns in the federal government's work;
Invest in policies and programs to carry out the work needed to address violence against Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people.

In implementing the Calls for Justice, the federal government acknowledges its responsibility to engage with Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people, with a specific focus on families and survivors. The federal government is committed to ensuring that Indigenous families, survivors, women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people's leadership is reflected at decision-making tables on issues that impact them, their families, and communities. Although the federal government does provide programs and services, and works in cooperation with provinces and territorial governments, its approach to addressing MMIWG2S+ includes directly funding Indigenous organizations and communities that work to prevent violence against Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people. There is no substitute for the lived experience of families and survivors, grassroots organizations, and service providers; they are the subject-matter experts of MMIWG2S+. For this reason, the federal government provides ongoing funding and support to grassroots organizations, groups, and service providers, as they are well positioned to ensure that initiatives are felt on the ground by Indigenous women, girls, 2SLGBTQI+ people, families, and survivors of violence.

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Immediate Action to Support the Safety of Indigenous Women, Girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ People, Including Families and Survivors

The Government of Canada recognizes that, in addition to long-term systemic changes, urgent action is required to address and prevent violence against Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people and that families and survivors need access to culturally relevant supports. In 2022-23, new and ongoing investments have been made to key initiatives that prevent and respond to violence through law enforcement, transportation and infrastructure, and support for the wellbeing of families and survivors. Importantly, these investments work towards advancing several Calls for Justice and National Action Plan goals, all of which directly contribute to the immediate safety of Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people.

Highlights of this work in 2022-23 include:

Public Safety's Aboriginal Planning Initiative supported 30 communities to develop a Community Safety Plans, seven were completed and 23 will be completed in 2023-24.
An additional $20 million invested in the Pathways to Safe Indigenous Communities initiative, managed by Indigenous Services Canada, to continue to provide Indigenous-led solutions to community safety
Selection of 22 new projects through the Indigenous Shelter and Transitional Housing Initiative, funded by Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation, which represents over $81M in capital funding and $15M in ongoing operational support and will result in building 178 units by 2026. $3.5M was advanced for the construction of three projects.
Commitment of $300 million to advance engagement for an Urban, Rural and Northern Indigenous Housing Strategy through the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation and Indigenous Services Canada. Access to safe and affordable housing is critical to improving health and social outcomes and to ensuring a better future for Indigenous communities and children.
$3,069,394 allocated to develop 13 new programs to support the wellbeing of families and survivors through Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada Support for the Wellbeing of Families and Survivors Initiative
Funding provided through the Distinctions-Based Housing Support initiative supported four Inuit land claim organizations to construct 500 new housing units, and funded the Métis Nation Governing Members and the Manitoba Métis Federation to purchase, build, or renovate approximately 4,300 units and provide financial assistance to a further 9,500 households.

Preventing Violence and Responding to Safety

Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people are disproportionately overrepresented as victims of violence, yet many witnesses to the National Inquiry spoke to the lack of appropriate and adequate law enforcement responses to this violence.^{Footnote 1} Indeed, the National Inquiry found that police are both a cause of violence and a first response to individuals experiencing violence, with "a number of policing representatives [offering] apologies and acknowledgement of past wrongdoings in police treatment and relationships with Indigenous Peoples".^{Footnote 2} This harm has resulted in Indigenous women having significantly less confidence in police compared to non-Indigenous women.^{Footnote 3} As identified in Calls for Justice 5.4, 5.5, and 5.6, law enforcement agencies have a key role to play in violence prevention and the response to MMIWG2S+. There is considerable work to do to build trust and repair the law enforcement's relationships with Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people. In response to Call for Justice 5.4 and 5.5, Public Safety has continued to invest in First Nations and Inuit Policing. The goal of this program is to provide professional, dedicated, and culturally responsive policing to First Nations and Inuit communities, which supports police to respond to and investigate violence against Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people.

Similarly, in 2022-23 the Aboriginal Community Safety Planning Initiative, led by Public Safety continued to work directly with Indigenous communities to prevent incidents of missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people through the development of Indigenous-led Community Safety Plans (CSPs). This initiative works to support Calls for Justice 3.4 and 3.5 which call upon all governments to ensure that Indigenous communities have adequate and culturally appropriate immediate safety responses. The Initiative also supports Calls for Justice 5.5iv through community-led initiatives that address community needs. Each CSP is developed through a strengths-based approach led by community members, community leadership, local service providers, and other partners identified by the community. This year, the Aboriginal Community Safety Planning initiative supported 30 Indigenous communities to develop a CSP, seven were completed and 23 will be completed in 2023-24, and entered into 12 Contribution Agreements to support implementation of components of their Plans.

The Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation in British Columbia developed a CSP in January 2023 that is "Addressing Violence and Abuse of Women, Children, Men and Elders" through trauma-informed training and intergenerational community interventions in community, personal safety planning, and a number of educational workshops and campaigns.

Under the National Crime Prevention Strategy, Public Safety also continued to work with 7 Indigenous communities on the development of crime prevention interventions, some of which will be addressing concerns identified from the creation of Community Safety Plans. The Department will seek to develop more of these community-driven interventions in 2023-24, with an addition $4M. 20 additional projects were under development from the Crime Prevention Action Fund, following a Call for Proposals held in 2021. Many of these projects will begin delivering their intervention in 2023-24. In May 2022, the Indigenous Community Corrections Initiative (ICCI), received policy authority to be administered on an ongoing basis. The ICCI is an existing contribution agreement program which supports alternatives to incarceration projects and reintegration projects of Indigenous offenders. Both ICCI and ACSPI are managed under the Aboriginal Community Safety Development Contribution Program (ACSDCP)'s Terms and Conditions. A national Call for Applicants was launched on March 21, 2023, and is open until June 12, 2023. ICCI addresses Call for Justice 14.6 by supporting targeted proposals (e.g., Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+) that respond to underlying causes of offending, including mental health, addictions, and trauma services, as part of the reintegration process and Call for Justice 14.8 by supporting the development and implementation of Indigenous community-led projects that respond to the unique needs and circumstances of justice-involved Indigenous people, including women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people.

Importantly, in 2022-23 the Government of Canada continued to support distinctions-based and Indigenous-led solutions for safety. The Pathways to Safe Indigenous Communities Initiative, managed by Indigenous Services Canada, provides funding to First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities and partners (on- and off-reserve) to implement Indigenous designed programs, interventions, and services that improve community safety and wellbeing. In 2022-2023, the Pathways Initiative provided $23.6 million to support 58 Indigenous community safety and wellbeing projects across Canada. In November 2022, an additional $20 million was announced for the Pathways to Safe Indigenous Communities Initiative to increase the number of projects supported.

Although progress has been made in 2022-23 to advance the Calls for Justice and National Action Plan goals related to violence prevention, the Government of Canada acknowledges that immediate and sustained efforts are also needed to combat human trafficking, which is strongly linked to violence against Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people.^{Footnote 4} Through Public Safety's National Strategy to Combat Human Trafficking, the Government of Canada has created a whole-of-government strategy to provide culturally relevant support services for Indigenous survivors of human trafficking and promote culturally sensitive training and awareness initiatives. For example, under the National Strategy, Public Safety Canada is investing in 17 community-based projects which serve Indigenous people, including two that are Indigenous-led. The seven Principles for Change as enunciated in the Final Report of the Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and the need to incorporate partnership and dialogue with Indigenous people, remains central.

Recognizing that past child welfare policies and practices contributed to intergenerational trauma, Indigenous Service Canada has been working with Indigenous partners to reform Indigenous child and family services, through both the Program and the Act respecting First Nations, Inuit and Métis child, youth and families. The reform work focusses on preventing children from coming into contact with the child protection system; and supports addressing the individual factors that contribute to child vulnerability, particularly from maltreatment and being in out-of-home care; and how these factors affect child wellbeing and later adult outcomes, including all forms of exploitation.

In January, 2022, Canada announced that Agreements-in-Principle had been reached pertaining to child and family services: one to provide compensation for children and families who suffered harms and other to bring long-term reform to the Child and Family Services Program. On April 1, 2022 Canada began implementing enhancements to the Child and Family Services program. The enhancements include: funding for post-majority support services to First Nation youth formerly in care up to their twenty-sixth birthday, aiming to support the safety and well-being of these First Nation youth, enable connection and active engagement in their communities, language and culture, and reduce incidences of negative outcomes; funding for First Nations representative services; and increased funding for prevention services that are evidence-informed and culturally-appropriate, address identified risk factors, and build protective factors within families and communities.

Addressing violence against Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people requires immediate improvements to violence prevention initiatives, community safety programs, child and family services, and policing. Through their initiatives in the Federal Pathway, Public Safety and Indigenous Services Canada have led the federal government's work on short-term violence prevention. In 2022-23, these departments accelerated their work to develop community safety plans, fund Indigenous-led safety programs, and supported self-determined Indigenous police services across the country. This work will continue in the upcoming fiscal year as the federal government works to implement deliverables that improve immediate-term safety for Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people.

Increasing Housing Security

As identified in the National Inquiry, housing insecurity significantly impacts Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people's safety and increases their vulnerability to violence.^{Footnote 5} Indeed, adequate and affordable housing is directly linked to the health, wellbeing, and physical safety of Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people. This issue is compounded by the overwhelming rates of violence Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people experience because of homelessness.^{Footnote 6}

The urgent need for solutions to address housing and homelessness is reflected in the Calls for Justice and the National Action Plan, both of which identify the immediate safety risk that housing insecurity poses to Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people. Access to adequate housing directly supports Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people's immediate physical and emotional safety.

Calls for Justice 4.1, 4.6, 4.7, 12.4, 16.1, 16.18, 16.19, and 18.2 call upon all governments to support the establishment and long-term sustainable funding of Indigenous-led low-barrier shelters, safe spaces, transition homes, second stage housing, and housing services for Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people. This sentiment was echoed in the National Action Plan's third goal that advocates for the delivery of Indigenous-led and grassroots programs, including support for the construction of shelters and second-stage transition housing.

To advance these Calls for Justice and the third National Action Plan goal, Indigenous Services Canada and the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation are funding the Comprehensive Violence Prevention Strategy with $724.1 million to support 38 new shelters and 50 transition homes specifically for Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people who are experiencing gender-based violence, as well as enhancing culturally relevant violence prevention activities. The Indigenous Shelter and Transitional Housing Initiative was launched in November 2021, and in 2022-23, 22 new projects were selected, which will result in 178 units. Further, $3.5 million was advanced for the construction of three projects such as the recent transitional housing project called Ne'ata'q Place, located in Stephenville NL. This is due to be completed in spring of 2024 and the shelter will provide seven units for women and their children escaping gender based violence.

In recognition of the Call for Justice 4.7 CMHC and ISC are ensuring, "that shelters, transitional housing, second-stage housing, and services are appropriate to cultural needs." and are taking notice of the need for solutions that "must come with real partnerships with Indigenous Peoples that support self-determination, in a decolonizing way."^{Footnote 7} Therefore, the selection of projects is led by an Inuit committee for Inuit-specific shelters as well as an Indigenous committee for First Nations, Métis, Urban Indigenous and 2SLGBTQI+ specific shelters. This direction and engagement directly responds to the National Action Plan's third goal which advocates for the delivery of Indigenous-led and grassroots programs. The committees have been key to ensuring projects are distinctions based, and funded in a way that meets people's wants and needs in a relevant, culturally appropriate way. Indigenous Committees led the development of the evaluation process, provided overall direction and prioritization, and reviewed and scored proposals for funding.

In response to the immediate need for housing, Indigenous Services Canada and Crown Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs are delivering distinctions-based housing supports through the Indigenous Community Infrastructure Fund through Budget 2021 as well as through Budget 2022. Both initiatives have committed more than $4 billion in distinctions-based funding to First Nations, Inuit, Métis, Self-Governing First Nations, and Urban Indigenous communities throughout Canada to invest in housing. For example, in 2022-23, through its Urban Programming for Indigenous Peoples, Indigenous Services Canada supported two minor and 17 major infrastructure projects for a total of $100.4 million distributed.

Additionally, the Government of Canada is providing $200,000 a year over three years to the Dene Nation to create a Housing and Infrastructure Secretariat that will support and coordinate housing-related initiatives benefiting Dene peoples. This pilot project will allow Dene communities to propose solutions that reflect their unique needs, secure federal housing funding, and support the Dene Nation Strategic Housing Plan.

The National Housing Strategy (NHS), funded by Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation, offers a comprehensive suite of initiatives to meet the housing needs of Canadians. Meeting the housing needs of Indigenous communities is a priority under the Strategy which also recognizes that women and their children are disproportionately impacted by housing needs and experience specific barriers to housing related to the intersections of identities such as race, sexual orientation, age and socio-economic status. To address the persistent housing gaps experienced by women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people, the federal government aims to put 33% of the strategy's investments, with a minimum of 25%, towards serving the unique needs of women and their children. As of December 31, 2022, the NHS overall has committed an estimated $10.1 billion towards targeting and supporting the housing needs of women and their children, which includes funding for the construction, repair and support of 263,194 housing units.

Beyond housing and shelter initiatives, in 2022-23 the Government of Canada continued to invest in initiatives that focus on homelessness and violence against Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people. Recognizing the overrepresentation of Indigenous Peoples among those experiencing homelessness, Infrastructure Canada has ensured that Reaching Home: Canada's Homelessness Strategy has a significant focus on Indigenous homelessness. This Strategy responds to Calls for Justice 4.1, 4.7, 12.4, 16.1, 16.18, 16.19, 18.25. Since its launch in 2019, this strategy has funded Indigenous-led and culturally relevant programs to address the unique needs of Indigenous Peoples experiencing or at risk of experiencing homelessness. Some of these programs focus on the immediate safety needs of Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people experiencing family violence.

The Lu'ma Native BCH Housing Society offers holistic healing with 18-month accommodation for women and children who have suffered domestic violence and have already experienced the initial intervention stage. The program has also helped these women in finding permanent housing to restore order in their lives, focus on their work, and recover from trauma and addictions.

Infrastructure Canada also hosted the Indigenous Homelessness Forum in 2022-23 and partnered with the National Indigenous Homelessness Council, National Indigenous organizations, and Modern Treaty Holders to ensure a distinctions-based lens was applied to this work. In the upcoming fiscal year, two further Indigenous Homelessness Forums will take place and Infrastructure Canada will launch a First Nations distinctions-based funding delivery model.

Considerable progress has been made in 2022-23 to improve the physical safety of Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people through the planning, development, and construction of new housing and shelters. Investments in affordable housing, shelters, transitional housing, and community-led programming have worked to improve the immediate housing needs of Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people. Importantly, these initiatives will continue to use an Indigenous-led approach in their design and operation to ensure that shelters, housing, and services are appropriate to Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people's cultural needs. These investments, totaling several billion dollars, will continue to flow in 2023-24 as the federal government renews its commitment, as demonstrated in Budget 2023, to addressing the housing needs of Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people and ultimately reduce the violence they experience.

Advancements to Transportation and Infrastructure

Access to transportation and infrastructure are essential services that can prevent violence against Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people. Indeed, Calls for Justice 4.8 and 17.9 call upon all governments to provide affordable transit, transportation services, and infrastructure for Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people living in remote or rural communities. In 2022-23, the Government of Canada invested in transportation and infrastructure by funding Indigenous-led projects and supporting their construction.

Transport Canada continues to fund the Remote Rail Passenger Program, providing access to transportation for Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people. Through this program, Keewatin Rail Company and Tshiuetin Rail Transportation have received funding to cover operating costs for their services between Sept-Iles and Schefferville in Quebec, and The Pas and Pukatawagan in Manitoba. These Indigenous-owned rail lines continued to receive funding in 2022-23 that will remain ongoing in the upcoming fiscal year. Currently, there is no access to public transportation in either region, posing a significant safety risk to Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people in those areas.

Similarly, Infrastructure Canada is leading the Rural Transit Solutions Fund, which will significantly improve transportation options for people living in rural, remote, Northern, and Indigenous communities. Acknowledging the acute transport needs of Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people, Infrastructure Canada will ensure that a minimum of 10% of all funding will be allocated to Indigenous-led projects.

Improvements to infrastructure are also being advanced through the Indigenous Community Infrastructure Fund, with funding provided through Indigenous Services Canada and Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada. This initiative provides $4.3 billion for distinctions-based support to Indigenous communities for various infrastructure needs. Through this fund, communities will be able to construct water and wastewater facilities, school facilities, health facilities, advance the transfer of service delivery and more. As of December 31, 2022, 62 Indigenous Services Canada projects supported by ICIF funding had been completed in 2022-2023, with an additional 786 projects ongoing. Final figures related to the number of projects supported in 2022-23 will be available in summer 2023, due to the reporting timelines of First Nation communities. The programs funded through this initiative include delivery of water and wastewater services, housing projects, and health and school facilities. Examples of specific projects funded under these programs and completed in 2022-2023 include upgrades to a water treatment plant in Waterhen First Nation, Saskatchewan, renovations to the Teueikan Elementary and Secondary School in the community of Ekuanitshit in Quebec, and housing projects including new constructions, renovations, lot servicing, and governance and capacity initiatives in Alberta, the Atlantic region, Manitoba, British Columbia and Quebec.

The Pathways to Safe Indigenous Communities Initiative is continuing to fund the Yukon Aboriginal Women's Council multi-year plan to support safe and accessible transportation through the development of a taxi program. The overall goal of the taxi-program is to reduce gender-based violence for Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people who require transportation. Phase one of the project is well underway and includes advocacy, the assessment of options, and providing transportation assistance and education. In 2023-24, the taxi program will enter into Phase two to develop and implement a pilot project and conduct a program evaluation.

Beyond access and improvements in transportation and physical infrastructure, access to the internet has a key role in Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQIl+ people's safety that requires immediate and long-term investments to improve internet infrastructure. Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people require reliable internet services to access government websites, services, and programming. This issue is particularly relevant to Inuit and other Indigenous Peoples living in remote and Northern communities, as discussed in Calls for Justice 5.5 (i) and 16.5. Lack of access to reliable internet is an immediate safety concern, as many resources for victims of violence are online and connectivity can provide safety for Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people in moments of acute danger.

In response, Innovation, Science and Economic Development is coordinating the Universal Broadband Fund, which is helping to support Canada's target of providing high-speed Internet access to 100% of households across the country, including Indigenous Peoples living in rural and remote areas by 2030. In 2022-23, the Universal Broadband Fund announced projects that will bring high-speed Internet to nearly 7,300 Indigenous households. Innovation, Science and Economic Development also previously announced $4.5 million in co-funding with British Columbia to ensure complete mobile connectivity along Highway 16, also known as the Highway of Tears. In 2022-23 this project was still completing the work with 12 new cell towers being installed to provide 252 kilometers of new mobile coverage to ensure no gaps in mobile coverage along the whole highway. This project is targeted to be complete by fall 2023. This investment directly supports the immediate safety of Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people who will be able to access and receive help along Highway 16, fulfilling a key recommendation in the Highway of Tears Symposium Report and in the National Inquiry. In 2023-24, the federal government will continue to announce projects selected under the Universal Broadband Fund, including the mobile stream which will benefit Indigenous peoples.

Through advancing Calls for Justice 4.8, 5.5, 16.5, 17.9 and the fourth National Action Plan goal, the Government of Canada has made significant investments toward increasing access to and improving transportation, infrastructure, and internet connectivity for Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people in 2022-23. Moving into 2023-24, the Government of Canada will continue to fund Indigenous programs and support the construction of projects that work toward ending violence against Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people and prevent missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people.

Ongoing Support for Families and Survivors

Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people have and continue to be at the center of ending violence. Nowhere is this truer than in the work of families, survivors, and grassroots organizers. Families and survivors have demanded to be heard, respected, treated equitably, secure, and safe. To this effect, the wellbeing of and support for families and survivors continues to be of paramount importance to the Government of Canada. Indeed, Calls for Justices 3.7 and 5.6 request ongoing, accessible, and distinctions-based healing programs and support for families and survivors. The National Action Plan's second goal reiterates this call: families and survivors must remain at the centre of the implementation process. In 2022-23, the federal government continued to invest in distinctions-based initiatives that support the immediate and ongoing wellbeing of families and survivors.

The Support for the Wellbeing of Families and Survivors of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ People Contribution program, operated by Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada, supports the healing journeys of families and survivors across Canada through project-based funding. A total of $6 million in funding has been distributed to 20 organizations across eight provinces and territories. Specifically, in 2022-23, $3,069,394 was allocated to fund 13 new projects. A further $4,060,862 will continue to roll out as a part of this initiative in 2023-2024.

To this effect, Indigenous Services Canada and Health Canada are supporting the emotional and mental health of families and survivors through the Comprehensive Approach to Mental Wellness, an initiative that ensures continued support for the MMIWG 24/7 crisis line, the Inuit-led National Inuit Suicide Prevention Strategy and other trauma-informed supports for Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people. Importantly, the MMIWG 24/7 crisis line provides immediate emotional assistance for individuals affected by the issue of missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people.

Family members across Canada continue to face systemic, structural and geographic barriers in accessing current or historical information about their missing or murdered loved one. Recognizing the important role of Family Information Liaison Units (FILUs) in working with and for families to overcome those barriers, and to navigate the justice system and access needed community supports, the Government of Canada, in 2022-23 announced its intention to provide continued, sustained funding for FILU operations. Established in 2016, FILUs are a Justice Canada Federal Victims Strategy initiative, delivered through the Victims Fund in partnership with provincial and territorial governments and Indigenous community agencies. Thousands of family members have accessed FILU services, and now, as of 2023-24, funding in the amount of $7.6 million annually will be secure and in place for as long as families of missing and murdered Indigenous people need them.

These initiatives, and others throughout the federal government, have directly increased the number of programs and supports available to families and survivors of missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people. Families and survivors' wellbeing must be supported so that they can continue to inform government action.

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Achieve Transformational Institutional and Systemic Change through Recognition and Respect for the Rights of Indigenous Women, Girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ People

In addition to progress made in 2022-23 regarding the immediate and ongoing safety of Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people, the Government of Canada has acted to advance the institutional and systemic changes required to address the underlying causes of MMIWG2S+ and promote the rights of Indigenous Peoples. Considerable progress has been made in 2022-23 related to legislation, Indigenous rights, and sovereignty, and affecting change in the attitudes and beliefs of non-Indigenous Canadians. This work addresses several Calls for Justice, including 1.2, 1.5, 1.6, 2.1, 2.6, 12.1, 12.2 and National Action Plan goals 1, 4, and 6. Progress made this year worked to deliver transformative change on systemic racism, inequality, injustice, and the root causes of violence, resulting in paradigm shifts in policy and systems.

Highlights of this work in 2022-23 include:

1012 Indigenous language projects funded through Canadian Heritage's Indigenous Languages and Cultures Program
Three new time-limited agreements included in sections 8 and 9 of the Indigenous Languages Act as a result of Canadian Heritage's Indigenous Languages and Cultures Program
54 capacity-building projects approved for Indigenous communities to exercise authority over child and families services through Indigenous Services Canada funding
Funding secured to advance three national strategies that combat racism, work towards ending gender-based violence, and improve the rights of 2SLGBTQI+ people

Promoting and Respecting Rights Through Legislation

Advancing the rights of Indigenous Peoples is critical in affecting the long-term systemic changes required to prevent violence against Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people and address the root causes of this violence. All levels of government have legal obligations to ensure that the individual and collective rights of Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+people are fully respected, promoted, and upheld. Indeed, the National Inquiry emphasized the importance of achieving substantive equality through the recognition of Indigenous Rights. In 2022-23, the Government of Canada continued to advance several Calls for Justice and National Action Plan goals to secure and promote the inherent rights of Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people.

On June 21, 2021, the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (UNDA) received Royal Assent and came into force, helping to respond to Call for Justice 1.2.v. This Act provides a roadmap for the Government of Canada and First Nations, Inuit and Métis to work together to implement the Declaration. Importantly, the UNDA requires that action plan to achieve the objectives of the UN Declaration include measures to address injustices, combat prejudice and eliminate all forms of violence, racism and discrimination, including systemic racism and discrimination, against Indigenous peoples and Indigenous elders, youth, children, women, men, persons with disabilities and gender-diverse persons and Two-Spirit persons. The Government of Canada is committed to ensuring that the rights of Indigenous women are considered in the Act's implementation. As part of the consultation and cooperation process, the Government of Canada has engaged with 11 Indigenous women's organizations to date on their priorities UNDA implementation and proposed measures for the action plan, including those related to gender-based violence.

An Act respecting First Nations, Inuit and Métis children, youth, and families, passed in 2019, promotes UNDRIP to restore the past and ongoing harm that child welfare systems have caused to Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI + people. Indigenous women and 2SLGBTQI+ people, who are more likely to have been in government care as children compared to their non-Indigenous counterparts, experience higher rates of victimization and violence as adults.^{Footnote 8} This legislation affirms the inherent right of self-government, which includes jurisdiction in relation to child and family services, progressing Calls for Justice 12.1 and 12.2.

In 2022-23, to support An Act respecting First Nations, Inuit and Métis children, youth, and families, Indigenous Services Canada invested in capacity-building activities for Indigenous partners who wish to exercise authority over child and family services. Communities have received funding to support in preparation for the exercise of jurisdiction through activities such as: self-assessment of readiness; engagement; data strategy development; drafting of child and family services legislation; developing child and family services systems/models. Among communities that have previously received capacity-building funding, some have now fully taken over jurisdiction of their child and family services.

Indigenous Services Canada's capacity-building funding supported Peguis First Nation in successfully reaching an agreement with the Government of Canada and Government of Manitoba in January 2023 that ensures Peguis First Nation will be able to fully implement their plans for exercise of jurisdiction over child and family services.

This year, Indigenous Services Canada received a total of 126 capacity-building proposals of which 108 were approved The department will continue to receive and fund proposals in 2023-24. Similarly, in April 2023, Canada reached a final settlement agreement totaling $23 billion to compensate First Nations children and families harmed by discriminatory underfunding of the First Nations Child and Family Services program and those impacted by the federal government's narrow application of Jordan's Principle. Although the agreement must be approved by the Canadian Human Rights Tribunal and the Federal Court, reaching the agreement is a significant step closer to First Nations children and families receiving compensation.

In addition to implementing the UNDA, Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people's right to culture was advanced through the implementation of the Indigenous Languages Act, led by Canadian Heritage. The Act provides a foundation for long-term sustainable funding toward the revitalization and maintenance of Indigenous languages and cultures, directly supporting Calls for Justice 2.1. It also contributes to providing meaningful and permanent access to culture, tradition, and language supports the wellbeing and safety of Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people.^{Footnote 9}

Among the projects supported through the Indigenous Languages and Cultures Program there is a mentor-apprentice program in Mi'kmaq implemented by the Eel Ground First Nation of New Brunswick. This project provides 300 hours of instructions to nine apprentices paired with 8 Elders. Also, the Education Authority of the Ebb and Flow First Nation in Manitoba is implementing a language nest in Anishinabemowin offering 1,090 hours of instructions to two groups composed of 70 children ages three to four years old. Immersion programs such as mentor-apprentice for adults and language nests for toddlers are proven practices to support the revitalization of Indigenous languages.

In 2022-23, Canadian Heritage supported more than 1,000 Indigenous languages projects through the Indigenous Languages Component of the Indigenous Languages and Cultures Program. In 2023-24, Canadian Heritage will continue to financially support Indigenous language projects, including a broad range of activities that support the reclamation, revitalization, maintenance, and strengthening of Indigenous languages, such as language nests, immersion, on the land language camps, multi-media resources, and mentor-apprenticeship programs.

Further, in 2022-23, Canadian Heritage began implementing time-limited agreements under sections 8 and 9 of the Indigenous Languages Act. As a result, four new time-limited agreements have been signed with the First Peoples Cultural Council, the Matawa First Nations Education Authority, the National Association of Friendship Centres and Kinomaadswin Education Body Inc. In 2023-24, the department will implement new language agreements under the Sections 8 and 9 of the Indigenous Language Act with Indigenous governments and organizations, as well as provinces and territories to support Indigenous languages programs and services. One example of what is achieved through these agreements include the language revitalization program implemented by the Matawa First Nations Education Authority. As a first step, community-based adult programing is delivered in nine remote First Nation communities in Northern Ontario. The goal of the program is to create a cohort of fluent speakers capable of teaching Cree, Oji Cree and Ojibway to the next generation. Twenty-four full-time community instructors and twenty-four part-time assistants will be trained to further deliver programming across the communities, eventually reaching one thousand adult learners. These new speakers will then go on to provide training to other members of the First Nation communities scaling up the impact of the project.

Considerable progress was also made in 2022-23 to address the sex-based inequalities of the Indian Act, which previously prevented many Indigenous women and girls from obtaining Indian Status, through the implementation of Bill S-3. As a result of Bill S-3, by 2023, Indigenous Services Canada enabled over 38,000 people to obtain Indian Status. In addition, Indigenous Services Canada continued to demonstrate its commitment to addressing issues in registration by introducing Bill C-38 on December 14, 2022. Following introduction of the legislation, engagement sessions have pivoted to information sessions, which launched in January 2023.

In full recognition of the rights of Indigenous Peoples, the federal government continues to amend, co-develop, and implement legislation with relevance to violence against Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people. In the areas of culture, health, safety, and justice, the federal government is working to pass and implement legislation to affect long-term, systemic change in Canada. Details on status of each legislation can be found further on in this report.

Addressing the Root Causes of Violence Through Transformational Change

Violence against Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people is found at the intersection of racism, colonialism, sexism, homophobia, and transphobia. Ending each of these forms of discrimination requires a whole-of-government approach to ensure that the National Action Plan's vision of a transformed Canada where Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people are safe, secure, and live free from violence is realized. Transformative change is required across all governments and institutions. To enable transformational change and in response to Calls for Justice 1.5 and 1.6 and National Action Plan goals 1, 4, and 6, the Government of Canada has developed several national strategies.

Canadian Heritage, through its Federal Anti-Racism Secretariat, is leading Canada's Anti-Racism Strategy, and the associated National Action Plan on Combatting Hate. The Anti-Racism Strategy was launched in 2019 as a whole-of-government approach that includes participation from approximately 35 departments and agencies, all committed to addressing racism in Canada. Initiatives and activities supported under this strategy include the Anti-Racism Action Program, the Special Envoy on Holocaust Remembrance and Combatting Antisemitism, a partnership between Statistics Canada, the Department of Justice and Public Safety Canada to expand disaggregated data collection and research hate, and the Canada School of Public Service's Anti-Racism Learning Series. In 2022-23, PCH made progress toward obtaining the necessary funding to renew the strategy and continue to raise awareness and address the root causes of racism and hate in Canada, including the specific forms of racism and prejudice faced by Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people.

Similarly, the National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence (GBV NAP), led by Women and Gender Equality Canada, is the first ever federal-provincial-territorial strategic framework aiming to eliminate gender-based violence (GBV) in Canada. The GBV NAP aims for transformational change in Canadian society by addressing the root causes of GBV. Pillar 4 of the GBV NAP underscores the government's continuing commitment to work with Indigenous women, girls, and gender diverse peoples on the implementation of Indigenous-led approaches to ending GBV. Budget 2021 provided $55 million over five years to bolster the capacity of Indigenous women and 2SLGBTQI+ organizations. Funding provided in Budget 2022 supports the provinces' and territories' respective implementation efforts. Much like the Federal Pathway and the MMIWG NAP, the federal Gender-Based Violence Strategy, coordinated by Women and Gender Equality Canada, is the federal government's contribution to the GBV NAP. As part of the GBV Strategy, Women and Gender Equality Canada operates the Gender-Based Violence Knowledge Centre, the first federal repository of research, resources, and funding opportunities on gender-based violence in Canada.

Further, the Federal 2SLGBTQI+ Action Plan, also led by Women and Gender Equality, is Canada's first whole-of-government action plan focused on improving the lives and rights of 2SLGBTQI+ people in Canada. The Action Plan was the product of extensive engagement with organizations, subject-matter experts, advocates, and individuals from 2SLGBTQI+ communities. Through this work, the Government of Canada will enhance inclusion and break down stigma and discrimination against members of 2SLGBTQI+ communities, including Indigenous 2SLGBTQI+ people through an awareness campaign, addressing a component of Call for Justice 1.5. In partial response to Call for Justice 1.6, Women and Gender Equality Canada has been working toward establishing This table is set to launch in Summer 2023.

The Government of Canada acknowledges that work is required to address the discrimination, hate, and prejudice that threaten the safety and wellbeing of Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people. These national strategies each intend to create a transformational shift in Canada by addressing the attitudes and beliefs of non-Indigenous Canadians and eliminating racism, gender-based violence, homophobia, and transphobia. While it will take time to achieve these objectives, federal government efforts are well underway and will continue its work through Budget 2023 and future investments.

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Increase Transparency and Accountability to Build Better Relationships with Indigenous Partners, Families, and Survivors, and Monitor Progress

The Government of Canada is committed to and values building ongoing and long-term relationships with its Indigenous partners, family members, and survivors. With the understanding of cultural safety and humility, the Government of Canada recognizes the need to restore relationships and to maintain partnerships in a way that incorporates the principles of reciprocity. Several of the contributing National Action Plan partners have repeatedly called on all levels of government for improved accountability. Specifically, Calls for Justice 1.7 and 1.10, and the fifth goal identified by the National Action Plan, call for the development of oversight bodies such an Ombudsperson and an Indigenous human rights tribunal. Further, feedback received on the first Federal Pathway Annual Progress Report from partners, family members, and survivors indicated that accelerating transparency and accountability initiatives was a top priority for them. In 2022-23, the Government of Canada responded to and prioritized this feedback by actioning work on the Calls for Justice and National Action Plan goals that call for a national Ombudsperson, and an oversight body to monitor the progress of work seeking to end violence against Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGTBQI+ people.

Highlights of this work include:

Pre-engagement with Indigenous partners by the MMWIG Secretariat in the summer and fall of 2022 as well as an Indigenous company-led engagement that included 14 interviews and 13 regional meetings to engage with over 50 organizations to begin development of options/consideration for an oversight body in response to Call for Justice 1.10
Appointment of a Ministerial Special Representative to engage with families and survivors, National Indigenous Organizations, and other partners on Call for Justice 1.7
A national Federal, Provincial, Territorial, and Indigenous (FPTI) Round table on MMIWG and 2SLGBTQI+ people held to facilitate interjurisdictional cooperation and establish joint priorities

Engagement to Develop Oversight Body

The Government of Canada is committed to ending the violence against Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people, and acknowledges that considerable oversight is needed to ensure there is accountability on this commitment.

In working towards achieving Call for Justice, 1.10 which calls for an oversight body to monitor government progress on the Calls for Justice, engagements have begun in 2022-23 with over 50 women's organizations , partners, and families and survivors to determine a shared vision for an oversight body.

Work on Call for Justice 1.10 started through initial engagement by Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs with Indigenous partners, in the summer of 2022. In January 2023, an Indigenous company was selected to continue this engagement, and develop options for further consideration on what an oversight mechanism could look like. This company has conducted interviews and regional meetings with Indigenous partners to seek their input, one national opening meeting and one national reporting meeting. Based on their report, Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs will continue to work with Indigenous partners to establish the oversight mechanism. The Government of Canada recognizes that the implementation of an oversight body is long overdue but is dedicated to ensuring that it continues an Indigenous led process to its creation and implementation. To this end Budget 2023, proposes $2.2 million over the five years to continue this work and to establish the oversight mechanism.

Indigenous Ombudsperson and Human Rights Tribunal

There have been repeated requests from Indigenous partners for the establishment of an Indigenous Ombudsperson and Indigenous Human Rights Tribunal in Canada. Call for Justice 1.7 and the seventh National Action Plan goal each speak directly to the need for Indigenous human rights mechanisms with jurisdiction to act in every Canadian province and territory. The Government of Canada acknowledges the need for increased accountability and has appointed Ministerial Special Representative Jennifer Moore Rattray in 2023 to provide advice and recommendations, through engagement with survivors, families, partners and organizations, in support of Call for Justice 1.7. Jennifer Moore Rattray is a member of the Peepeekisis First Nation in Saskatchewan and is a former Executive Director of the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls.

Moving forward, the Government of Canada committed to providing an additional $1.6 million over two years to support the Ministerial Special Representative appointed to provide advice and recommendations on the creation of an Indigenous and Human Rights Ombudsperson.

Federal-Provincial-Territorial-Indigenous Table

Budget 2023 has proposed to fund $2.5 million over five years, starting in 2023-24 to "facilitate and coordinate work on advancing the National Action Plan by establishing a standing Federal-Provincial-Territorial-Indigenous table on Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and 2SLGBTQI+ People. This table will provide a specific forum to take action on areas of shared roles and responsibilities regarding Missing and Murdered Indigenous, Women, Girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ People, including prioritizing discussion on how to launch a "Red Dress Alert" to notify the public when an Indigenous woman or two-spirit person goes missing."

In collaboration with Indigenous partners, provinces and territories, and other federal government departments, the first federal-provincial-territorial-Indigenous Roundtable on MMIWG and 2SLGBTQI+ people was held on January 10, 2023, with over 200 participants. Prior to the event, Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada engaged Indigenous partners to discuss the concept of the Roundtable, as well as the potential agenda for the meeting, including the National Family and Survivor Circle, the Urban Working Group, the 2SLGBTQQIA+ Committee, the Assembly of First Nations, Inuit Tapariit Kanatami, Les Femmes Michif Otipemisiwak, Congress of Aboriginal Peoples, Native Women's Association of Canada, and several regional Indigenous women's organizations. The roundtable was a half-day virtual meeting with leadership and representative organizations and included Ministerial level representatives from a series of federal government portfolios as well as from all provinces and territories. The meeting focused on hearing from Indigenous voices on topics including families and survivors and the urban environment, as well as providing updates from the federal, provincial and territorial ministerial representatives. Topics were introduced by Indigenous grassroots speakers, followed by open dialogue.

In response to the Budget 2023 announcement about the Federal-Provincial-Territorial-Indigenous table, Crown Indigenous Relations will be working with Indigenous partners, provinces and territories, to develop the format of the standing table and to discuss the "Red Dress Alert". A follow-up Federal-Provincial-Territorial-Indigenous meeting will be planned in the upcoming fiscal year.

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Reporting on the Calls for Justice

The National Inquiry's Calls for Justice form the foundation on which the federal government's work to address MMIWG2S+ is built. These recommendations are grounded in the lived experiences of Indigenous families, survivors, women, girls, 2SLGBTQI+ people, communities, organizations, and governments. They represent the most comprehensive analysis of causes violence against Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people to date.

Federal government

Related Initiatives

Appointment of an Indigenous firm to provide options regarding Call for Justice 1.10 through engagement with Indigenous women, representative organizations, 2SLGBTQ+ persons and other key Indigenous leadership

Indigenous Screen Office (ISO)

Comprehensive Approach to Mental Wellness
Support for the Wellbeing of Families and Survivors of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ People
Distinctions-Based Mental Wellness Strategies

Co-development of Infrastructure Plans
Safe and accessible transportation options in rural, remote and northern communities – FES 2020
Safe and accessible transportation options in rural, remote and northern communities – B2021
Accessible transportation services for fly-in, northern, and remote communities
Remote Passenger Rail Program

Disaggregated data and new data collection: Advance the collection of data on Indigenous identity of victims and accused through national police-reported crime statistics–data development
Indigenous-Led Data Research Projects Program/ National Indigenous Data Advisory Group on MMIWG2S+

Calls for Media and Social Influencers

Call for Justice [6.1]

Take decolonizing approaches to media work in order to educate all Canadians about Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people

Call for Justice Jurisdiction

Media; news outlets; government-funded outlets; media unions; associations; guilds; academic institutions; others working in media

Related Initiatives

Indigenous Screen Office (ISO)

Addressing Anti-Indigenous Racism in Canada's Health Systems
Distinctions-Based Mental Wellness Strategies

National strategy to ensure consistency in practices for reporting missing Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people

Calls for Attorneys and Law Societies

Call for Justice [10.1]

Provide mandatory intensive and periodic training of Crown attorneys, defence lawyers, and court staff on Indigenous cultures and histories

Call for Justice Jurisdiction

Federal, provincial, and territorial governments; Canadian law societies and bar associations

Related Initiatives

Improve the Inuit Justice training curriculum and develop new Justice training curriculums that reflect First Nations and Métis realities respectively

A new Child and Family Services model designed and implemented by the Cowessess First Nation to support Cowessess First Nations' exercise of jurisdiction
In addition to increased funding to implement the Act respecting First Nations, Inuit and Métis children, youth, and families, $340.8 million over ten years will flow to support a new Child and Family Services model designed by Wabaseemoong Independent Nations and to support their exercise of jurisdiction over child and family services overall starting in 2021-22

Co-development of Infrastructure Plans
Indigenous Community Infrastructure Fund
Indigenous Community Infrastructure Fund – Funding for First Nations and funding for Urban Indigenous Peoples
Indigenous Community Infrastructure Fund – Funding for Inuit
Indigenous Community Infrastructure Fund – Funding for Métis
Indigenous Community Infrastructure Fund – Northern and NWT Métis
Advancing Economic Reconciliation in the Natural Resource Sector: Renewal of IAMC-Line 3 and IAMC-TMX (which includes IAMC-TMX Temporary Work Camps & Influx of Workers Initiative)

Expand community reintegration supports for Indigenous women who are offenders

Calls for Justice for All Canadians

Call for Justice [15.2]

Learning the true history of Canada and Indigenous history in your local area

Call for Justice Jurisdiction

All Canadians

Related Initiatives

Supporting the digitization of and access to Indigenous documentary heritage

Indigenous Awareness Training, race-based data collection study, and Systemic Review in Nunavut to examine the RCMPs handling of the public complaint process
Indigenous-Led Data Research Projects Program/ National Indigenous Data Advisory Group on MMIWG2S+

Improve the Inuit Justice training curriculum and develop new Justice training curriculums that reflect First Nations and Métis realities respectively
Remote Passenger Rail Program

2SLGBTQQIA-Specific Calls for Justice

Call for Justice [18.4]

Modify data collection methods

Call for Justice Jurisdiction

All governments, service providers, and those involved in research to modify data collection methods

Related Initiatives

Indigenous Awareness Training, race-based data collection study, and Systemic Review in Nunavut to examine the RCMPs handling of the public complaint process
Indigenous-Led Data Research Projects Program/ National Indigenous Data Advisory Group on MMIWG2S+

Call for Justice [18.25]

Build shelters and housing to address homelessness, and provide dedicated spaces and services for trans and non-binary individuals

Call for Justice Jurisdiction

All governments

Related Initiatives

Reaching Home: Canada's Homelessness Strategy
The National Housing Strategy, led by Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation
Enhancing Reaching Home to provide longer term certainty for the organizations doing vitally important work across the country and ensure that our communities have the support they need to continue to prevent and address homelessness
Conduct action research about what further measures could contribute to eliminating chronic homelessness in Canada
First Nations Housing on Reserves
Budget 2022 – Inuit Housing Investment
Budget 2022 – Métis housing Investment
Budget 2022 – Self-Governing and Modern Treaty First Nations Housing Investment
Rapid Housing Initiative
National Housing Co-Investment Fund (NHCF)
Co-Operative Housing Development
Direct support for those in housing Need
Affordable Housing in the North

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Culture

Restoring and Revitalizing Indigenous Languages and Cultures

The National Inquiry emphasized that permanent and meaningful access to culture, language, and tradition is an inherent right that supports the health, wellness and safety of Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people.^{Footnote 10} The loss of access to culture contributes to violence against Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people, as culture can function as a form of safety. Traditional ways of living provide social and cultural supports to Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people and without these, they can become disempowered, isolated, and more likely to experience poverty, homelessness, addiction, and other forms of marginalization, all of which significantly increase the risk of being victimized by violence.

In 2022-23, the Government of Canada continued to invest in the restoration and revitalization of Indigenous languages and cultures, with a view to improving the safety of Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people.

Highlights of this work include:

The Canadian Heritage Indigenous Languages Component, invested in programs and initiatives that supported the reclamation, revitalization, maintenance, and strengthening of Indigenous languages. Among these is the Michif Language Revitalization Circle Society of British Columbia who delivered over 925 hours of Michif language instruction to 39 participants. The organization also produced language kits containing three volumes of curriculum targeting schools, communities and daycare centres.
The Cultural Spaces in Indigenous Communities Program provided funding to Indigenous communities to construct or revitalize cultural centers. Among these are:
- Support for the Métis Nation of Ontario to establish the scope, design and feasibility for two culture and language camps.
- Support for the Nunamiutuqaq - Building from the Land project (NU) by the Kitikmeot Heritage Society in Cambridge Bay to create a welcoming place of belonging where all community members, especially women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people, can gather to explore and learn about their history, traditions, and culture.
- Support for the launch of the Witset Youth Healing Lodge Project, to empower Indigenous youth, particularly young women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people by sharing traditional culture and community connection to help them to heal from mental health problems, addictions, trauma, and other challenges.
Under Section 9 of the Indigenous Languages Act, Canadian Heritage continued to fund an agreement with the Government of Nunavut and Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated to increase the number of educators in the Government of Nunavut educations system.
Library and Archives Canada launched the second call for proposals for the Listen, Hear Our Voices funding initiative. This call received 64 applications from First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Nation governments and organizations which will be reviewed in the upcoming fiscal year.
As of March 1, 2023, Library and Archives Canada has reviewed and digitized 213,133 items through We Are Here Sharing Stories.
On January 31, 2023, the Government of Canada signed a tripartite coordination agreement with and provided funding to Peguis First Nation and the Government of Manitoba that transitioned child and family services to the jurisdiction of Peguis First Nation, the first coordination agreement to be signed in Manitoba, and the third in Canada.
On February 1, 2023 the Government of Canada signed a bilateral agreement with and provided funding to Louis Bull Tribe that transitioned child and family services to the jurisdiction of Louis Bull Tribe, the fourth such agreement to be signed in Canada.
On March 24, 2023, the Government of Canada signed a tripartite coordination agreement with Splatsín First Nation and the Government of British Colombia. Canada and British Colombia have provided funding to Splatsín to help the First Nation Implement their law and jurisdiction of their own child and family services delivery model.
On March 31, 2023, the Government of Canada signed a tripartite coordination agreement with Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug (KI) Nation and the Province of Ontario. Canada and Ontario have provided funding to KI to help the First Nation Implement their law and jurisdiction of their own child and family services delivery model.
On March 31, 2023, the Government of Canada signed a tripartite coordination agreement with Loon River First Nation, Peerless Trout First Nation, and Lubicon First Nation (the Founding First Nations of the Kee Tas Kee Now Tribal Council) and the Province of Alberta. Canada has provided funding to KI to help the First Nation Implement their law and jurisdiction of their own child and family services delivery model.

Full details on Federal Pathway initiatives under the Culture theme can be found below.

Culture initiatives

Initiative: Investments in Indigenous Languages

Lead department(s): Canadian Heritage
Funding: $275M/5 years and $2M ongoing
Description: Supporting the implementation of the Indigenous Languages Act.
Calls for Justice: 2.2ii, 2.3, 2.4, 7.5, 16.2, 16.25
Calls for Miskotahâ: N/A

Planned Milestones 2022-23

Planned for 2022-23

Funding for Indigenous Languages

Canadian Heritage will implement the 2022-23 Call for Proposals, which will continue to support Indigenous language projects under the Indigenous Languages Component of the Indigenous Languages and Cultures Program. Projects supported under the Indigenous Languages Component include a broad range of activities to support the reclamation, revitalization, maintenance and strengthening of Indigenous languages, such as language nests, immersion, on the land language camps, multi-media resources, and mentor-apprenticeship programs.

Agreements under the Indigenous Languages Act

Canadian Heritage will launch a First Nation-specific Call for Expressions of Interest for potential agreements under sections 8 and 9 of the Indigenous Languages Act (the Act). The Department will continue to implement new agreements under the Act with Indigenous governments and organizations, provinces and territories to support Indigenous languages programs and services, coordinate efforts to efficiently and effectively support Indigenous languages or meet the purposes of the Act.

Update on 2022-23

To date, in addition to the two existing pathfinder agreements under Sections 8 and 9, four new time-limited agreements have been signed with the First Peoples Cultural Council, the Matawa First Nations Education Authority, the National Association of Friendship Centres and Kinomaadswin Education Body Inc.
In February 2023, the Department of Canadian Heritage launched a First Nations-specific call for applications for this time-limited Sections 8 and 9 funding. This complements tables that already exist with Inuit, Métis, and urban and multi-distinction partners where discussions on new long-term or section 8 and 9 agreements are advanced.

Coming up in 2023-24

Funding for Indigenous Languages

Canadian Heritage will continue to financially support Indigenous language projects through the Indigenous Languages Component of the Indigenous Languages and Cultures Program. This includes supporting a broad range of activities that support the reclamation, revitalization, maintenance and strengthening of Indigenous languages, such as language nests, immersion, on the land language camps, multi-media resources, and mentor-apprenticeship programs.

Agreements under the Indigenous Languages Act

The Department will continue to implement new agreements under the Act with Indigenous governments and organizations, provinces, and territories to support Indigenous languages programs and services, coordinate efforts to efficiently and effectively support Indigenous languages or meet the purposes of the Act.

Planned Engagement for 2022-23

National partners

Canadian Heritage will continue to work with First Nations, Inuit and Métis Nation Review Committees, who review and assess Indigenous Language Component funding proposals and make recommendations to the Department on which proposals to fund and the recommended funding level.

The Department will also continue to work collaboratively with Indigenous partners to further refine the funding models so that Budget 2021 funding under the Indigenous Languages Component better responds to the distinct needs of First Nations, Inuit, Métis Nation, and organizations supporting multi-distinction and urban populations.

Regional and community-based partners

In addition, Canadian Heritage will continue to reach 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 funding for Indigenous languages and agreements under the Indigenous Languages Act.

Update on 2022-23 Engagement

National partners

Canadian Heritage worked with First Nations, Inuit and Métis Nation Review Committees, and implemented all of their recommendations for funding.

The Department continued to work collaboratively with Indigenous partners to further refine the funding models so that Budget 2021 funding under the Indigenous Languages Component better responds to the distinct needs of First Nations, Inuit, Métis Nation, and organizations supporting multi-distinction and urban populations. This included engagement with:

a Joint Implementation Steering Committee comprised of the Assembly of First Nations, Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami, the Métis National Council and Canadian Heritage;
the Manitoba Métis Federation;the Inuit-Crown Partnership Committee–Inuktitut Working Group Table;Michif working group with Métis National Council and Métis Governing Members;
the Canada-Congress of Aboriginal Peoples Accord Indigenous Languages Table;
Self Governing Indigenous Governments.

Regional and community-based partners

Canadian Heritage continued to reach 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 funding for Indigenous languages and agreements under the Indigenous Languages Act. Examples include:

Officials from Canadian Heritage, the Province of B.C. and the FPCC have signed a MOU, which aims to provide long-term predictable and sustainable provincial and federal support to reclaim, revitalize and maintain First Nations languages. It also provides for exploring opportunities, where they exist, to achieve the same objectives for cultural heritage, and arts in BC.
Part of the Tripartite Pathfinder Agreement is the establishment of a Nunavut Partnership Table on Language and Education, comprised of the Government of Nunavut, Nunavut Tunngavik Inc. and the Department of Canadian Heritage, The Table met in June 2022 and discussed progress of the Tripartite Agreement and initiated the development of a workplan.

Calls for Justice/Calls for Miskotahâ

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.

Initiative: Indigenous Screen Office (ISO)

Lead department(s): Canadian Heritage
Funding: $40.1M/3 years
Description: Supporting Canadian Indigenous creators and organizations to produce audiovisual content and grow capacity in the industry through an Indigenous-led organization. Advancing Indigenous narrative sovereignty and contributing to ending violence against Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people by supporting the creation of authentic stories by and about Indigenous Peoples in Canada.
Calls for Justice: 2.7, 6.1
Calls for Miskotahâ: 21

Planned Milestones 2022-23

Planned for 2022-23

The Indigenous Screen Office program (ISOP) is a contribution program that funds Indigenous audiovisual projects in any format for distribution on any platform and is delivered by the Indigenous Screen Office (ISO), an independent Indigenous-led organization.
Launched in September 2021, the ISOP completed its first year of full programming.
In Q2, ISO published its 2021-22 annual report and reported that 122 development and production projects were funded.
Canadian Heritage will continue its commitment from Budget 2021 to disburse $13 million in 2022-2023 to ISO to fund First Nations, Métis and Inuit storytellers, so that Indigenous peoples can tell their own stories and see themselves reflected on-screen. This funding supports and advances Indigenous narrative sovereignty.
In Q2, ISOP became the first Indigenous program in the Department of Canadian Heritage to include the flexible contribution arrangement from Annex K of the Directive on Transfer Payments, which granted the ISO corporation the assurances and flexibility it sought to operate as an autonomous, independent organization that supports the Department's progress on reconciliation.
As indicated in the Minister of Canadian Heritage mandate letter in 2021, Canadian Heritage will work towards providing additional ongoing funding to ISO as the current funding is sunsetting in 2024-25.
Canadian Heritage will also work on assessing the broader needs of the Indigenous audiovisual and broadcasting sector and look at developing new support systems and/or modernize current funding mechanisms for Indigenous broadcasters and creators.

Update on 2022-23

$13 million in ISOP program funding was disbursed to ISO in 2022-2023. To date, over $11 million has been allocated to fund First Nations, Métis and Inuit storytellers, enabling Indigenous peoples to tell their own stories and see themselves reflected on-screen.
ISOP contributed to the first annual report on the Federal Pathway, which was published in June 2022.
ISOP reported on the Horizontal Initiative Results Framework which was published in Fall 2022.
The ISO released its 3-year Strategic Plan in 2022, which outlined four strategic goals: leading systemic change in Canadian screen-based industries, growing audience appreciation and access to Indigenous content, investing in a connected talent stream and building a thriving organization.
A New Media Program (Digital, Interactive and Immersive Funding) was launched in Summer 2022 to support novel digital content such as podcasts, AR/VR/XR projects, web series, apps, and games.
Jesse Wente stepped down as Co-Executive Director at the end of 2022, with Kerry Swanson being appointed by the Board of Directors to the role of Chief Executive Officer.

Coming up in 2023-24

ISO's 2022-23 Annual Report will be published in July 2023.

Indigenous Screen Office Program funding is sunsetting at the end of fiscal year 2023-2024, so the Government of Canada is currently working toward the mandate commitment of providing additional ongoing funding to the ISO.

Planned Engagement for 2022-23

National partners

Canadian Heritage will continue engaging with the National Indigenous Organizations on the policy development of Indigenous audiovisual and broadcasting support.

Regional and community-based partners

Canadian Heritage will engage with Indigenous stakeholders and partners on the Indigenous audiovisual and broadcasting support.

Update on 2022-23 Engagement

Coordinated by the Indigenous Screen Office Team, the Broadcasting, Copyright and Creative Marketplace branch of Canadian Heritage held 18 engagements and technical briefings with National Indigenous Organizations on audiovisual and broadcasting policy and legislation, in addition to ongoing engagement and co-development with the Indigenous Screen Office.

Calls for Justice/Calls for Miskotahâ

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.

Initiative: Supporting the digitization of and access to Indigenous documentary heritage

Lead department(s): Library and Archives Canada
Funding: $14.9M/4 years
Description: Ensuring widespread access to material related to Indigenous language and culture through digitization initiatives. Renewing funding for initiatives aiming to support the digitization and preservation of Indigenous languages and stories.
Calls for Justice: 2.2(ii), 2.3, 2.4, 2.5, 15.2, 16.2, 16.25, 17.25
Calls for Miskotahâ: 21

Planned Milestones 2022-23

Planned for 2022-23

Q1: Research, digitization and description of Indigenous-specific documentary heritage in the collections at LAC begins
Q2: Establishment of a visiting Elders program to provide support for Indigenous staff and guidance to LAC
Q4: 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
Q4: Development and implementation of responsive Indigenous reference services and activities
Q4: Launch of the second contributions funding call for Indigenous nations, governments, and non-profit organizations

Update on 2022-23

Second call for proposals for the Listen, Hear Our Voices funding initiative launched on November 25, 2022. The call closed on January 31, 2023, and received 64 applications from First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Nation governments and organizations.
Using a specific digitization and analysis checklist, the We Are Here: Sharing Stories has reviewed and digitized 213,133 items as of March 1, 2023.

Coming up in 2023-24

Launch of the third call for proposals for contributions funding for First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Nation governments and organizations.
Selection, Review, and Digitization of RG10 Microfilm Case files, RG-85 Inuit content, RG-15 Métis Scrip content, Canada Land Survey Records of official plans of Federal Indian Reserves

Planned Engagement for 2022-23

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 in 2018 for a two-year term to guide LAC on developing and implementing the Indigenous-specific initiatives. The IAC is composed of First Nations, Inuit and Métis professionals from across the country. These individuals have expertise in archives, libraries, and other heritage institutions. The group has recently convened for a renewed two-year term to continue its guiding role. 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.

Update on 2022-23 Engagement

Regional and community-based partners were invited to learn more about the Listen, Hear Our Voices funding initiative and application process through four information webinars (2 English sessions, 2 French sessions) held in December 2022 and January 2023. Thirty-nine participants attended the webinars.

Consultation with IAC and community outreach to review WAHSS methodology, engagement strategies and validate content of importance.

Calls for Justice/Calls for Miskotahâ

The IAC 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. The 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. LHOV 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, WAHSS 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

Initiative: Cultural Spaces in Indigenous Communities Program (CSICP)

Lead department(s): Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs
Funding: $108.8M/2 years
Description: Supporting Indigenous communities in re-establishing and revitalizing cultural spaces that support Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ individuals through this new contribution program. Cultural spaces that may be built or revitalized may include but are not limited to longhouses, powwow grounds, heritage parks, and cultural centres. This investment ensures that women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ individuals have increased access to inclusive and safe cultural spaces where they can share experiences, connect with their communities, and participate in cultural activities without discrimination, harassment, or denial of identity.
Calls for Justice: 2.3
Calls for Miskotahâ: 21

Planned Milestones 2022-23

Planned for 2022-23

Budget 2021 announced $108.8 million (including $2.4 million internal resources) over 2 years, starting in 2021 to 2022, to re-establish and revitalize Indigenous cultural spaces. A call for proposals was launched in summer 2021. More than 340 applications were received from across Canada at the closing date in December.

Update on 2022-23

The review of all applications was completed in December 2022 following over 70 committee meetings and the participation of over 40 volunteer reviewers from across ISC-CIRNAC.
51 CSICP funding decisions were made in FY22-23 in addition to 15 early investments in FY21-22.
The full contribution envelope was disbursed ($106.4M) as well as an extra $14M from unallocated departmental funds for a cumulated $120.4M
12 CIRNAC public announcements were undertaken across the country (in addition to 2 earlier announcements in FY2021-22) with more CSICP communication events expected in 2023-24

Coming up in 2023-24

Q1: Launch of a project map to be posted on CSICP webpage with all 66 funded projects
Q1-Q4: Support to the completion of up to 63 projects carried forward into 2023-24

Planned Engagement for 2022-23

Update on 2022-23 Engagement

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. As a testimony of this close cooperation, 2 Canadian Heritage staff are currently seconded to CSICP with a 3rd one scheduled to start in 2023-24.

Regional and community-based partners

The CSICP will continue to grow its community engagement through regular program updates and sustained communication with funded partners. This includes 66 Indigenous-led projects.

Calls for Justice/Calls for Miskotahâ

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. It further supports Call for Miskotahâ 21 which emphasizes the importance of bringing together Métis communities and families to share, learn about and reinforce Métis culture and a positive sense of Métis identity.

Initiative: Circle of Nations

Lead Department(s): Natural Resources Canada (NRCan)
Funding: $450,000 annually, over two years (2022-23 to 2023-24) through NRCan Departmental Reserve
Description: In response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's Call to Action #57, NRCan established the Circle of Nations in 2017 to increase awareness of the history and cultures of First Nations, Métis and Inuit peoples in Canada. One of the Circle's core objectives is to provide Indigenous cultural competency training to public servants at NRCan, in alignment with Calls for Justice 16.27 and 17.8, as well as Call for Miskotahâ 16. With this in mind, the Circle and its' initiatives are designed to help educate, empower, and reconcile. In addition to implementing TRC's Call to Action #57, the Circle is the hub for information on Elder Engagement. The Circle provides expertise on protocols for having an Elder to open and close a meeting, and answers questions about the protocol of acknowledging land or offering tobacco. The Circle also provides a space where public servants can gather to learn, share and understand their role in reconciliation.
Calls for Justice: 16.27, 17.8
Calls for Miskotahâ: 16

Planned Milestones 2022-23

Update on 2022-23

In 2022-23 the Circle of Nations offered 110 learning events across the Government of Canada, resulting in the participation of 4,408 public servants across all federal departments and agencies. Additionally, the Circle of Nations held 72 events specifically for Natural Resources Canada staff, which helped 2,542 departmental employees complete their eight hours of must-do Indigenous cultural competency training. In addition, the Elders-in-Residence attended and supported 110 different meetings, Circles and event for sectors within NRCan, including:

Partner Spotlight of the Native Women's Association (NWAC), the CEO spoke to staff about NWAC's mandate and how we work together to advance Reconciliation;
Presentation on the Moosehide Campaign which aims to bring awareness to stop violence against women;
Presentation by Parliamentary Poet Laureate Louise, an Indigenous poet.
An Indigenous author shared her experience in Mining during National Mining week.
During Pride week, an Indigenous 2 Spirited speaker presented on their role as a land protector;
On National Day of Remembrance for MMIWG2S+ an advocate and family member shared her story and call to action. Her daughter went missing in 2008 and has still not been found;
One of NRCan's Resident Elders provided teachings on the Enquiry of MMIWG2S+;
Senator Michèle Audette was invited to share about her role in the MMIWG2S+ movement;
Leading up to the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, female Survivors of Residential schools shared their stories with staff, including female Elders within NRCan's Elders in Residence Program;
For International Women's Day 2022, the Circle hosted a leader and advocate for MMIWG2S and former President of the NWAC as well as one of NRCan's Resident Elders both conducted teachings on the traditional roles of Indigenous women and Indigenous Women Ceremonies.

Coming up in 2023-24

The Circle of Nations looks forward to hosting a presentation by Autumn Peltier, Indigenous youth role model and advocate – water protector. The Circle will also continue to highlight the role of Indigenous women by bringing in speakers, partners, Elders and leaders who profile and support Indigenous women. Specific events planned for 2023-2024 include:

Elder teaching on MMIWG along with a call out to wear red on Red Dress Day on May 5, 2023,
Participation in the Moosehide Campaign on May 11, 2023, including a teaching from a Resident Elder followed by a Smudge and Sharing Circle;
Sharing and healing circles for women only;
Sharing and healing circles exclusively for the 2SLGBTQI+ community;
Women's-only ceremonial sweat lodge offered by our Resident Elder;
Ribbon Skirt making on National Ribbon Skirt Day on January 4, 2024;
Partner spotlight with National Indigenous Women's Organization Pauktuutit Inuit Women of Canada; and
Panel discussions and spotlights on Indigenous Women leaders in recognition of International Women's Day on March 8, 2024.

Planned Engagement for 2022-23

National, regional and community-based partners

NRCan's Elders in Residence Program
The Elders have a collective memory of history, treaties, Indigenous ways of knowing and being, teachings, songs and ceremonies, which have been passed down for centuries. Currently, eight Elders make up NRCan's Elders in Residence Program. Comprised of First Nations, Métis and Inuit Elders, the Elders play a vital role to build bridges and foster greater understanding and reconciliation at NRCan. The program is inclusive of 2SLGBTQI+ people and includes an Elder that identifies as transgendered, and an Elder that identifies as Two Spirited. In the upcoming year, the Elders will continue to promote awareness and the use of Indigenous languages through their teachings and ceremonies. Weekly Teachings cover many topics, including the traditional roles of Indigenous women, women ceremonies, women traditional Pow Wow dances and teachings related to addressing and mitigating violence against Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls.

Update on 2022-23 Engagement

In addition to engaging with Elders from NRCan's Elders in Residence program, the Circle also engaged and collaborated with Indigenous women, Indigenous organizations, including National Indigenous Women's Organizations as well as Survivors of violence and their families to deliver programming throughout 2022-23.

Throughout the year, the Circle and the Elders in Residence Program also engaged and collaborated with the NRCan Pride Network and the NRCan Black Employees Network to develop weekly teachings.

Calls for Justice/Calls for Miskotahâ

The Circle's core objective is to provide Indigenous cultural competency training to public servants at NRCan. The Circle's programming supports Calls for Justice 16.27 and 17.8, which call upon the federal government to provide Inuit and Métis specific cultural competency training to public servants. It also supports Call for Miskotahâ 16 which calls for Métis specific cultural training. Furthermore, the Circle's programming align with the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's (TRC) Call to Action #57 which calls on the Government to provide education to public servants on the history of Indigenous Peoples, including skills-based training in intercultural competency, human rights and anti-racism.

Initiative: Increased funding to implement An Act respecting First Nations, Inuit and Métis children, youth and families, for Indigenous communities for coordination agreement discussions to support the exercise of First Nations, Inuit and Métis jurisdiction in relation to child and family services as well as funding for internal and resources to support Indigenous communities

Lead department(s): Indigenous Services Canada
Funding: $87.3M over three-to-five years, starting in 2022-23
Description: B2021: $73.6M/4 years to support An Act respecting FN, Inuit and Métis children, youth and families. Budget 2022 provides increased funding to the following work underway: to support the exercise of jurisdiction; and coordination agreement discussions. ISC is committed to continued engagement with National Indigenous Organizations and directly with section 35 rights-holders following the coming-into-force of the Act.
Calls for Justice: 12.1, 12.2, 12.3, 12.4, 12.6, 16.6, 16.17
Calls for Miskotahâ: 17.3, 17.4, 17.5, 17.16, 17.17, 17.19, 17.20

Planned Milestones 2022-23

Planned for 2022-23

Indigenous groups, communities and Peoples have increased access to capacity-building support to explore the implementation of the Act. Increase in venues for partners to discuss high-level policy issues relating to the effective implementation of the Act. Budget 2022 provides increased funding to the following work underway: to support the exercise of jurisdiction; and coordination agreement discussions.

In passing new federal legislation in 2019, Canada committed to reforming Indigenous child and family services (CFS) and to substantive equality for Indigenous children. An Act respecting First Nations, Inuit and Métis children, youth and families (the Act) establishes national principles and minimum standards, and provides a framework that Indigenous groups, communities and peoples can use when exercising jurisdiction in relation to child and family services.

In advance of exercising jurisdiction under the Act, Indigenous Services Canada (ISC) funds capacity-building activities undertaken by Indigenous partners wishing to exercise jurisdiction related to CFS. Capacity-building funding supports Indigenous groups, communities, and peoples as they work within and across their communities to develop Indigenous CFS legislation, systems and programs in preparation for a coordination agreement discussion. Funding for capacity-building activities may be provided for: resources and mechanisms for community engagement; planning; research; coordination; initial drafting of CFS legislation and policies; and initial program development.

Capacity building funding does not overlap with funding provided to a group at a coordination agreement table. Since the inception of capacity-building funding in 2020, 260 capacity-building proposals totaling $130.5 million in funding has been approved to support Indigenous governing bodies preparing for the exercise of jurisdiction under the Act. In fiscal year 2022-2023, as of March 8, 2023 there have been 125 capacity-building proposals received for a total amount requested of $79M, and 103 of these proposals having been approved for $55M, with the others at various stages of assessment. Assessment of 22 outstanding proposals is still ongoing for 2022-2023 and it is expected that additional proposals will be approved by end of fiscal. Budget 2022 funding further supports this work and capacity-building funding will continue to be available to Indigenous groups in 2023-2024.

Through the framework of the Act, an Indigenous group, community or people can submit a request for a coordination agreement. There are 13 active coordination agreement tables underway, and four coordination agreements have been completed. In 2022/23, it is expected that a further three coordination agreements will be completed.

Update on 2022-23

As of February 2022, four Coordination Agreements have been signed- Cowessess First Nation, Wabaseemoong Independent Nations, Peguis First Nation, and Louis Bull Tribe. Three additional coordination agreements will be signed in March 2023: Splatsin (BC), Founding First Nations (AB), and Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug First Nation (ON)

Coming up in 2023-24

It is projected that there will be 3 Coordination Agreements completed in the 2023-24 fiscal year.

Planned Engagement for 2022-23

ISC is committed to continued engagement with National Indigenous Organizations and directly with section 35 rights-holders following the coming-into-force of the Act.

Engagement with National Partners

Bilateral governance structures have been or are currently being established with National Indigenous Organizations to support the development of distinctions-based approaches towards implementation of the Act. Regular engagement through these forums will continue over 2022-23. This includes:
- a Joint Protocol regarding An Act Respecting First Nations, Inuit and Métis children, youth and families and the Joint National Working Group with the Assembly of First Nations;
- the Strategic Work Plan for Implementation of An Act Respecting First Nations, Inuit and Métis Children, Youth and Families, which is implemented through the Ad Hoc Child Welfare Working Group with Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami; and
- a Memorandum of Understanding on developing a Canada-Métis Nation Child and Family Services Accord, which once finalized will transition to implementation through a new bilateral working group.
- Distinctions-based working groups to co-develop data strategies and approaches to deliver insights that will help address the over-representation of Indigenous children and youth in care.

Governance Engagement Mechanisms

GEMs discussions are Indigenous-led, distinctions-based, inclusive engagement held at the community, regional and national levels that are intended to result in recommendations on implementation of the Act to federal, provincial, territorial and Indigenous governments. To date, 15 Indigenous partners have been funded to organize GEMs. Nine GEMs series are ongoing, with more to expected to occur by December 2023.

Engagement with Regional and Indigenous Partners

ISC manages the intake process for section 20 notices and/or requests under the Act, from the initial acknowledgement of receipt, to working with CIRNA to confirm section 35 rights and authorization as Indigenous governing bodies, to the preliminary meeting with the Indigenous governing bodies (IGBs). Engagement will continue at the community and regional level with groups wishing to exercise jurisdiction through the framework provided by the Act.

Update on 2022-23 Engagement

Several Indigenous Governing Bodies are submitting notice to re-assume jurisdiction for the care of their children and families under the Act. More funding is currently being sought to provide capacity-building funding and to support coordination agreements with Indigenous Governing Bodies that are or will be exercising jurisdiction with their own Child and Family Laws. This applies to each First Nation, Inuit, and Métis Indigenous Governing Body in Canada. To date, 7 Indigenous Governing Bodies have their own laws in place, displacing the province/territory from their jurisdiction over those nations' children, youth and families.

Calls for Justice/Calls for Miskotahâ

The following Calls for Justice are broadly linked to the work being undertaken by the Act, but also the immediate measures implemented by the First Nations Child and Family Services Program, currently under reform. (Calls for Justice: 12.1, 12.2, 12.3, 12.4, 12.6, 16.6, 16.17 and Calls for Miskotahâ: 17.3, 17.4, 17.5, 17.16, 17.17, 17.19, 17.20)

January 1, 2023, marked the three-year anniversary of the coming into force of An Act respecting First Nations, Inuit and Métis children, youth and families (the Act). This historic legislation affirms the right of Indigenous groups, communities and Peoples to exercise jurisdiction in relation to Indigenous child and family services and sets out a framework through which this can be done. Further, the Act establishes national minimum standards and principles, such as the best interests of the child, cultural continuity and substantive equality, which apply throughout Canada for the provision of child and family services in relation to Indigenous children.

The Act supports First Nations, Inuit and Métis groups, communities and Peoples as they decide what is best for their children, families, and communities, and is an important step towards meaningfully addressing the over-representation of Indigenous children in care. It is also fundamental in advancing reconciliation efforts with Indigenous Peoples.

Early reforms to the First Nations Child and Family Services Program (Program) were implemented in April 2022. Until such time as a Final Settlement Agreement is reached for the long-term reform of the Program, the immediate measures being implemented include:

funding for prevention services was significantly increased;
funding for post-majority support services is needs-based and determined by the youth/young adult. These actual costs of post-majority support services are provided to youth aging- out-of care up to their 26th birthday; and
First Nation Representatives services in all jurisdictions to help ensure First Nations children, youth, and families can meaningfully exercise their rights under provincial, territorial and federal child and family services laws, as well as serve in an advocacy role to uphold and strengthen these rights.

Initiative: A new Child and Family Services model designed and implemented by the Cowessess First Nation to support Cowessess First Nations' exercise of jurisdiction

Lead department(s): Indigenous Services Canada, Justice Canada
Funding: $38.7M/2 years
Description: Funding is to support Cowessess First Nations to exercise jurisdiction for their child and family services under An Act respecting First Nations, Inuit and Métis children, youth and families
Calls for Justice: 12.1, 12.2, 12.3, 12.6, 12.7, 12.11
Calls for Miskotahâ: This initiative is First Nation specific and not relevant to the Calls for Miskotaha.

Planned Milestones 2022-23

Planned for 2022-23

This funding is to support First Nations to exercise jurisdiction for their child and family services under An Act respecting First Nations, Inuit and Métis children, youth and families that came into force on January 1, 2020.
- The first-year of funding was provided to Cowessess First Nation following the signing of the agreement in July 2021, with the second year of funding being provided on April 1, 2022 in accordance with the terms of the coordination agreement.
The Act provides a path for Indigenous groups, communities, and Peoples to exercise jurisdiction in relation to First Nations, Inuit and Métis child and family services, so that they can decide what is best for their children, families and communities.
As of February 2023 four Indigenous governing bodies have signed coordination agreements to implement their Indigenous child and family services laws.
- The first was on July 6, 2021, when Cowessess First Nation hosted a traditional ceremony to sign the first coordination agreement under the Act with the Government of Canada and the Province of Saskatchewan. This agreement supports the implementation of the Miyo Pimatisowin Act and jurisdiction over their children and families, which focuses on preventative care.

Update on 2022-23

Cowessess First Nation's Fiscal Agreement currently ends on July 6th, 2023. Canada, Cowessess First Nation and the Government of Saskatchewan have been meeting since September 2022 to discuss an extension of the current fiscal agreement in place. This would allow the agreement to expire on March 31, 2024 rather than the original July 2023 date. This extension will reflect the expanded Interim Funding Framework authorities and reflect the First Nation Child and Family Services enhancements that were put into place after Cowessess First Nation had signed their agreement.

Coming up in 2023-24

In the 2023-24 fiscal year, it is expected that Cowessess First Nation will request a new 10 year Fiscal Agreement, once the extended Fiscal Agreement expires.

Planned Engagement for 2022-23

Not applicable- this is not program or initiative-based funding. This funding supports Indigenous governing bodies exercise their jurisdiction.

Update on 2022-23 Engagement

No update

Calls for Justice/Calls for Miskotahâ

The following Calls for Justice are broadly linked to the work being undertaken by the Act: Calls for Justice: 12.1, 12.2, 12.3, 12.4, 12.6, 16.6, 16.17 and Calls for Miskotahâ: 17.3, 17.4, 17.5, 17.16, 17.17, 17.19, 17.20

The act implores that Indigenous siblings should be kept together provided it is in their best interest. To achieve this objective, unless immediate apprehension is consistent with the best interests of the child, before apprehending a child who resides with one of the child's parents or another adult member of the child's family, the service provider must demonstrate that reasonable efforts were made to have the child continue to reside with that person.

The act also ensures that Indigenous children in care keep strong emotional ties with their family and stay connected to their communities and culture. For example, the act establishes an ongoing obligation to re-assess the possibility for an Indigenous foster child to reside with one of the parents or an adult member of his or her family. It also provides that when an Indigenous child is not placed with a member of his or her family, his or her attachment and emotional ties to his or her family are to be promoted.

Initiative: In addition to increased funding to implement the Act respecting First Nations, Inuit and Métis children, youth, and families, $340.8 million over ten years will flow to support a new Child and Family Services model designed by Wabaseemoong Independent Nations and to support their exercise of jurisdiction over child and family services overall starting in 2021-22

Lead department(s): Indigenous Services Canada
Funding: $340.8M/10 years
Description: This funding is to support Wabaseemoong Independent Nations to exercise jurisdiction for their child and family services under An Act respecting First Nations, Inuit and Métis children, youth and families
Calls for Justice: 12.1, 12.2, 12.3, 12.6, 12.7, 12.11
Calls for Miskotahâ: This initiative is First Nation specific and not relevant to the Calls for Miskotaha.

Planned Milestones 2022-23

Planned for 2022-23

This funding is to support these two First Nations to exercise jurisdiction for their child and family services under An Act respecting First Nations, Inuit and Métis children, youth and families that came into force on January 1, 2020.
- The first-year of funding was provided to following the signing of the agreement in March 2022, with subsequent years of funding to be provided in accordance with the terms of the coordination agreement.
The Act provides a path for Indigenous groups, communities, and Peoples to exercise jurisdiction in relation to First Nations, Inuit and Métis child and family services, so that they can decide what is best for their children, families and communities.
As of February 2023 four Indigenous governing bodies have signed coordination agreements to implement their Indigenous child and family services laws.
- The second was on March 10, 2022 when Wabaseemoong Independent Nations signed a tripartite coordination agreement with the Government of Canada and the Province of Ontario to support the implementation of their Indigenous law, the Wabaseemoong Independent Nations Customary Care Code and ceremony to commemorate this historic day
- The Wabaseemoong Independent Nations Customary Care Code provides for the protection and healing of the Wabaseemoong Independent Nations' children and families, reinforces Anishinaabe ways of life by enabling children to connect with extended family and their totems or clans and preserves the children's connection to their culture.

Coming up in 2023-24

Canada will continue to support Wabaseemoong Independent Nations to exercise jurisdiction for their child and family services under An Act respecting First Nations, Inuit and Métis children, youth and families.

Planned Engagement for 2022-23

Not applicable- this is not program or initiative-based funding. This funding supports Indigenous governing bodies exercise their jurisdiction.

Update on 2022-23 Engagement

No update.

Calls for Justice/Calls for Miskotahâ

Please see above how the act addresses Calls for Justice 12.1, 12.2, 12.3- as described above.

The work to reform the FNCFS Program and the continued implementation of early program enhancements address Calls for Justice 12.6 and 12.11.

The act stresses that Indigenous siblings should be kept together provided it is in their best interest. To achieve this objective, unless immediate apprehension is consistent with the best interests of the child, before apprehending a child who resides with one of the child's parents or another adult member of the child's family, the service provider must demonstrate that reasonable efforts were made to have the child continue to reside with that person.

Early reforms to the First Nations Child and Family Services program were implemented in April 2022. At that time, funding for prevention services was significantly increased and ISC began funding the actual costs of post-majority support services to youth aging our of care up to their 26th birthday. Funding for post-majority support services is needs based and determined by the youth/young adult. Eligible expenditures include but are not limited to, learning, educational and professional development opportunities.

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Health and Wellness

Improving the Spiritual, Physical, and Mental Health of Indigenous Women, Girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ People

Past and ongoing colonialism, racism, sexism, and discrimination have caused complex and longstanding harm to the physical, mental, and spiritual health of Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people. As a result, Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people experience disproportionately worse health outcomes compared to non-Indigenous Canadians, such as higher rates of mental health conditions, high blood pressure, arthritis, asthma, and diabetes, in addition to lower life expectancies.^{Footnote 11}

Witnesses to the National Inquiry discussed the ways that their health had been compromised by racism and inequity.^{Footnote 12} Anti-Indigenous racism in Canadian healthcare institutions has resulted in many Indigenous patients being turned away, discriminated against, or not feeling safe accessing healthcare services.

Existing barriers have prevented Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people from accessing healthcare services and, consequently, have contributed to an increased risk of violence, while and/or recovering from the trauma of violence.

Recognizing the need to address these barriers, the federal government has placed a high priority in investing in Indigenous-led healthcare services to ensure that Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people have permanent access to high quality, culturally appropriate care.

Highlights of the work undertaken in 2022-23 include:

Health Canada launched its inaugural call for proposals for its new Addressing Racism and Discrimination in Canada's Health Systems Program, which is providing support for projects that address anti-Indigenous racism in health systems, including against Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ peoples, in a way that is informed by the lived experiences of Indigenous communities.
Indigenous Services Canada completed the engagement process related to the distinctions-based Indigenous Health Legislation. Engagement was undertaken with national and regional First Nations, Inuit, and Métis organizations and governments federal partners, and provinces and territories. Intersectional groups were also engaged, including: Elders, women, youth, urban, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people. ("Intersectional", in the context of this Engagement, refers to how a person's Indigenous identity, gender identity, physical ability, socio-economic status or other personal aspects of identity may cause overlapping impacts of discrimination.) As of March 2023, 38 engagement reports have been completed.
In January 2023, Indigenous Services Canada published the national summary report,What we heard: Visions for Distinctions-based Indigenous Health Legislation.
Indigenous Services Canada established co-development tables with First Nations, Inuit, Métis, and intersectional groups. Participation in the co-development process is an opportunity to help identify a long-term vision with respect to improving the health outcomes of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis.
Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs continued to deliver funding to Self-Governing and Modern Treaty First Nations, Inuit, and Métis to support their initiatives under the Indigenous Community Infrastructure Fund.

Full details on Federal Pathway initiatives under the Health and Wellness theme can be found below.

Health and Wellness Initiatives

Initiative: Reconciliation and Strength for Indigenous Women, Girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people Through Sport–Sport for Social Development in Indigenous Communities (SSDIC) Stream Three

Lead department(s): Canadian Heritage
Funding: $14.3M/5 years and $2.9M ongoing
Description: Funding sports activity projects that seek to support one or more of the identified areas of focus drawn from the MMIWG Calls for Justice: physical and mental health; suicide prevention; sexual trafficking awareness and prevention; safe and healthy relationships; and sexual positivity (2SLGBTQI+).
Calls for Justice: 3.1, 7.3
Calls for Miskotahâ: N/A

Planned Milestones 2022-23

Planned for 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.

The engagement on the program review is expected to conclude in February of 2023, at which point an integration of all findings into the program design will take place. An open call for proposals for projects taking place in 2023-2024 will be launched concurrently in February 2023. Final reports for the Interim Process (2022-2023) projects will be received by July 2023 and will offer insight into the program's initial impacts and reach in Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQ+ communities.

Update on 2022-23

2022-2023 projects are underway in 10 Provincial/Territorial Aboriginal Sport Bodies (PTASBs) as planned.

An additional intake of the SSDIC Stream Three initiative launched February 8, 2023, for projects taking place in 2023-2024. This is an open call for proposals, $2.5M will be available to any Indigenous organization providing sport programming to Indigenous women, girls and/or 2SLGBTQI+ peoples.

Coming up in 2023-24

Due to the late approval of Budget 2021 funds, the $2.5M for 2021-2022 was reprofiled to 2023-2024 ($1.25M) and 2024-2025 ($1.25M). For 2023-2024, the $1.25M will be available to the Provincial/Territorial Aboriginal Sport Bodies (PTASBs) to deliver/continue Stream Three projects in their jurisdictions.

Planned Engagement for 2022-23

National and Regional/community-based partners

Canadian Heritage, facilitated by an Indigenous consultant firm, will be seeking engagement with national stakeholders such as the Aboriginal Sport Circle, National Indigenous Organizations, as well as National Indigenous Women's Organizations.

Regional and community-based partners

The SSDIC Stream Three program review and consultation will engage Provincial/Territorial Aboriginal Sport Bodies, and will gather the perspectives, feedback, and input from Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ representative organizations on how this initiative can best serve their self-identified social development outcomes and goals pertaining to the MMIWG Calls for Justice.

Update on 2022-23 Engagement

Sport Canada is currently undertaking a consultation process led by an independent Indigenous researcher to review all aspects of the Sport for Social Development in Indigenous Communities initiative, with a specific focus on the design and delivery of all three streams, including the eligibility and funding distribution of Stream Three. Due to unavoidable delays in the procurement process, the program review commenced later than anticipated in November 2022. Engagement sessions are now complete, and a thorough analysis of the findings is underway. The recommendations on program design and delivery will be integrated ahead of the next call for applications in the Fall of 2023 for projects taking place in 2024-25 and beyond.

Calls for Justice/Calls for Miskotahâ

SSDIC Stream Three links to Call for Justice 3.1 by exclusively providing funding for Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ 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.

Initiative: Addressing Anti-Indigenous Racism in Canada's Health Systems

Lead Department(s): Indigenous Services Canada, Health Canada
Funding: $111.8M/3 years (ISC); $14.9M/3 years (HC)
Description: Taking action to foster health systems free from racism and discrimination where Indigenous Peoples are respected and safe. This funding will support Indigenous-led community and regional initiatives that aim to strengthen cultural safety and address systemic racism in health systems as well as support capacity development to enable Indigenous partners to engage on their health priorities.
Calls for Justice: 1.8, 3.2, 3.4, 7.4, 7.6, 7.7
Calls for Miskotahâ: 6, 19

Planned Milestones 2022-23

Indigenous Services Canada

Planned for 2022-23

The Government of Canada will provide year 2 of federal leadership and funding to continue bringing together all partners in order to advance concrete actions in addressing anti-Indigenous racism in Canada's health systems and to lead by example through the evaluation and improvement our own programs and practices. This includes continued national and regional dialogues as well as internal evaluation of ISC programming.

In addition, ISC will provide continued funding to First Nations, Inuit, Métis organizations and governments, as well as to other Indigenous groups (women, youth, 2SLGBTQQIA+, urban) to improve access to culturally safe services, adapt health systems, improve supports and accountability and engage in national and regional dialogues as Year 2 of the funding is allocated and disseminated to agreement holders.

A national dialogue on data & accountability is planned for January 2023. In addition regional and thematic roundtables may start in Q4 of 2022-23 or in Q1 of 2023-24 (e.g., for LGBTQ2S+, mental health, youth and knowledge keepers and Elders).

Update on 2022-23

Year 2 of funds were flowed to partners including grassroots, regional and national Indigenous organizations. Approximately 148 projects have been supported with these funds and span a variety of activities involving cultural safety, health systems navigation, patient advocacy, targeted data collection, midwifery and doula services, and increasing Indigenous representation in health and human resources.

The National Dialogue on Data to address anti-Indigenous racism in health systems was held from January 24th to 26th and brought together subject matter experts, national Indigenous organizations, Indigenous health professional organizations, pan-Canadian health organizations, regional Indigenous organizations and federal and provincial/territorial government representatives Topics of discussion included priorities for collecting data; existing frameworks for data collection and measurement; identifying gaps; guiding principles; and respectful approaches to the governance of Indigenous data to uphold principles of Indigenous data sovereignty. A summary report is expected by mid-March 2023.

Coming up in 2023-24

The final year of funding is expected to flow to existing projects.

Work towards a longer-term strategy and preparation for a return to Cabinet is expected (targeting Fall 2023)

Internal evaluation of ISC programming as it relates to anti-Indigenous racism will be completed in 2023-24 in preparation for the return to Cabinet.

Health Canada

Planned for 2022-23

Health Canada will continue to provide federal leadership to address systemic racism and eliminate barriers to accessing services within health systems. This includes launching the inaugural Call for Proposals for its new Addressing Racism and Discrimination in Canada's Health Systems Program (the Program).

Update on 2022-23

Health Canada established its new Program, which has two distinct streams of funding. The Project Stream provides contribution funding for projects that address systemic racism and discrimination in Canada's health systems in a way that is informed by the lived experiences of Indigenous, racialized, and marginalized communities. The Project Stream's inaugural open Call for Proposals launched on April 6, 2022, and closed on May 25, 2022, targeting proposals addressing anti-Indigenous racism, with priority given to projects that aim to develop and implement cultural safety training, curriculum and/or accreditation requirements, and projects that aim to integrate culturally safe care into acute care settings and traditional approaches to health. As of March 2023, 15 successful applicants have been selected for funding.

The Program's Engagement Stream, which supports capacity development for Indigenous organizations to meaningfully engage on their health priorities, launched a targeted solicitation process in August 2022. Five National Indigenous Organizations have been selected to receive funding to engage on one of the following health priorities: Primary and Virtual Care; Mental Health and Substance Use; Data and Digital Health; Long-Term Care and Supportive Care; Health Human Resources; and Dental Care.

Coming up in 2023-24

Health Canada will deliver the second year of funding to successful Program applicants and begin to monitor performance and collect progress data from recipients. Health Canada will continue its work to build relationships and engage with National Indigenous Organizations on shared health priorities.

Planned Engagement for 2022-23

Indigenous Services Canada

National partners

Pan-Canadian Health Organizations, national Indigenous health professional organizations, and National Indigenous Organizations, as well as other Indigenous organizations, health systems partners, and educational institutions.

Regional and community-based partners

Provincial/Territorial Government representatives, regional/community-based health system partners, Indigenous governments and communities.

Health Canada

National partners

Pan-Canadian Health Organizations and national health system partners; National Indigenous Organizations; and national Indigenous health system partners.

Regional and community-based partners

Provincial/Territorial governments; Indigenous governments, organizations and communities; regional and community-based health system partners; and educational institutions.

Update on 2022-23 Engagement

National partners

Pan-Canadian Health Organizations and national health system partners; National Indigenous Organizations; and national Indigenous health system partners.

Regional and community-based partners

Provincial/Territorial governments; Indigenous governments, organizations and communities; regional and community-based health system partners; and educational institutions.

Update on 2022-23 Engagement

Health Canada will continue its work to build relationships and engage with National Indigenous Organizations on shared health priorities.

The National Dialogue on Data, which took place January 24-26, 2023, provided an opportunity to connect and collaborate with national and regional and community-based partners. The summary report to be delivered mid-March 2023, in conjunction with ongoing partner engagement, will help to inform next steps and future policy priorities.

The Anti-Indigenous Racism Advisory Circle met bi-weekly throughout the year. Members include Indigenous health professional organizations, National Indigenous Organizations, health systems partners and some PTs. The meetings have been used as a space to engage partners informally on key aspects of the Anti-Indigenous Racism in health systems file, and as a space for partners to share resources, ongoing work, mentor each other, and to work together on creating change.

Calls for Justice/Calls for Miskotahâ

Indigenous Services Canada

Budget 2021 provided $126.7M over three years to improve access to high quality and culturally safe services, including those for Indigenous women and girls, 2SLGBTQQIA+ peoples, people with disabilities and other marginalized groups who are disproportionately impacted by anti-Indigenous racism. (Calls for Justice 3.2, 3.4, 7.4; Call for Miskotahâ 6)

Budget 2021's anti-Indigenous racism initiative provided $350k to the following Indigenous organizations: Native Women's Association of Canada (NWAC); Les Femmes Michif Otipemisiwak (LFMO); and Pauktuutit. The funding supports the organizations to address Indigenous women's health and anti-Indigenous racism issues, to advance policy development work on issues such as: forced and coerced sterilization, ISC's cultural competence and GBA+ work, cultural and patient safety in health systems, and in ensuring women's voices and perspectives are included in policy development. Further, $2.1M was provided through Budget 2021 to expand support for existing Indigenous midwifery projects and proposals.

Capacity funding was also provided for National Indigenous Women's organizations and regional and grassroots organizations, including the Native Women's Association of Canada (NWAC); Les Femmes Michif Otipemisiwak (LFMO); and Pauktuutit Inuit Women of Canada and for the strengthening of youth sexual health networks (Call for Justice 1.8).

Finally, ISC has provided $2M to fund increased Indigenous representation in health professions and capacity support for national Indigenous health organizations, including the Indigenous Physicians Association of Canada, Canadian Indigenous Nurses Association, National Aboriginal Council of Midwives, First Nations Health Managers Association, Indigenous Dental Association of Canada, and Indigenous Pharmacy Professionals of Canada (Call for Justice 7.7).

Health Canada

Health Canada's new Program is funding systems-level, community-supported projects that address racism and discrimination perpetrated against Indigenous Peoples, including women, girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ peoples, in a way that is informed by their lived experiences (Calls for Justice 3.2, 7.1). Some successful applicants are receiving funding to implement cultural safety training, curriculum, or accreditation requirements for health service providers to increase their ability to provide culturally safe and inclusive health services (Call for Justice 7.6, Call for Miskotahâ 19), including several Indigenous organizations, such as First Peoples Wellness Circle, Aboriginal Friendship Centre of Saskatchewan, Victoria Native Friendship Centre, as well as academic institutions and health system partners. Some projects are centering the voices and needs of Indigenous women, such as the Ontario Native Women's Association's project to pilot an Indigenous women's health curriculum. Other projects are implementing culturally safe care into acute care settings and traditional approaches to health (Calls for Justice 7.4, 7.7; Calls for Miskotahâ 56, 57), including the Yukon Hospital's project to increase Indigenous representation in acute care centres and the Canadian Indigenous Nurses Association's project to create an Indigenous Nursing Knowledge Model.

Health Canada's Program is also providing funding to five National Indigenous Organizations, including the Native Women's Association of Canada and Les Femmes Michif Otipemisiwak, to build their capacity to engage on a variety of health priorities.

Initiative: Comprehensive Approach to Mental Wellness

Lead Department(s): Indigenous Services Canada
Funding: $597.6M/3 years (B2021); $107.2M in 2021-22 (August 2021); $227.6M / 2 years (B2022)
Description: Within the context of a distinctions-based mental health and wellness strategies, this funding ensures continued access to the Indian Residential Schools Resolution Health Supports Program and National IRS crisis line, which provides trauma-informed supports for Survivors of Indian Residential Schools and their family members. This investment will continue to build community-based supports and capacity, and support workforce development.
Calls for Justice: 3.2, 3.3, 3.4, 3.7, 7.2, 7.3, 17.4
Calls for Miskotahâ: 53

Planned Milestones 2022-23

Planned for 2022-23

Continued support for the national 24/7 MMIWG crisis line offering immediate emotional assistance to any individual impacted by the issue of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls.
Through Budget 2022, the Government of Canada is providing an additional $227.6 million over two years to maintain trauma-informed, culturally-appropriate, Indigenous-led services to improve mental wellness, and to support efforts initiated through Budget 2021 for distinctions-based mental health and wellness strategies. This will provide continued access to trauma-informed cultural and emotional support services and mental health counselling for Survivors of Indian Residential Schools and their family members, Survivors of Indian Day Schools and their family members, and Survivors, family members, and others impacted by the issue of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls.

Update on 2022-23

The national 24/7 MMIWG crisis line offered immediate emotional assistance to individuals impacted by the issue of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls and received 375 calls between April 1, 2022 and January 31, 2023.
Budget 2021 provided $8.5M in annual funding to ensure access to health and cultural support services for all those impacted by the issue of missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people. The Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls Health and Cultural Support Program continues to mirror the Indian Residential Schools Resolution Health Support Program ($88.1M in 2022-23) and the Federal Indian Day Schools Health and Cultural Support Program ($10.7M in 2022-23) which also support people impacted by intersectional experiences with colonial sources of trauma, including missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people, Indian Residential Schools, Federal Indian Day Schools, and others.
Budget 2021, delivered $7.4M, and Budget 2022 an additional $227.6M ($113.8M in 2022-23) to renew expanded trauma-informed health and cultural support services and $15M/2 years to support the implementation of partner priorities on mental wellness.

Coming up in 2023-24

Continue access to immediate support through the MMIWG Crisis Line and the IRS Crisis Line (funded until March 2024), and the Hope for Wellness Help Line.
Continue to support access to trauma-informed health and cultural support services through the Indian Residential Schools Resolution Health Support Program ($88.1M for 2023-24), the Indian Day Schools Health and Cultural Support Program ($10.7M for 2023-24), and the MMIWG Health and Cultural Support Program ($8.5M for 2023-24). Each of these programs is funded until March 2024.

Planned Engagement for 2022-23

National Partners. Regional and Community-Based Partners

Emotional and cultural supports are delivered through a network of over 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.

Update on 2022-23 Engagement

Ongoing engagement with NIOs, and organizations representing urban Indigenous, Métis, Indigenous women, 2SLGBTQQIA+, and Indigenous youth to support better access to community-based cultural and emotional support services to address intergenerational trauma.

Calls for Justice/Calls for Miskotahâ

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.

Initiative: Co-development of Distinctions-Based Indigenous Health Legislation

Lead department(s): Indigenous Services Canada
Funding: $15.6M/2 years (FES 2020)
Description: Working collaboratively with national and regional First Nations, Inuit, and Métis organizations and governments, intersectional groups, federal partners, as well as provinces and territories to co-develop distinctions-based Indigenous health legislation that supports the vision expressed through various federal commitments, and that sets the stage for high-quality, culturally relevant health care for all Indigenous Peoples.
Calls for Justice: 3.1, 3.2, 3.6
Calls for Miskotahâ: 9c, 53, 56, 57

Planned Milestones 2022-23

Planned for 2022-23

Q1: Secure extension for the co-development of distinction-based Indigenous health legislation with a target to introduce a bill in Parliament in winter 2024.
Q1: Communicate extended timelines to Indigenous partners and amend contribution agreements where needed.
Q2: Establish co-analysis approach with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis partners to summarize engagement findings.
Q2: Conclude the engagement phase and develop a national-level What We Heard summary report based on engagement reports received from First Nations, Inuit, Métis, and intersectional partners. Establish distinctions-based processes for the co-development of legislative options. Establish an ongoing federal-provincial-territorial dialogue on federal distinctions-based Indigenous health legislation.
Q3: Begin the process to co-develop legislative options with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Nation partners, as well as provinces and territories.
Q4: Look to finalize co-developed legislative options with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Nation partners.

Update on 2022-23

The majority of Q1 and Q2 deliverables have been completed.
In January 2023, the national summary report, What we heard: Visions for Distinctions-based Indigenous Health Legislation, became publicly available.
As of mid-Q4, work continues to establish distinctions-based processes for co-development. ISC currently has a co-development table with Inuit partners. Two regional First Nations tables have launched and planning discussions are underway with all other interested First Nation, Métis, and Intersectional partners.

Coming up in 2023-24

Finalize co-development of legislative options with partners.
Justice will draft the proposed bill, with ISC instruction and involvement; ISC will consult First Nations, Inuit, Métis, and Intersectional partners, inclusive of PTs as appropriate.
Introduce bill in Winter 2024.

Planned Engagement for 2022-23

Engagement partners (national, regional, and community-based)

National First Nations, Inuit, and Métis organizations
Regional First Nations, Inuit, and Métis organizations and governments
Self-Governing and Modern-Treaty Holders
Indigenous Women, urban, youth, 2SLGBTQQIA+ organizations (intersectional groups)
Indigenous Health Professional Associations
Provinces and Territories
Outreach to academics, legal scholars, and knowledge keepers
Outreach to the general public

Engagement details

As of Q2 2022-23, approximately 27 engagement reports have been received (45 anticipated in total).
Themes emerging from the engagement reports received to date align with the recommendations of MMIWG, UNDRIP, and TRC, including:
- Ensuring a "w"holistic approach to health, inclusive of Indigenous determinants of health;
- Improving access to culturally-relevant health care services regardless of location (e.g. urban, remote & isolated, etc.);
- Addressing racism and discrimination in care;
- Addressing critical gaps in care; and
- Respecting Indigenous Peoples as Sovereign Nations, etc.

Update on 2022-23 Engagement

The engagement process wrapped up in Fall 2022.
As of Q4 2022-23, approximately 38 engagement reports have been received (45 anticipated total).
In January 2023, input received from partners was summarized to create the national summary report, What we heard: Visions for Distinctions-based Indigenous Health Legislation. This report is now publicly available and was distributed to partners and P/Ts.
Efforts are underway to establish federal-provincial-territorial-Indigenous dialogue opportunities for multilateral forums and collaboration.

Calls for Justice/Calls for Miskotahâ

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 to 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).

Initiative: Improving access to safe, clean drinking water in First Nation communities

Lead department(s): Indigenous Services Canada
Funding:

FES 2020: $1.5B / 6 years and $114.1M ongoing
B21: $1.1B / 2 years (2022-23 to 2023-24)
B22: $247M / 2 years (2022-23 and 2023-24)

Description: Ensuring access to safe clean drinking water for First Nations communities on reserve.
Calls for Justice: 4.1
Calls for Miskotahâ: N/A

Planned Milestones 2022-23

Planned for 2022-23

Investments include combined commitments proposed in Budget 2022 and made in Budget 2021, 2020 Fall Economic Statement, and Budget 2019.
Budget 2022 committed $398 million over two years, starting in 2022-23, to support community infrastructure on reserve, of which at least $247 million will be directed toward water and wastewater infrastructure.
This will support the completion of water and wastewater projects to ensure the lifting of long-term drinking water advisories and short-term drinking water advisories from public systems on reserve, and furthers sustainable access to clean drinking water on reserve.
Budget 2022 also announced 10 years of funding for the transfer of water and wastewater services in 17 communities to the Atlantic First Nations Water Authority.
The Department launched a call for proposals on March 2, 2022 (Q1), to enhance capacity support for water and wastewater operators in 2022-23 and 2023-24. This call for proposals may provide recipients with up to $500,000 in funding to support new or expanded capacity building initiatives. The initiative includes a focus on empowering women and youth in water operations, and creating safe working environments for 2SLGBTQQIA+ people as well as to empower women and youth, integrate and promote traditional water teachings with water science, and further safe working environments for 2SLGBTQQIA+ people.

Update on 2022-23

Significant and continued investments have been made to support water and wastewater systems.
ISC has increased operations and maintenance (O&M) funding support to First Nations for water and wastewater infrastructure to cover 100% of the O&M funding formula, up from 80%. The updated formula better accounts for O&M costs, and includes new funding to support operators directly (salary, retention, and back-up support).
ISC continues to support First Nations in addressing the remaining drinking water advisories. As of February 28, 2023, in 2022-23, First Nations lifted 7 long-term drinking water advisories from public systems on reserve. Moreover, 28 short-term advisories have been lifted thereby not becoming long-term advisories. Additional initiatives are underway in 28 communities to resolve the remaining 32 long-term drinking water advisories.
The Department is supporting initiatives to engage and empower women, two-spirited, and gender-diverse peoples on water issues and in water operations. Funding support was provided to the Native Women's Association of Canada to conduct traditional Sharing Circles and amplify the voices of water protectors and water carriers. The Department also supported a one-year pilot project with Clan Mothers Healing Village, which will offer trauma survivors training to become certified water operators as well as wraparound support throughout the training process.
ISC and the Atlantic First Nations Water Authority signed a Service Delivery Transfer Agreement in January 2023. The Water Authority is now responsible for the delivery of water and wastewater services for 9 communities in the Atlantic Region.

Coming up in 2023-24

In 2023-24, ISC will support First Nations in ensuring sustainable access to clean water and wastewater treatment in First Nations communities. These investments include combined commitments made in Budget 2022 and Budget 2021, as well as in the 2020 Fall Economic Statement and Budget 2019 which committed ongoing operations and management funding increases. The Department will continue its work in engaging and empowering youth, women, and 2SLGBTQQA+ peoples on clean water.

Planned Engagement for 2022-23

National and Regional/Community-Based Partners

Communities are allocated funds to resource safe, clean drinking water. ISC continues to work with community-based partners as well as regional and national partner organizations to advance work related to women youth and operators in First Nations communities.

The 2013 Safe Drinking Water for First Nations Act was repealed on June 23, 2022. ISC is working with the Assembly of First Nations, First Nations, and First Nations organizations to inform the development of new proposed legislation to replace the 2013 Safe Drinking Water for First Nations Act.

On February 17, 2023, a consultation draft of the proposed Bill was shared with First Nation rights holders and First Nation organizations to support community review and consideration of the proposed legislation prior to introduction in the Parliament of Canada.

Update on 2022-23 Engagement

ISC has transferred funding to recipients – including First Nations, Tribal Councils, and other partner organizations – to advance the capacity building projects from the call for proposals. This work will continue into 2023-24.
ISC will continue to build relationships and work closely with Indigenous organizations, partner organizations, First Nations, and Tribal Councils on capacity building initiatives and support measures for water operators.
ISC has been, and will continue, to work closely with First Nations and First Nations organizations on the introduction and implementation of new proposed First Nations water legislation.

Calls for Justice/Calls for Miskotahâ

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.

Initiative: Co-development of Infrastructure Plans

Lead department(s): Indigenous Services Canada
Funding: $25.9M/2 years
Description: Closing the infrastructure gap in Indigenous communities by supporting the co-development of infrastructure plans with Indigenous partners, which will help pave the way to address critical infrastructure needs in First Nations, Inuit and Métis Nation communities.
Calls for Justice: 4.1, 4.6, 4.7, 4.8, 13.5, 16.5, 16.7
Calls for Miskotahâ: N/A

Planned Milestones 2022-23

Planned for 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 August 2022: Engage communities and obtain lists of new infrastructure assets and repairs to existing assets needed to close the infrastructure gap by 2030. (Q1)
July to October 2022: In-depth analysis and costing of requests submitted by communities. (Q1 – Q2)

Update on 2022-23

ISC engaged with First Nations and obtained lists of new infrastructure assets and repairs to existing assets needed to close the infrastructure gap by 2030. 405/564 (72%) of First Nations provided lists to ISC. ISC then analyzed and costed the requests submitted by First Nations. This exercise estimated the cost of closing the First Nations infrastructure gap by 2030 to be $187 billion.

Coming up in 2023-24

The $25.9 million in engagement and co-development funding ends in FY 2022-23.

Planned Engagement for 2022-23

National and Regional/Community-based Partners

Indigenous Services Canada and Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada are working closely with Indigenous organizations and communities to support the completion of community infrastructure plans, which is a crucial step towards addressing the infrastructure gap.

Update on 2022-23 Engagement

First Nations: ISC engaged with the Assembly of First Nations (AFN) who developed their own costing report of the First Nations infrastructure gap. This included but was not limited to the total cost of the assets identified by First Nations in the ISC exercise. The AFN estimated the total cost of the First Nations infrastructure gap to be $349.2 billion.
Through direct engagement, ISC reached out to 564 First Nations communities to discuss their infrastructure needs. To date, 405 First Nations have provided feedback to ISC on the infrastructure required in their communities.
Inuit: ISC engaged with Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami (ITK) who worked with the four Inuit regional Land Claims Organizations and submitted a report outlining priority infrastructure projects in Inuit Nunangat. ITK estimated that $55.3 billion over 10 years and $793.7 million annually would be required to support projects in the areas of connections, energy and environment, and peoples and communities.
Métis: CIRNAC conducted engagement with the Métis National Council (MNC) and Manitoba Métis Federation (MMF) who identified infrastructure needs in their pre-Budget submissions. The MNC identified immediate infrastructure investment needs of $2.41 billion over 6 years while the MMF identified immediate investment needs of $299.2 million over 10 years.

Calls for Justice/Calls for Miskotahâ

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 Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities. ISC also is working with Indigenous Partners to ensure that a GBA Plus 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.

Initiative: Indigenous Community Infrastructure Fund – Funding for First Nations and funding for Urban Indigenous Peoples

Lead Department(s): Indigenous Services Canada
Funding:
First Nations on reserves: $2.83 billion over 4 years
Urban Component: $200 million over 4 years
Description: The Indigenous Community Infrastructure Fund supports immediate demands, as prioritized by Indigenous partners, with shovel ready infrastructure projects for First Nations, including those with modern treaty and self-governing First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Nation communities.
Calls for Justice: 4.6, 4.7, 13.5
Calls for Miskotahâ: N/A

Planned Milestones 2022-23

Coming up in 2022-23

Continued funding and implementation of shovel-ready projects for housing, education facilities and health infrastructure for First Nations on reserve.
Funding and implementation under ICIF for water and wastewater projects begins in 2022-23.
Indigenous Community Infrastructure Fund, Urban Component: launch of a call for proposals process (deadline December 30, 2022) for 2023-24 and 2024-25 urban component underway to support immediate infrastructure needs of urban and rural Indigenous service delivery organizations.

Update on 2022-23

As of December 31, 2022, out of the $2.90 billion of ICIF targeted funding committed (excluding operating expenses), ISC has invested $912 million, including:
- $188.7 million spent under Water and Wastewater;
- $326.4 million spent under Housing;
- $328.3 million spent under School Facilities;
- $32.6 million spent under Health;
- $8.3 million spent under Other Community Infrastructure;
- $9 million spent under Transfer of Service Delivery;
- $88.5 million spent under Urban Infrastructure.

ISC is on target to meet the 2022-23 ICIF commitment of ($1.0B excluding operating expenses)

Continued funding and implementation of shovel-ready projects for housing, education facilities and health infrastructure for First Nations on reserve. As of December 31, 2022, ICIF has supported 894 total projects of which 108 are completed and 786 are ongoing.
Funding and implementation under ICIF for water and wastewater projects began in 2022-23. As of December 31, 2022, 89 water and wastewater projects had received investment from the ICIF. 6 of which are completed and 83 are still ongoing.
Urban Programming for Indigenous Peoples: launch of a call for proposals process (deadline December 30, 2022) for 2023-24 and 2024-25 urban component funding to support immediate infrastructure needs of urban and rural Indigenous service delivery organizations.

Coming up in 2023-24

The ICIF urban component open call for proposals closed on December 30, 2022 for 2023-2025 funding. Over 150 proposals were received which are currently being assessed for funding recommendations.
ISC program partners will work with regional offices to support shovel-ready projects through the allocation of 2023-24 committed ICIF funds of:
- $494.6 million under Water and Wastewater;
- $201.2 million under Housing (including 8M for subdivisions);
- $193 million under School Facilities;
- $87.8 million under Health;
- $14.5 million under Transfer of Service Delivery;
- $88.5 million under Urban Infrastructure

Planned Engagement for 2022-23

National and Regional/Community-Based Partners

ISC will work closely with Indigenous partners on a distinctions basis to support implementation of this funding (First Nations on reserve and urban and rural Indigenous service delivery organizations.) The department will draw on past engagement and co-development which informed the Budget 2021 requests. ISC will also work with all other relevant federal departments to support a whole-of-government approach to addressing Indigenous infrastructure needs.

Update on 2022-23 Engagement

ISC and CIRNAC continue to work closely with Indigenous partners on a distinctions basis to support implementation of the ICIF 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 are leveraging past engagement and co-development strategies. ISC and CIRNAC are working with other relevant federal departments to support a whole-of-government approach to addressing Indigenous infrastructure needs.

Calls for Justice/Calls for Miskotahâ

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 First Nations and Urban 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.

Initiative: Indigenous Community Infrastructure Fund – Funding for Inuit

Lead Department(s): Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs
Funding: $517.8M/4 years
Description: The Indigenous Community Infrastructure Fund supports immediate demands, as prioritized by Indigenous partners, with shovel ready infrastructure projects for First Nations, including those with modern treaty and self-governing First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Nation communities.
Calls for Justice: 4.6, 4.7, 13.5
Calls for Miskotahâ: N/A

Planned Milestones 2022-23

Indigenous Community Infrastructure Fund – Inuit

Budget 2021 announced new distinctions-based funding through the Indigenous Community Infrastructure Fund (ICIF). The ICIF provides funding for Inuit to drive self-determined solutions for improving Inuit infrastructure outcomes and begin closing the infrastructure gap in Inuit Nunangat and set the stage for future success associated with any further infrastructure investments. A total of $517.8 million in ICIF funding will be delivered as a grant funding to regional Inuit land claims organizations and governments and prioritized based on decisions by Inuit.

Inuit partners will deliver a number of key priority projects and increase planning and delivery capacity and readiness to ensure success for the ICIF investments as well as for any future infrastructure investments. This will be key given the significant challenges faced in remote Arctic communities to develop infrastructure.

Inuit partners, through established governance structures and accountability measures, report to their constituents on results associated with programs they deliver. In some cases, organizations are establishing specific strategies to govern their infrastructure development.

Planned Engagement for 2022-23

No update.

Calls for Justice/Calls for Miskotahâ

No update.

Initiative: Indigenous Community Infrastructure Fund – Funding for Métis

Lead Department(s): Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs
Funding: $240M/4 years
Description: The Indigenous Community Infrastructure Fund supports immediate demands, as prioritized by Indigenous partners, with shovel ready infrastructure projects for First Nations, including those with modern treaty and self-governing First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Nation communities.
Calls for Justice: 4.6, 4.7, 13.5
Calls for Miskotahâ: N/A

Planned Milestones 2022-23

Indigenous Community Infrastructure Fund – Métis

Métis Governments have demonstrated notable increase in capacity related to building activities and in management the ICIF funded projects.

The Métis governments are responsible for reporting and are accountable to their citizens to deliver projects that meet citizen's needs. The department is assisting in this process with regular meetings and follow up to ensure funding is directed toward projects that were identified in their submitted proposal for infrastructure shovel ready projects.

Similarly to Inuit and First Nations, many Métis communities are located in remote, rural and difficult to access areas. Funding allocated under ICIF would help in addressing these physical obstacles, including the building of better roads, bridges as well as social and cultural community buildings for the benefits of their citizens.

Planned Engagement for 2022-23

Métis Governments received funding from CIRNAC to engage with their citizens for the purpose of developing a fulsome definition of critical infrastructure, needs, as well as costing.

CIRNAC assists the Governing members through the PBM window where senior management and Métis leaders exchange their views and updates on projects funded by the ICIF. For other Métis Governments (MMF and MSGC), that are not represented by MNC, CIRNAC engages with them bilaterally for the same purposes.

Calls for Justice/Calls for Miskotahâ

The ICIF 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 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. Métis partners have received funding allocations for 2021-22 and 2022-23 fiscal years, with eligible social infrastructure projects including community health centres, addictions treatment facilities, and early learning and child care centres.

The infrastructure projects supported by the ICIF 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.

Initiative: Indigenous Community Infrastructure Fund – Funding for Self-Government and Modern Treaty First Nations

Lead Department(s): Indigenous Services Canada, Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs
Funding: $520.6M/4 years
Description: The Indigenous Community Infrastructure Fund supports immediate demands, as prioritized by Indigenous partners, with shovel ready infrastructure projects for First Nations, including those with modern treaty and self-governing First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Nation communities.
Calls for Justice: 4.6, 4.7, 13.5
Calls for Miskotahâ: N/A

Planned Milestones 2022-23

Planned for 2022-23

Continued funding provided to Self-Governing and Modern Treaty First Nations through their fiscal agreements.

Update on 2022-23 Funding was provided to all Self-Governing and Modern Treaty First Nations through their fiscal agreements.

Coming up in 2023-24 Continued funding provided to Self-Governing and Modern Treaty First Nations through their fiscal agreements.

Planned Engagement for 2022-23

National and Regional/Community-Based Partners

CIRNAC will continue to work with Self-Government and Modern Treaty First Nations through the Collaborative Fiscal Policy Development Process and other engagement tables to support Indigenous partners in addressing infrastructure needs. (Q1-Q4)

Update on 2022-23 Engagement

Calls for Justice/Calls for Miskotahâ

Funding for the Indigenous Community Infrastructure Fund for Self-Governing and Modern Treaty First Nations is grant-based and designed to maximize flexibility in order to meet community priorities. Self-Governing and Modern Treaty First Nations may choose to allocate funding from this initiative to support a variety of projects including housing, shelters and transitional housing, and supportive infrastructure for policing, social services, and health services. This may have a positive impact on Calls for Justice 4.6, 4.7, and 13.5.

Initiative: Indigenous Community Infrastructure Fund – Northern First Nations off-reserve without Modern Treaties or Self-Government Agreements in the Northwest Territories and Métis Communities in the NWT

Lead Department(s): Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs
Funding:
Description: The Indigenous Community Infrastructure Fund supports immediate demands, as prioritized by Indigenous partners, with shovel ready infrastructure projects for Métis living in northern regions of the country.
Calls for Justice: 4.6, 4.7
Calls for Miskotahâ: N/A

Planned Milestones 2022-23

Planned for 2022-23

Continue to provide funding to First Nations without modern treaty and Métis communities in the NWT.

Update on 2022-23

Funding was provided to all First Nations off-reserve without Modern Treaties or Self-Government Agreements and Métis Communities in the Northwest Territories.

Coming up in 2023-24

Continued funding as per Budget 2022 will be provided to all First Nations off-reserve without Modern Treaties or Self-Government Agreements and Métis Communities in the Northwest Territories.

Planned Engagement for 2022-23

Update on 2022-23 Engagement

No engagement is planned for 2022-23

Calls for Justice/Calls for Miskotahâ

4.6: Funding provided through this initiative will directly support new construction and maintenance on existing housing needs for First Nations off-reserve without Modern Treaties or Self-Government Agreements and Métis Communities in the Northwest Territories in accordance with community priorities.

4.7: First Nations off-reserve without Modern Treaties or Self-Government Agreements and Métis Communities in the Northwest Territories may choose to allocate funding from this initiative to support shelters, transitional housing, and second-stage housing. Decisions on how funding is spent are determined directly by Self-Governing and Modern Treaty First Nations.

Initiative: Support for the Wellbeing of Families and Survivors of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ People

Lead department(s): Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs
Funding: $12.5M/5 years and $2.5M ongoing
Description: Supporting the wellbeing and healing journeys of families and survivors across Canada through project-based funding, provided through an annual Call for Proposals. The evaluation process for proposals could include collaboration with the National Family and Survivor Circle in future calls for proposals.
Calls for Justice: 3.7, 5.6, 17.20
Calls for Miskotahâ: 20

Planned Milestones 2022-23

Planned for 2022-23

Q1: Continued funding provided to organizations for multi-year projects from 2020/21.Development of approach to 2022-23 Call for Proposals, given budget constraints. Confirmation of any additional funding. Limited, targeted launch under consideration.
Q2: Targeted launch (pending confirmation) of 2022-23 CfP. Confirmation of recipients and drafting of new amendments.
Q3: Funding flowed.
Q4: Carry over arrangements, reporting, and preparation for 2023-24 launch. Consideration of new B2023 proposal, if no additional funding confirmed.

Update on 2022-23

In 2022-23, the MMIWG Secretariat continued to provide funding to organizations for multi-year projects from the 2021-22 Call for Proposals, and approved 14 projects for funding through a new Call for Proposals.

Coming up in 2023-24

Q1: Continued funding provided to organizations for multi-year projects from 2022-2023 Call for Proposals. 2023-24 Call for Proposals to launch.
Q2: Confirmation of recipients and drafting of new agreements.
Q3: Funding flowed.
Q4: Carry over arrangements, reporting, and preparation for 2024-25 Call for Proposals.

Planned Engagement for 2022-23

National Partners

National Family and Survivors Circle (for design of program (for program review)

Regional and Community-Based Partners

For implementation: Indigenous grassroots groups, non-profit organizations, communities etc.

Calls for Justice/Calls for Miskotahâ

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 MMIWG 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.

Initiative: Distinctions-Based Mental Wellness Strategies

Lead department(s): Indigenous Services Canada
Funding: $227.6M/2 years, starting in 2022-23
Description: Budget 2022 investments will serve to maintain the expanded community-based cultural and emotional support services related to the legacy of residential schools and will include an allocation specific to urban and Métis organizations. Further, Budget 2022 investments will support the implementation of partner priorities on mental wellness, with a specific allocation to address the unique mental wellness needs of Indigenous women, children and youth, 2SLGBTQQIA+ individuals, and other sub-populations with unique needs. Budget 2022 investments will also support the continued Inuit-led implementation of the National Inuit Suicide Prevention Strategy (NISPS).
Calls for Justice: (Calls for Justice 3.2, 3.3, 3.4, 3.5, 3.6, 3.7, 7.2, 7.3, 7.5, 7.7, 17.4)
Calls for Miskotahâ: 53

Planned Milestones 2022-23

Planned for 2022-23

No quarterly breakdown of milestones, as this funding is entirely Gs and Cs
Continue to support expanded access to trauma-informed cultural and emotional supports for all Indigenous people ($100.6M/ year through B2022)
A distinctions-based National Summit on Indigenous Mental Wellness was organized in September 2022, hosted by the Minister of Indigenous Services and Minister of Mental Health. Focus of dialogue was on front-line perspectives, integrated care, cross-sectoral collaboration and sharing of best practices.

Update on 2022-23

Continued to roll out funding to support expanded access to trauma-informed cultural and emotional supports for all Indigenous people, with an emphasis on supporting improved access for those impacted by investigations and announcements of unmarked burials, 2SLGBTQQIA+ individuals, urban Indigenous, children and youth, and those impacted by the 60s scoop.

Coming up in 2023-24

Continue to support expanded access to trauma-informed health and cultural support services. The Expanded Trauma-Informed Health and Cultural Support Program is funded until March 2024.
In partnership with the National Centre of Truth and Reconciliation, planning an August 2023 National Gathering for Resolution Health Support Workers and Survivors of Indian Residential Schools to honour the work of the Resolution Health Support Worker workforce, and offer opportunities for networking and skills building.
In partnership with First Peoples Wellness Centre, planning a for Resolution Health Support Workers focusing on workforce wellness, and offering opportunities for skills building and networking.

Planned Engagement for 2022-23

The MMIWG National Action Plan (NAP) identified several populations with unique needs including Indigenous women, youth, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ individuals. This funding will allow ISC to support partnerships with national Indigenous women's organizations and grassroots community organizations that work with these individuals.
Ongoing engagement with NIOs, and organizations representing urban Indigenous, Métis, Indigenous women, 2SLGBTQQIA, and Indigenous youth to support better access to community-based cultural and emotional support services to address intergenerational trauma.

Update on 2022-23 Engagement

Calls for Justice/Calls for Miskotahâ

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.

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Human Safety and Security

Improving the Physical, Social, and Economic Safety of Indigenous Women, Girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ People

The safety of Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people is paramount to preventing violence. At both the individual and community levels, Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people benefit from interventions to improve their physical safety. Areas that contribute to physical safety and security include housing security, safe access to transportation, the construction of new shelters, improved elementary and secondary education, improved policing, improved cultural awareness and training.

In 2022-23, the federal government continued to invest in the physical, economic, and social safety of Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people. Highlights of this work include:

After engaging with First Nations partners, Indigenous Services Canada implemented the Budget 2021 investment in adult education in the amount of $350 million over five years starting in 2022-23. Adult education programming supports First Nations students looking to complete or upgrade their secondary education on-reserve, or wanting to access out-of-community programs in order to complete or upgrade their secondary education. Funding for adult education is flexible and First Nations are able to use it to develop their own adult education programs supporting First Nations students on-reserve, and in the Yukon and Northwest Territories, to support First Nations control of First Nations education.
Indigenous Services Canada invested $310.6 million over 5 years to support better elementary and secondary student outcomes through a regional education agreement (REA) with the Quebec First Nation Education Council (FNEC). FNEC's REA, developed for 22 Quebec communities, not only reflects self-determination principles but is also based on over 10 years of work on the part of FNEC and its member communities to design and develop an education funding model that is responsive to the specific needs and priorities of the communities' students.
The Comprehensive Violence Prevention Strategy, funded by Indigenous Services Canada and has provided support to several Indigenous-led programs:
- A 8 week program discussion-based and centered on subjects specific to domestic violence and its effects. Walk the Good Road addresses various issues such as suicide, gang, violence, family breakdown, addictions and cultural identity. Most importantly, cultural teachings the values and strengths of Indigenous people.
- The Family Violence Prevention Program funded the facilitation of online training on (but not limited to): relationship violence and safety, sexual boundaries, forming healthy relationships etc. A total of eight communities participated.
Through Indigenous Service Canada's Pathways to Safe Indigenous Communities Initiative, the Aboriginal Friendship Centres of Saskatchewan was able to expand the work of the Honouring Her Spark Indigenous Women's Coalition. This project improves the economic landscape for Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQ+ people and has created the first Indigenous Women's Economic Framework in Canada to raise awareness amongst community, industry, and policy makers about the importance of supporting Indigenous women and how this too supports the economic prosperity of Indigenous Peoples.
In November 2022, Federal-Provincial-Territorial Ministers Responsible for the Status of Women announced their endorsement of the National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence. The ten-year National Action Plan sets a framework for anyone facing GBV to have reliable and timely access to protection and services, no matter where they live.
Women and Gender Equality Canada launched a call for proposals with funding from Budget 2021 to bolster the capacity of Indigenous women and 2SLGBTQI+ organizations to provide gender-based violence prevention programming aimed at addressing the root causes of violence. Implementation of funded projects began in fall 2022.
In August 2022, Women and Gender Equality Canada launched the Federal 2SLGBTQI+ Action Plan with a key pillar dedicated to supporting Indigenous 2SLGBTQI+ resilience and resurgence. Subsequently, WAGE undertook a call for proposals for the 2SLGBTQI+ Community Capacity Fund, which will prioritize organizations serving communities experiencing additional marginalization, including Indigenous 2SLGBTQI+ communities. Following the launch, WAGE hired a Two-Spirit Advisor within the 2SLGBTQI+ Secretariat to provide advice on unique issues facing Indigenous 2SLGBTQI+ communities.
Women and Gender Equality Canada collaborated with Statistics Canada on a revised questionnaire for the Survey of Safety in Public and Private Spaces, which will be used for cycle 2 of this national gender-based violence (GBV) survey. The survey produces disaggregated and distinction-based information on GBV among Indigenous Peoples.
Transport Canada continued to fund the Remote Passenger Rail Program that supports passenger rail services to certain remote communities in Quebec and Manitoba.
Infrastructure Canada allocated $10,452,323 in funding to 22 Self-Governing Indigenous Governments, $21,881,540 in funding for distinctions-based approaches to Indigenous homelessness, and $96,367,346 in funding for community-based approaches to Indigenous homelessness.
Infrastructure Canada invited eight communities to participate in the Action Research on Chronic Homelessness (ARCH) initiative. Indigenous partners were engaged to define their priorities and preferred role in the project. One of the eight communities is expected to pursue an Indigenous-led project.
Infrastructure Canada hosted a virtual Indigenous Homelessness forum with Indigenous Homelessness organizations across Canada.
In 2022-2023, Innovation Science and Economic Development Canada announced UBF projects to bring high-speed Internet to nearly 7,300 Indigenous households. Additionally, under the Universal Broadband Fund's Rapid Response Stream, five Indigenous projects totaling over $5 million were completed, bringing new high-speed Internet access to more than 1,800 households.

Full details on Federal Pathway initiatives under the Human Safety and Security theme can be found below.

Human Safety and Security Initiatives

Initiative: Expanding access to adult education for First Nations on reserve and in the North

Lead department(s): Indigenous Services Canada
Funding: $350M/5 years (2022-23 to 2026-27)
Description: Helping close the education attainment gap by expanding access to adult education for First Nations. Through this investment, First Nations will be better equipped to support adult community members to return to school and complete or upgrade their secondary education credentials.
Calls for Justice: 4.4
Calls for Miskotahâ: N/A

Planned Milestones 2022-23

Planned for 2022-23

The funding for this initiative is expected to be rolled out to First Nations recipients in Q3 or Q4, based on an implementation plan currently in co-development with First Nations partners.

Update on 2022-23

Beginning in 2022-23, funding for adult education is being mobilized to support First Nations communities to implement and expand secondary programming for adults on reserve and in the North to complete secondary education credentials.

Coming up in 2023-24

Implementation and expansion funding will continue and adults will be newly eligible to be on the ISC Elementary and Secondary Education nominal roll in fall 2023 in Alberta, Atlantic, and Saskatchewan.

Planned Engagement for 2022-23

National and Regional/Community-Based Partners

The partners for engagement on this initiative are the Assembly of First Nations, First Nations on reserve and in the North and self-governing and modern treaty First Nations.

Update on 2022-23 Engagement

The department continues working with First Nations partners to implement support for adult education.

Calls for Justice/Calls for Miskotahâ

This initiative supports Calls for Justice 1.1 and 4.4 which are oriented towards equitable access to education, training and economic opportunities for Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people through better access to education for First Nations on reserve.

Initiative: Comprehensive Violence Prevention Strategy

Lead Department(s): Indigenous Services Canada, Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation
Funding: $724.1M/5 years and $96.6M ongoing (FES 2020)
Description: Expanding access to culturally relevant supports for Indigenous women, children, 2SLGBTQQIA+ people facing gender-based violence. This strategy will support new shelters and transition housing for First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples across the country, including on reserve, in the North, and in urban areas.
Calls for Justice: 1.8, 3.4, 4.7, 7.3, 16.19, 16.29, 17.20, 17.23
Calls for Miskotahâ: 19, 23, 25

Planned Milestones 2022-23

Planned for 2022-23

Depending on the number of projects selected during each phase and available funding, it is expected that applications for the Indigenous Shelter and Transitional Housing Initiative will continue to be accepted up until the end of fiscal 2023/2024. The first review phase for 2022 was completed on May 31 by Indigenous-led committees; 18 applications were reviewed.

Twelve projects have been selected to move forward to the Letter of Intent phase. These projects would result in 111 units and $41.1M construction funding. Indigenous Services Canada would provide $7.8M in operational funding. The second review phase will run from September 12 to November 30, 2022.

Indigenous Services Canada expects to launch a Call for Proposals in Fall 2022 to fund violence prevention activities to further expand culturally relevant supports for Indigenous Peoples facing family violence. It is expected that potential new funding for enhanced family violence prevention activities will result in more projects funded on an annual basis.

Update on 2022-23

As part of the joint ISC-CMHC Indigenous Shelter and Transitional Housing Initiative which was announced in the 2020 Fall Economic Statement, $304.1 million over five years was allocated to ISC to expand culturally relevant supports for Indigenous Peoples facing gender-based violence. This includes operational funding for the new shelters and transition homes once they are built, with start-up funds available to support preliminary activities. ISC will begin flowing operational funding for the new shelters and transition homes when the facilities are built. Between 2021-22 and 2022-23 Indigenous Services Canada had a total of $53.4 million available to fund the operations of new shelters and transition homes and to support violence prevention activities. A total of $37.1 million, $147,356.41 has been provided to support initial start-up costs for selected shelter and transition home projects, project development costs, and to various Indigenous organizations for violence prevention activities in the fiscal years 2021-22 and 2022-23. These include existing shelters, communities, Tribal Councils, and other partners in support of other culturally relevant supports, programs and services for Indigenous Peoples facing gender-based violence. Some of the selected projects are currently revising their estimates for startup costs. Of the $41.8 million, a total of $3.9 million has been provided to support initial operational costs, $4.7 million on project development, and $33.2 million has been spent on programs and services.

Since the launch of this initiative, twenty-one two(22) projects have been selected, which will result in 178 new units: twelve (12) shelters, nine (9) transitional housing projects, and one (1) mixed used project. These shelters and transition homes will provide Indigenous women, children and 2SLGBTQQIA+ survivors of gender-based violence a vital refuge and culturally appropriate supports and services.

Coming up in 2023-24

As part of the Comprehensive Violence Prevention Strategy, in 2023-24, ISC will continue to support the selection and construction of at least 38 new emergency shelters and at least 50 second-stage housing facilities with the Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation. ISC will also continue to provide culturally-appropriate enhanced services and family violence prevention activities for Indigenous communities.

Finally, ISC will continue to strengthen relationships with Indigenous partners including Indigenous women's organizations and 2SLGBTQQIA+ organizations to better provide support that meets their needs and aligns with their respective traditional ways of knowing and being.

Planned Engagement for 2022-23

National and Regional/Community-Based Partners

Partnership and engagement has been sought from Pauktuutit Inuit Women of Canada, Les Femmes Michif Otipemisiwak, Assembly of First Nations' Women's Council, the National Aboriginal Circle Against Family Violence, the National Family and Survivors Circle, Urban partners, 2SLGBTQQIA+ partners, and others.

Update on 2022-23 Engagement

CMHC and Indigenous Services Canada sought input from Indigenous organizations and subject matter experts to form committees and develop the evaluation process.
Eligible applications are evaluated by Indigenous-led committees comprised of representatives from CMHC, ISC, Indigenous organizations, subject matter experts in shelters and housing delivery, as well as people with lived experience. This ensures selected projects are culturally appropriate and meet the needs of clients. The committees provide overall direction and prioritization, as well as review and score proposals.
In June 2022, Committee members called for a broader discussion with a larger representation of Indigenous organizations and people with lived experience, who have a vested interest in increasing access to safe places for Indigenous women, 2SLGBTQQIA+ people, and their children facing gender-based violence. The basis of this idea was threefold: 1- Expand the dialogue in search of solutions to current barriers experienced with the delivery of the Initiative 2- Identify and request changes to the current Initiative and 3- Design a policy approach to funding for Indigenous shelters and transitional housing with an Indigenous-led perspective. This meeting will take place May 23rd in Ottawa.

In 2022-23, ISC actively engaged with partners including Pauktuutit Inuit Women of Canada, Les Femmes Michif Otipemisiwak, Assembly of First Nations' Women's Council, the National Aboriginal Circle Against Family Violence, the National Family and Survivors Circle, Urban partners, 2SLGBTQQIA+ partners, and others as part of the Comprehensive Violence Prevention Strategy on the selection of new facilities and on program enhancements. In 2022-23, 22 new facilities were selected for the Shelter and Transitional Housing Initiative in collaboration with these partners.

Calls for Justice/Calls for Miskotahâ

This initiative directly responds to calls for safe spaces, shelters, transition homes, second stage housing, and services for Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA people who are fleeing violence or have been subjected to sexualized violence and exploitation through Calls for Justice 4.7, 16.19, 1.8, 3.4, 4.7, 7.3, 16.19, 16.29, 17.20, and 17.23 and Call for Miskotahâ 19, 23, and 25

Initiative: Urban, Rural and Northern Indigenous Housing Strategy

Lead department(s): Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation and Indigenous Services Canada
Funding: Commitment of $300 million to advance engagement for an Urban, Rural and Northern Indigenous Housing Strategy and the advancement of critical projects in areas not currently covered by distinctions-based housing strategies
Calls for Justice: 1.8, 3.4, 4.7, 7.3, 16.19, 16.29, 17.20, 17.23
Calls for Miskotahâ: 19, 23, 25

Planned Milestones 2022-23

Planned 2022-23

The Urban, Rural and Northern Indigenous Housing Strategy is intended to complement the existing distinctions-based housing strategies.
Budget 2022 committed $300 million to co-develop and launch an Urban, Rural and Northern Indigenous Housing Strategy with Indigenous partners to address the housing needs of Indigenous Peoples living in urban, rural and northern areas. A portion of this funding is being flowed through Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) to support engagement for the co-development of a broader U.R.N. Indigenous Housing Strategy.
The Government of Canada, through CMHC, will support Indigenous-led engagements that seek input and ideas from Indigenous housing and service providers, Indigenous governments and organizations, Indigenous Peoples living in urban, rural and northern areas, and advocacy organizations.
Engagement sessions will also help bring forward input from groups that have not yet been engaged on an Urban, Rural and Northern Indigenous Housing Strategy.
The engagement builds on the important work of previous studies and advocacy by Indigenous groups, non-profit associations, stakeholders, parliamentarians, and others to shape a Housing Strategy designed for, and by, Indigenous Peoples.
Input and ideas will also be gathered through an online survey now open for submissions, as well as through written submissions by email or mail, until March 31, 2023.
Co-development of the Strategy will be ongoing throughout the engagement process. CMHC will collaborate with partners to validate the results and options from the engagement sessions.

Update for 2022-23

CMHC will continue to work with our Indigenous partners on the co-development of the U.R.N. Strategy with the potential for a national gathering in the fall of 2023.

Coming up in 2023-24

CMHC will continue to work with our Indigenous partners on the co-development of the U.R.N. Strategy with the potential for a national gathering in the fall of 2023.

Planned Engagement for 2022-23

Update on 2022-2023 Engagement

The Government of Canada, through CMHC, gathered input and ideas on an Urban, Rural and Northern Indigenous Housing Strategy between February 14 and March 31, 2023, through an online survey and via written submissions.
A total of 965 surveys were completed, along with several, including 22 received by email or mail. Two written submissions were also received.
Indigenous-led engagement sessions were also held across the country to help inform an Urban, Rural and Northern Indigenous Housing Strategy. Input and ideas were sought from Indigenous housing and service providers, Indigenous governments and organizations, Indigenous Peoples living in urban, rural and northern areas, and advocacy organizations. These engagements also created an opportunity to bring forward input from groups that had not yet been engaged.
CMHC also conducted an initial round of bilateral discussions with 11 PTs to hear views on the Strategy.
PTs showed some openness to discussing how to better leverage FPT funding once Indigenous-led consultations are complete. PTs also showed some willingness to collaborate and partner with a "For Indigenous, By Indigenous" centre once details are known.
Comments were provided in absence of details on the Strategy and should not be considered as official PT positioning.
The engagements resulted in rich feedback on key issues, barriers, solutions and key priorities for the Strategy.
The engagement sessions were focused on the housing continuum, from addressing homelessness, the need for transitional and support housing, affordability and supply challenges, and interest in homeownership. It also extended to housing-related supports and services, health and well-being and more holistic responses.
Certain populations in greatest need have also been raised across all engagements including youth aging out of care, student housing, elders housing, women and children fleeing violence, and people experiencing homelessness.

Calls for Justice/Calls for Miskotahâ

The Urban, Rural and Northern Indigenous Housing Strategy engagement support Calls for Justice 4.1, 4.6, 4.7 12.4, 16.18 and 18.25 and Calls for Miskotahâ 25 and 26. This investment will help to improve the immediate and urgent housing needs of Indigenous people in urban, rural and northern areas. It will also inform the co-development of a long-term strategy to improve housing supply and availability, including for Indigenous women and girls, as well as 2SLGBTQIA+ people.

Initiative: Increasing access to employment and skills development for First Nations and Inuit youth

Lead department(s): Indigenous Services Canada
Funding:

$80.1M/1 year (2021-22) (FES 2020); including $33.4M for a one year pilot project (2021-22) involving a partnership between ISC's First Nations and Inuit Youth Employment Strategy and Income Assistance Programs) called the Income Assistance First Nations Youth Employment Strategy (IAFNYES); and
$28.8M/1 year (2022-23) (B21);
$100.2M over three years to extend the IAFNIYES pilot project for 2022-23, 2023-24 and 2024-25.

Description: Under the First Nation and Inuit Youth Employment Strategy, supporting initiatives that provide First Nations and Inuit students and youth aged 15-30 with work experience by providing incentives and supports to employers to hire and retain First Nations youth on reserve and Inuit youth outside of land-claim areas. The Income Assistance First Nations Youth Employment Strategy supports up to 2,000 on reserve and Yukon First Nations youth per year between the ages of 18 and 30 who are receiving Income Assistance in order to help them transition to the workforce or return to school.
Calls for Justice: 1.1, 4.4, 16.21
Calls for Miskotahâ: N/A

Planned Milestones 2022-23

Planned for 2022-23

Additional funding for the First Nations and Inuit Youth Employment Strategy was announced in Budget 2021 and has been implemented in the 2022-2023 allocations. An engagement process to determine whether changes are required to the Terms and Conditions (Ts&Cs) of the FNIYES program is currently underway. Next steps include preparing a report of findings and developing recommendations on whether the Ts&Cs require updating.

The implementation of the pilot program – Income Assistance First Nations Youth Employment Strategy.

The one year Pilot concluded on March 31, 2022. ISC's Income Assistance program and First Nations and Inuit Youth Employment Strategy leads are working to ensure that all final reports are received and analyzed in order to measure and report on the outcomes of the Pilot. Early outcomes of the Pilot include 1474 Income Assistance clients actively participating in Income Assistance First Nations Youth Employment Strategy work placements by December 1, 2021.

As part of Budget 2022, IAFNYES received $100.2 million over three years, starting with $33.4 million in 2022-23. The 2022-23 and 2023-24 Calls for Proposals are underway. Following the submission of successful proposals, regions will transfer funds to the corresponding recipients.

Update on 2022-23

The 2022 Fall Economic Statement announced an additional $54 million of FNIYES funding over 2 years starting in 2023-24 was announced, and $100.2 million over 3 years starting in 2022-23 to extend the IAFNYES pilot. ESDC led the Treasury Board Submission for this funding, and it was approved on January 30, 2023.

The IAFNYES calls for proposals for 2022-23 and 2023-24 were launched in early November 2022. Both calls for proposals were launched at the same time in order to provide recipients the option to plan activities and expenditures for placements over two years.

Engagement on changes to the Terms and Conditions has been completed. The What We Heard Report further to the engagement process is in progress.

Coming up in 2023-24

Successful proposals for FY 2023-24 will be funded to support First Nations and Inuit youth in work placements that allow them to acquire the skills, learning experiences and opportunities they need to find and maintain employment or return to school.

Planned Engagement for 2022-23

National and Regional/Community-Based Partners

The funder is Employment and Social Development Canada. ISC is the partner that delivers programming to First Nations and Inuit Youth Employment Strategy recipients and participants and Income Assistance recipients and participants.

For IAFNYES: The partners are also Income Assistance recipients and clients.

Update on 2022-23 Engagement

Engagement on changes to the Terms and Conditions has been completed. The What We Heard Report further to the engagement process will be shared with ESDC once finalized.

Calls for Justice/Calls for Miskotahâ

This initiative supports Calls for Justice 1.1 and 4.4 in the area of increased employment and skills training opportunities for First Nations youth on reserve, as well as Inuit youth living outside of their land claim areas. It further supports Call for Justice 16.21 by providing equitable access to economic activities, including increased employment and skills training opportunities for Inuit women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA people. The FNIYES program supports this call in the area of increased employment and skills training opportunities for Inuit youth living outside of their land claim areas.

Initiative: Pathways to Safe Indigenous Communities Initiative

Lead department(s): Indigenous Services Canada
Funding: $123.8M/5 years
Description: The Pathways to Safe Indigenous Communities Initiative will assist First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities and partners (on- and off-reserve) to implement Indigenous designed programs, interventions and services to improve community safety and well-being. It will support Indigenous definitions of safe, secure and resilient communities and will allow for greater community control, innovation and alternative approaches that recognize the importance of traditional knowledge and practices, as well as a role for professionals, other than law enforcement, in contributing to greater community safety and well-being. The Pathways Initiative will also specifically support programs, services and interventions that address existing and emerging needs relating to the safety and well-being of Indigenous women and girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ People.
Calls for Justice: 5.4
Calls for Miskotahâ: 23, 62

Planned Milestones 2022-23

Planned for 2022-23

In 2022 – 2023, year two of the program, $23.6 million in funding is available to support community safety and well-being initiatives in First Nation, Inuit, and Métis communities. Project proposals are accepted on an on-going basis as part of an open call.

Thus far, $24 million of the $103.8 million over the five years has been committed to approved projects. The Pathways to Safe Indigenous Communities Initiative funding is being allocated with a distinctions based and regional equitability lens to reach First Nations, Métis and Inuit Communities.

An additional $20 million in funding for Pathways was announced in November 2022

Update on 2022-23

In fiscal year 2022-2023, the Pathways Initiative provided $23.6 million in funding to 51 community safety and well-being projects. Commitments to multi-year projects resulted in an overall commitment of $96.4 million in total over the 5 years. Recipients included First Nations, Inuit and Métis organizations and communities, and Indigenous Urban organizations. Individual projects respond to a wide range of community safety and well-being needs including support for:

the expansion of an existing street outreach patrol to nine First Nations communities to provide safety to vulnerable groups and connect them to existing services;
delivery of a cultural program to promote safety and well-being and increase awareness about violence and sexual exploitation;
creation of a safe space for women and those who are gender diverse for gathering and healing, ensuring culturally appropriate supports are in place and expansion of community outreach activities; and,
an Indigenous-designed web and mobile application for sharing community alerts and information, including immediate notifications regarding dangerous situations.

An additional $20 million for the Pathways Initiative was announced in November 2022, which will be delivered over the next 3 fiscal years.

Coming up in 2023-24

Funding continues.

Planned Engagement for 2022-23

National and Regional/Community-Based Partners

ISC regional offices, First Nations, Inuit and Métis organizations and communities.

Update on 2022-23 Engagement

Other federal government departments, ISC regional offices, First Nations, Inuit and Métis organizations and communities.

Calls for Justice/Calls for Miskotahâ

This initiative supports Call for Justice 5.4 by providing support for the self-determination of Indigenous communities to design community safety and wellbeing interventions that suit their needs.

The Pathways Initiative supports Calls for Miskotahâ 23 and 62 by assisting Métis communities and partners to implement Indigenous designed programs, interventions and services to improve community safety and well-being. It will also specifically support programs, services and interventions that address existing and emerging needs relating to the safety and well-being of Indigenous women and girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ People and will allow for greater community control, innovation and alternative approaches that recognize the importance of traditional knowledge and practices, as well as a role for professionals, other than law enforcement, in contributing to greater community safety and well-being. The Pathways Initiative will assist in better aligning existing federal safety and well-being programming and services and enable holistic horizontal/multi-sectoral approaches to be realized and implemented in communities.

Initiative: Aboriginal Community Safety Planning Initiative and Northern and Indigenous Crime Prevention Fund

Lead Department(s): Public Safety Canada
Funding: $6.27 (FES 2020), 64.6M/5 years (B2021) and $18.1M ongoing
Description: Expanding access to the Aboriginal Community Safety Planning Initiative (ACSPI) and increasing resources under the Northern and Indigenous Crime Prevention Fund (NICPF), one of the four programs of the National Crime Prevention Strategy, to further support project implementation. These programs deliver community-led, Indigenous designed planning programs that support the development of community safety plans (CSP) and the implementation of community-led crime prevention initiatives with Indigenous communities across the country. A CSP is an expression of community-identified safety challenges and includes actionable solutions which have been developed through a facilitated, strengths-based process led by community members, community leadership, local service providers, and other partners identified by the community.

With these resources, these programs will continue to help build the capacity of Indigenous communities to exert greater self-determination in the area of community safety and increase access to community safety programs for First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities on reserve, in the North, and in urban areas.

Calls for Justice: 3.4, 3.5, 5.4, 5.4.i, 5.4.ii, 5.5, 5.5iv
Calls for Miskotahâ: 8, 23, 62

Planned Milestones 2022-23

Planned for 2022-23

Q1-Q4: Ongoing engagement and support of Indigenous communities across the country to develop Community Safety Plans (CSP) (continuous enrolment). (Q1-Q4).
Q1-Q4: Support implementation of the CSPs with funding under the Aboriginal Community Safety Development Contribution Program.
Q1-Q3: From April 2022 to December 2022 engagement, development, and approval of partnership arrangements with select partners will be completed. (Q1 – Q3)
Q1-Q3: Implementation of community-led crime prevention initiatives funded through the National Crime Prevention Strategy's NICPF.

Update on 2022-23

ACSPI engaged with 49 Indigenous communities, supported 15 communities to complete a Community Safety Plan, and entered into 11 Contribution Agreements to support implementation of components of their Safety Plans. Of the 49 Indigenous communities engaged, 9 communities were identified for support under Public Safety's Building Safer Community Fund; 2 of these communities will implement interventions, while 5 communities are still being engaged and supported to develop interventions.
A Request for Standing Offer was posted to recruit additional Indigenous facilitators for the Community Safety Planning process.
ACSPI participates in regular meetings with Indigenous Services Canada's Pathways to Safe Indigenous Communities Initiative to discuss proposal submissions and funding options and opportunities for Indigenous communities. ACSPI conducts an on-going review of project initiatives for funding through the Northern and Indigenous Crime Prevention Fund.
New funding agreements are being reviewed to include an evaluation component in an effort to support Indigenous communities in the development of Indigenous-specific evidence-based best practices.
ACSPI sponsored and hosted a gathering of Indigenous communities with CSPs in Toronto, Ontario. The in-person and online meeting focused on mental wellness in community safety planning grounded in Indigenous culture and approaches. The gathering was a precursor to the development of a Community of Practice for CSP communities.
In May 2022, ICCI received ongoing policy authority to administer the program on an ongoing basis and, in February 2023, ICCI's renewal and expansion was approved.
Following its approval, an ICCI's national Call for Applications was launched on March 21, 2023. The Call is open until June 12, 2023. The Call will support grassroots efforts that expand alternatives to incarceration and support reintegration among Indigenous offenders in order to increase the range of services offered and the volume of projects funded, with additional supports for Indigenous women and 2SLGBTQI+ people.

Coming up in 2023-24

New evaluation tools and methodologies will continue to be sought in 2023-24 and current evaluations will be supported. ACSPI and ICCI will begin development of an enhanced suite of supports to ensure that evaluations conducted through this funding are better aligned with Indigenous recipients and practitioners.

Q1-Q2: ACSPI will support local Indigenous-led safety planning efforts by establishing a virtual Community of Practice gathering. The meetings will provide communities with CSPs an occasion for networking, sharing of best practices, capacity building and knowledge development.
Q1-Q4: ACSPI will participate in ongoing engagement and support the continuous enrolment of Indigenous communities across Canada to develop Community Safety Plans.
ACSPI will provide support to Indigenous communities with the implementation of Community Safety Plans through funding under the Aboriginal Community Safety Development Contribution Program.
Q2: ACSPI will support Facilitator Training in Ottawa, Ontario

In 2023-2024, as part of the ICCI's national Call for Applications, a total of $5.21 million will be available and $12 million ongoing thereafter to support alternatives to incarceration and reintegrate Indigenous offenders through project development and implementation, training, communications, knowledge building and sharing, and direct interventions.

A list of ICCI recipients for 2023-24 will be available with new ICCI projects beginning implementation by the end of 2023/start of 2024. As projects are implemented, projects monitoring, performance and data collection will be completed on a regular basis, with more information describing ICCI projects to become available in 2024.

Planned Engagement for 2022-23

National and Regional/Community-Based Partners

Public Safety Regional Offices;
Federal, Provincial and Territorial government departments responsible for crime prevention, community safety and wellbeing;
Canadian universities, educational institutions/boards of education, and Centres of excellence;
Indigenous communities and organizations; and,
Local governments and service providers.

Update on 2022-23 Engagement

Collaborated internally with other Public Safety Canada initiatives, including Human Trafficking, Northern and Indigenous Crime Prevention Fund, Building Safer Communities Fund and Crime Prevention Action Fund.
Collaborated with Public Safety regional offices for virtual introduction to Building Safer Communities Fund (BSCF) communities.
ACSPI provided introductions to PTs and participated in ongoing communication on processes taking place within their province/territory.
Support networking opportunities among the Nations (connecting Nations with other Nations on best practices and what is working).
Continue to collaborate and build on partnership with Indigenous Services Canada and its initiatives, including the Pathways to Safe Indigenous Communities Initiative, Climate Change and Health Adaptation Program South, and the Family Violence Prevention Program.
ACSPI is engaged with ISC Ontario on testing a joint Community Safety Plan/ISC Comprehensive Community Plan delivery process for a few communities in Ontario and has participated in preliminary discussions with ISC Atlantic on a similar process.
Engaged with Women and Gender Equality Canada's Strategy to Prevent and Address Gender-Based Violence, Human Trafficking and Equality for Sex, Sexual Orientation, Gender and Identify Expression
ACSPI has engaged with the RCMP regionally to support community efforts at addressing crime and prevention activities.
ACSPI is in discussion with Simon Fraser University to support training and capacity building opportunities for Indigenous communities.

Calls for Justice/Calls for Miskotahâ

This initiative supports Call for Justice 3.4 through support for Indigenous community-led (health) services, including (but not limited to) addiction and trauma treatment programs. It also support Call for Justice 3.5 for culturally competent, community-led responses to safety priorities identified in Community Safety Plans. The ACSPI program, in particular, also supports Call for Justice 5.5iv through community-led initiatives that address community needs.

This initiative also supports Call for Miskotahâ 8 through community-led strategies to eliminate social and economic barriers that create disparities among Indigenous Peoples, including Métis women as well as Call for Miskotahâ 23, in funding community-led, culturally-based programs and services to Indigenous Peoples, including Métis women and children. In doing so, it also supports Call for Miskotahâ 62 through community-based reconciliation activities to promote safe Indigenous communities.

ICCI responds to Call for Justice 14.6 by supporting targeted proposals (e.g., Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+) that respond to underlying causes of offending, including mental health, addictions, and trauma services, as part of the reintegration process. These services will be accessible to ICCI participants on an as-needed basis for the duration of the project; the services will not be tied to the duration of the justice-involved Indigenous person's sentence or period of incarceration.

ICCI further responds to Call for Justice 14.8 by supporting the development and implementation of Indigenous community-led projects that respond to the unique needs and circumstances of justice-involved Indigenous people, including women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people.

ICCI supports Call for Miskotahâ 23 to ensure that holistic, culturally-based wraparound programs, services and opportunities acknowledge and address conditions that situate vulnerable Métis women and children when alternatives to incarceration and reintegration projects will be implemented with Indigenous offenders.

Call for Miskotahâ 41 is also addressed through ICCI by supporting project seeking to reduce recidivism and thereby, eliminating the overrepresentation of Métis people in custody over the next decade. When available, data will be reported annually on Métis participating in ICCI community-based corrections project, including on Métis women.

Finally, ICCI responds to Call for Miskotahâ 44 by working with Métis communities and Métis organizations to provide culturally relevant services to Métis inmates on issues such as substance abuse, family and domestic violence.

Initiative: Reaching Home: Canada's Homelessness Strategy

Lead Department(s): Infrastructure Canada
Funding: IC: Additional $299.4M in 2021-2022 (COVID-specific); $567M over two years, beginning in 2022-2023 (to sustain response and prevent further inflows into homelessness)
Description: Reaching Home: Canada's Homelessness Strategy is a community-based program aimed at preventing and reducing homelessness for all, including for Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people. Under Reaching Home, communities are provided resources to implement an outcomes-based approach, providing them with flexibility to address local priorities by investing in a range of interventions, including programming designed to meet the needs of vulnerable populations (e.g. women experiencing violence, people fleeing family violence, Indigenous people, the 2SLGBTQQIA+ communities, etc.).Providing emergency funding to Reaching Home Community Entities in order to maintain services to prevent and reduce homelessness and reduce the spread of COVID-19.
Calls for Justice: 4.1, 4.7, 12.4, 16.1, 16.18, 16.19, 18.25
Calls for Miskotahâ: 8, 18, 23, 25, 26

Planned Milestones 2022-23

Planned for 2022-23

Q1: Budget 2021 incremental funding begins to flow to Reaching Home partners as amendments to their existing agreements and/or as new agreements where necessary.
Q1: 2022-2023 reporting cycle of the Community Homelessness Report is launched.
Q2: Modern Treaty Holder partners begin to submit reports for the 2021-22 reporting cycle.
Q2: Analysis of Modern Treaty Holder partner reports.
Q2: Planning for Indigenous Homelessness forum(s).
Q3: Indigenous Homelessness Forum takes place.
Q4: Preparation for the launch of the 2022-23 reporting cycle with Community Entities and Modern Treaty Holders.
Q1-Q4: Co-development work with Distinctions-Based partners continues.
Q1-Q4: Group and bilateral engagement with Indigenous Homelessness Community Entities.
Q1-Q4: The National Indigenous Homelessness Council continues.

Update on 2022-23

Q1-Q4: Amendments to Reaching Home agreements and/or establishment of new agreements took place to flow B2021 incremental funding for fiscal years 2022-23 and 2023-24.
Q1: The 2021-2022 reporting cycle of the Community Homelessness Report launched with strengthened accountability on reporting publicly on collaboration with Indigenous partners.
Q4: Analysis of the Modern Treaty Holder partner reports for 2021-22 Reaching Home funding is pending upon receipt of final outstanding reports.
Q4: Planning for an Indigenous Homelessness engagement approach for the 2023-24 fiscal year, including planning for forums, continues.
Q1: A virtual Indigenous Homelessness forum was held.
Q4: The 2022-23 reporting cycle for the Community Homelessness Report launched March 10, 2023. Updated questions and reference guide included strengthened language around meaningful collaboration with Indigenous partners.
Q4: Preliminary discussions regarding the launch of the 2022-23 Modern Treaty Holder reporting cycle have begun.
Q1-Q4: Co-development work with distinctions-based partners has continued through regular ongoing meetings.
- A new homelessness priority area is being established under the Inuit-Crown Partnership committee, with the Homelessness Policy Directorate at INFC as the federal co-lead.
- Collaboration continues on an approach to deliver funding designated for First Nations though a Joint Technical Working Group on Homelessness.
- Work continues with First Nations, Métis, and Inuit partners to co-develop distinctions-based results frameworks for Reaching Home funding.
Q1-Q4: Ongoing engagement on the priorities of the National Indigenous Homelessness Council and the Indigenous Homelessness Community Entities continued via weekly calls with the National Indigenous Homelessness Coordinator.

Coming up in 2023-24

Q1-Q2: Planning for a potential in-person Indigenous Homelessness forum with the event taking place in Q3.
Q1: Analysis of 2021-22 Community Homelessness Reports.
Q1: 2021-22 Modern Treaty Holder reports analyzed upon receipt of final outstanding reports.
Q2: Modern Treaty Holder Annual Report Templates revisited and alternative formats piloted to increase accessibility (Word).
Q2: Modern Treaty Holder partners begin to submit reports for the 2022-23 reporting cycle.
Q4: Preparation for the launch of the 2023-24 reporting cycle with Community Entities and Modern Treaty Holders.
Q1-Q4: Group and bilateral engagement with Indigenous Homelessness Community Entities and The National Indigenous Homelessness Council continues.
Q1-Q4: Co-development work with distinctions-based partners continues, with a focus on finalizing co-developed distinctions-based results frameworks and the establishment and renewal of agreements for fiscal year 2024-25 and beyond.
Q1: Launch of a First Nations distinctions-based funding delivery model.

Planned Engagement for 2022-23

National Partners (ongoing)

Provincial and territorial governments,
National Indigenous Homelessness Council,
National Indigenous Organizations (Assembly of First Nations, Métis National Council, Manitoba Métis Federation, Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami) and their affiliated organizations; and,
Other partners within the housing and homelessness sectors

Regional and Community-Based Partners (ongoing)

Reaching Home Community Entities and Community Advisory Boards (includes 37 communities and regions across Canada under the Indigenous Homelessness stream),
Modern Treaty Holders with provisions in their treaties related to the delivery of social services
Other partners within the housing and homelessness sectors

Update on 2022-23 Engagement

Weekly meetings with the National Indigenous Homelessness Council (through the National Indigenous Homelessness Coordinator) to discuss key areas of interest to the Indigenous Homelessness Community Entities
National Indigenous Homelessness Forum May 2022. This virtual event brought together partners from the Indigenous Homelessness Stream of Reaching Home to discuss a variety of issues, with a particular focus on data. Sessions included discussions about Coordinated Access and Homelessness Management Information Systems, the National Homelessness Data Strategy and findings from the 2018-2021 Community Homelessness Report.
The Joint Technical Working Group on Homelessness, first established in October 2020, comprises technical representatives from the AFN and INFC, as well as First Nations Housing Technicians from each AFN region. The JTWG meets regularly to advance co-development work on First Nations homelessness.
Regular working level meetings with ITK on the co-development of a results framework, joint prep work for the ICPC Homelessness Priority Area, as well as developing a plan to deliver urban Inuit funding.
Monthly meetings with Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated at Nunavut Homelessness Tripartite Table meetings with the Government of Nunavut.

Standing technical working group meetings with the Métis Nation and its Governing Members as well as the Manitoba Métis Federation to continue collaboration on the implementation of homelessness programming for Métis.

Calls for Justice/Calls for Miskotahâ

This initiative supports calls oriented towards supporting Indigenous partners to co-develop distinctions-based plans to address critical Infrastructure gaps and to improve socio-economic conditions to provide an opportunity for a good life and a safe, stable environment for Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people. It links to Calls for Justice 4.1, 4.7 and 12.4 by providing dedicated funding to support culturally-appropriate services that seek to prevent and reduce Indigenous homelessness. It also supports Call for Justice 16.1 by working with Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated, the Nunavut Government, Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami, and other Regions of Inuit Nunangat, and Calls for Justice 16.18 and 16.19 by providing funding for housing and homelessness supports in Inuit Nunangat. Finally, the program supports Call for Justice 18.25 through dedicated funding to support culturally-appropriate services that seek to prevent and reduce Indigenous homelessness.

In addition, this program supports Calls for Miskotahâ 8, 18, 23, 25 and 26 by providing distinctions-based funding to Métis partners to address homelessness.

Initiative: The National Housing Strategy (B2021)

Lead Department[s]:Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation
Description:The National Housing Strategy is a suite of initiatives that includes:

Rapid Housing Initiative – Round 1 & 2

Funding: $ $2.5 billion over two years (2020/21 - 2021/22)

National Housing Co-Investment Fund

Funding: Reallocation of $1.3B in the National Housing Co-Investment Fund is to further offer subsidies and additional contribution for construction, repair and support of affordable housing units, and includes: $250 million from 2021/2022 to 2022/2023 for transitional housing units and shelter beds for women and their children fleeing gender-based violence.

Federal Community Housing Initiative – phase 2

Funding: $118,200,000 over 7 years

Canada Housing Benefit

Funding: $315.4M/7 years

Planned Milestones 2022-23

Planned for 2022-23

Ongoing collaboration through regional representatives with proponents, sectors/regions, partners for the Rapid Housing Initiative and the National Housing Co-Investment Fund.

For the Canada Housing Benefit and Federal Community Housing Initiative, funding will continue to flow through agreements.

Update on 2022-23

As December 31, 2022, since its launch in 2017, the NHS has committed an estimated $10.10 billion towards targeting and supporting the housing needs of women and their children, which includes funding for the construction, repair and support of 263,194 housing units. This includes funding committed and spent under the National Housing Co-Investment Fund, Rental Construction Financing Initiative, Federal Lands Initiative, Affordable Housing Innovation Fund, Rapid Housing Initiative, Federal Community Housing Initiative.

Canada Community Housing Initiative, Community Housing Transformation Centre and Research and Data Initiative, Indigenous Shelter and Transitional Housing Initiative as well as funding spent under legacy agreements to support community housing.

Coming up in 2023-24

Canada Housing Benefit: Bilateral negotiations with provinces and territories for the $315.4 million over five years through the Canada Housing Benefit to increase direct financial assistance for low-income survivors of gender-based violence to help with their rent payments.

Planned Engagement for 2022-23

National Partners

CMHC offers programs and initiatives of national application. To raise awareness, CMHC proactively engages several partners, including the following:

Provincial and territorial governments
National Indigenous Organizations, and their affiliated organizations.

Regional and Community-Based Partners

Indigenous governments and organizations, non-profit organizations, municipal governments, among others.

Through CMHC there are regional representatives that have relationships with provincial and territorial governments, National Indigenous organizations, and their affiliated organizations, public and private sector, and other partners within the housing and homelessness sectors in order to facilitate access to NHS initiatives.

Update on 2022-23 Engagement

CMHC continues engagement with key partners, provincial and territorial governments, National Indigenous Organizations and their affiliated organizations, and regional and community-based partners.

Calls for Justice/Calls for Miskotahâ

Budget 2021 announcements for initiatives under the National housing Strategy as well as overall National Housing Strategy initiative support Calls for Justice 4.1, 4.6, 4.7 12.4, 16.18 and 18.25 and Calls for Miskotahâ 25 and 26. These investments help to improve the housing conditions of all Canadians by increasing housing supply and availability, including for Indigenous women and girls. The Rapid Housing Initiative (RHI) in particular is intended to help address urgent housing needs of vulnerable Canadians, especially in the context of COVID-19, through the rapid construction of affordable housing. The RHI takes a human rights-based approach to housing, serving people experiencing or at risk of homelessness and other vulnerable people under the NHS, including: women and children fleeing domestic violence, seniors, young adults, Indigenous Peoples, people with disabilities, people experiencing mental health and addiction issues, veterans, LGBTQ2 individuals, racialized groups, and recent immigrants or refugees.

In addition, the Shelter and Transitional Housing Initiative for Indigenous Women and Children directly speaks to Calls for Justice 4.7 and 16.19 by addressing Indigenous women, children and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people's challenges and barriers to shelters and transitional housing. For those who experience violence, a shelter is often a first step to rebuilding their lives and protecting them from further violence.

Initiative: Expand community reintegration supports for Indigenous women who are offenders

Lead department(s):Correctional Service of Canada
Description:Distributing funding for Indigenous reintegration services. This program will expand CSC's community reintegration supports for federally-sentenced Indigenous women.
Calls for Justice:14.6, 14.9
Calls for Miskotahâ:N/A

Planned Milestones 2022-23

Planned for 2022-23

On-going collaboration with CSC sectors/regions, partners (e.g. National Indigenous Organizations) and advisory bodies such as the National Indigenous Advisory Committee (NIAC) to ensure continued reintegration support for Indigenous women. A total of 600k in contributions for 2022-2023 has been made available for reintegration services for Indigenous Offenders, inclusive of Woman Offenders, involving the delivery of trauma and problematic substance use interventions, programs that address gang disaffiliation, and life skills interventions.

Two agreements are in place, however none for Indigenous women at this time. CSC is continuing to seek proposals specifically for Indigenous women.

Update on 2022-23

CSC's Indigenous Offender Reintegration Contribution Program provides the opportunity to distribute funding to the Indigenous governing bodies and organizations developing and/or delivering services to improve correctional results for Indigenous offenders (including women), addressing the overrepresentation of Indigenous offenders in the system, creating safer communities and strengthening community partnerships. The total value of the contribution program is $4,875,000 over 5 years. In fiscal year (FY) 2022/2023, $600 000 was allocated for distribution through contribution agreements, which will increase to $900,000 in 2023/2024 FY and $1,200,000 in 2024/2025 FY.

The Indigenous Offender Employment Initiative's (IOEI) goal is to enhance employment and employability skills training for Indigenous offenders, inclusive of women offenders. Women will learn on-the-job and vocational training in the building and construction industries The IOEI has resulted in initiatives in primarily the Prairie region at (SK and Edmonton Community Industries). In 2022, a new CORCAN Community Industry launched in Ottawa to provide on-the-job and vocational training through transitional employment for Indigenous offenders under supervision in the community. An additional CORCAN Community Industry is anticipated to be implemented in 2023 through this initiative in British Columbia.

There are currently three Healing Lodges for women that accept women at both the minimum- and, on a case-by-case basis, at medium-security levels. In July 2022, CSC introduced policy changes relating to the management of Section 81 agreements intended to reduce barriers to the full utilization of existing agreements and the creation of new agreements through a framework that emphasizes relationship-building and renewed partnerships with Indigenous communities and organizations.

CSC may also be signing an agreement for two (or more, if the need presents) Community Residential Facility beds at a new Indigenous women's Healing Lodge in Toronto, Ontario. The Thunder Women Healing Lodge will be a 10 bed facility.

Coming up in 2023-24

CSC continues to enhance collaboration with Indigenous partners to create more opportunities for First Nations, Métis, and Inuit communities to help support the successful reintegration of Indigenous offenders.
CSC is also streamlining the Section 84 release process to remove barriers to participation and increase supportive releases for Women Offenders to home communities.
CSC will continue to review several proposals for the Indigenous Offender Reintegration Contribution Program across the country, which will continue until funds are exhausted each year. These proposals will be considerate of the needs of Indigenous Women offenders as well.

Planned Engagement for 2022-23

National and Regional/Community-Based Partners

CSC sectors/regions, partners (e.g. National Indigenous Organizations) and advisory bodies such as the National Indigenous Advisory Committee (NIAC)

Update on 2022-23 Engagement

CSC sectors/regions, partners (e.g., National Indigenous Organizations) and advisory bodies such as the National Indigenous Advisory Committee (NIAC), Indigenous communities and governing bodies

Calls for Justice/Calls for Miskotahâ

The Contribution Program aids in addressing Calls to Justice 14.6and 14.9by funding needs-based reintegration support for Indigenous offenders. Due to their expertise and lived-experiences, Indigenous organizations and governing bodies, who are the target recipients for this Contribution Program, are best suited to provide culturally-safe reintegration services and respond to the needs of Indigenous offenders, including and section 81 section 84 release planning.

By funding projects that are made by and for the Indigenous community, services will better address needs that are identified by the community. Ultimately, this will enhance CSC's capacity to support the successful reintegration of Indigenous offenders and will increase the participation of Indigenous communities in responding to the needs of Indigenous offenders, while developing solutions that address their own community safety needs.

Initiative: Explore accommodation options to support Indigenous Women Offenders

Lead department(s): Correctional Service of Canada
Description: Funding for new partnerships or the expansion of existing contracts are analyzed on an annual basis. Funding requirements would be obtained via CSC's existing mechanisms.
Calls for Justice: 14.1, 14.8
Calls for Miskotahâ: N/A

Planned Milestones 2022-23

Planned for 2022-23

In 2022-23, CSC will pursue its ongoing efforts for development of a five-year Section 81 Strategy and address ongoing challenges of existing section 81 Healing Lodges.

In addition, CSC will also continue its consultations with Indigenous organizations and community partners to obtain culturally situated advice on the implementation of Bill C-15: An Act respecting the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and through self-government agreements. Specifically, with passing of Bill C-15, CSC must begin the process to understand how its policies and structures align with UNDRIP. The National Indigenous Advisory Committee (NIAC) will continue to be consulted to ensure future negotiations and agreements are informed by the experiences of Indigenous people and survivors and to identify and eliminate barriers to the creation of additional capacity at healing lodges within the federal correctional system.

In 2022-2023, the strategy is in the development stages and it is anticipated that it will be approved by year-end.

Update on 2022-23

CSC is nearing completion of the draft of the five-year Section 81 Strategy with implementation scheduled to start in 2023, and continues to address ongoing challenges of existing section 81 Healing Lodges.

CSC has continued in its consultations with Indigenous organizations and community partners to obtain culturally situated advice on the implementation of Bill C-15, An Act respecting the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. Recently, an update on the status of CSC's adaptation to the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples in CSC was given to the NIAC in November 2022.

Coming up in 2023-24

CSC will continue efforts to complete and implement the five-year Section 81 Strategy in 2023-2024.

Planned Engagement for 2022-23

National partners

For the development of a five-year Section 81 Strategy, the partners are Indigenous leaders and organizations, other federal government departments.

For the analysis of indicators the partners are internal Correctional Service of Canada partners.

Regional and community-based partners

Internal partners include district directors, who are responsible for community corrections operations across the country. Based on the needs / gaps identified, community-based partners who can provide services will need to be identified.

Update on 2022-23 Engagement

Internal partners have been consulted on the five-year Section 81 Strategy, and continue to provide the necessary input required to bring the strategy to implementation in 2023. Internal partners will continue to be consulted as necessary. Horizontal engagement across other federal government departments, as well as with Indigenous leaders and organizations, will be required to implement the strategy.

Calls for Justice/Calls for Miskotahâ

The milestone of developing a five-year section 81 strategy will address Call to Justice 14.1by expanding the utilization of section 81 agreements. Enhancing capacity within Healing Lodges to provide appropriate and effective interventions focused on transition to the community and preparation of Indigenous persons for release remains a priority for CSC.

CSC recognizes that there continues to be a need for additional healing lodge capacity for Indigenous federally-sentenced persons, particularly in under-served geographies in the eastern and northern regions of Canada. While healing lodges in the western regions are open to all federally-sentenced men or women, irrespectively of their home communities, the challenges of relocating to distant provinces and the loss of connection to family, community, language and culture present significant barriers to successful community reintegration. CSC is exploring options to address the pressing need for greater healing lodge capacity, including opportunities for supplementary funding. CSC continues to reach out to Indigenous leaders and organizations, as well as horizontal partners in the federal government to identify potential partners for this endeavor.

Initiative: Remote Passenger Rail Program

Lead department(s): Transport Canada
Funding: $43M/3 years (Budget 2021) plus an additional one-time funding of $49.9M
Description: Funding proposed for Transport Canada to continue the Remote Passenger Rail Program, which supports the provision of passenger rail service to certain remote communities with no alternative means of surface transportation.
Calls for Justice: 4.8, 17.9
Calls for Miskotahâ: N/A

Planned Milestones 2022-23

Planned for 2022-23

This initiative in Budget 2021 provides ongoing funding for Indigenous owned rail lines in two rural and remote regions where alternative, year-round transportation is limited or unavailable - Sept-Iles and Schefferville in Quebec and The Pas and Pukatawagan in Manitoba. Ongoing funding of the Remote Passenger Rail Program between Sept-Iles and Schefferville in Quebec and The Pas and Pukatawagan in Manitoba in the form of contributions for:

Operating expenditures for the remote passenger rail services not provided by VIA Rail Canada (VIA); and
Capital expenditures for owners of railway lines where federally-supported (by Transport Canada or VIA) remote passenger rail services operate.

Update on 2022-23

Ongoing funding as planned.

Coming up in 2023-24

Ongoing funding as planned.

Planned Engagement for 2022-23

National and Regional/Community-Based Partners

Keewatin Rail Company and Tshiuetin Rail Transportation (Indigenous Passenger Rail Services Providers)

Update on 2022-23 Engagement

Continuation of funding to Indigenous Passenger Rail Services Providers

Calls for Justice/Calls for Miskotahâ

This initiative supports Calls for Justice 4.8 and 17.9 which oriented towards the provision of funding for safe and affordable transit and transportation services for Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA people living in remote or rural communities.

Initiative: Indigenous Women's Entrepreneurship (IWE), with the National Aboriginal Capital Corporations Association (NACCA)

Lead department(s): Indigenous Services Canada
Funding: $22M/3 years
Description: The National Aboriginal Capital Corporations Association (NACCA) is designing and implementing the IWE which includes gender-specific and culturally appropriate tools and resources for Indigenous women to undertake entrepreneurship to build or grow a business. This financing is linked to expanding an existing initiative to offer increased support for Indigenous women entrepreneurs.
Calls for Justice: 4.2
Calls for Miskotahâ: 8

Planned Milestones 2022-23

Planned for 2022-23

Year 1 activities (training, workshops, mentorships and micro-loans) will continue through year 2. Training designed for dedicated Business Support Officers in year 1 will be delivered in years 2 and 3. The IWE will continue to host workshops for Indigenous women entrepreneurs and virtual regional and national peer mentorship circles, issue micro-loans and conduct training and information on a variety of topics to support Indigenous women.

Workshops and training sessions have been planned covering a range of topics including writing business proposals and application training, management and organization tools and computer training. 125 workshops are targeted to be delivered over the next fiscal year.

In addition, the Aboriginal Entrepreneurship program is undergoing both an ISC evaluation and extensive consultations with Indigenous partners in 2022-23 in preparation for a program re-design.

Update on 2022-23

NACCA has been developing and implementing Year 1 activities and have:

Identified criteria and implemented a 6 month mentorship program to connect and support entrepreneurs.
Started issuing microloans with 61 issued to date.
Organized workshops for 292 participants on various topics such as writing business proposals and application training, management and organization tools and computer training.

Coming up in 2023-24

Year 2 activities will be continuously implemented throughout year 3 and further refined where needed. After the first year of implementation, IWE has received feedback from a few Métis Capital Corporations (MCC) that the program may not be meeting the Métis Women requirements to fully benefit from the NACCA Indigenous Women Entrepreneur Initiative funding. NACCA and ISC are working with partners on the redesign to best incorporate the feedback. An evaluation of the AEP currently underway, will provide recommendations on how to target new funding in the most beneficial way, including to Indigenous women entrepreneurs.

Planned Engagement for 2022-23

National and Regional/Community-Based Partners

The Indigenous Women's Entrepreneurship initiative is led by the National Aboriginal Capital Corporations Association (NACCA). Over the past 30+ years, NACCA has established itself as a long-standing, trusted partner of Canada. In 2015, as part of the effort to devolve programming to Indigenous partners, NACCA assumed administration of the Aboriginal Entrepreneurship Program (AEP). Until the recent shift towards distinctions-based delivery, NACCA distributed all AEP program funding to Aboriginal Financial Institutions (AFI) and Métis Capital Corporations (MCC). Since 2019, the MCCs assumed administration of 2 of the 5 streams of the AEP to deliver their share of the program. The IWE initiative is administered through NACCA, and as such NACCA will be continuing active outreach to AFIs and MCCs about the IWE Initiative and programming. They are planning additional promotion activities that will communicate IWE programming to Indigenous women across Canada. Any AFI or MCC can contact NACCA and can apply to participate at any point.

Update on 2022-23 Engagement

NACCA and ISC has received feedback that the IWE may not be meeting the Métis Women requirements for a few of the MCCs to fully benefit from the NACCA Indigenous Women Entrepreneur Initiative funding. Two MCCs are using the program and working with NACCA. Furthermore, the Métis Nation may be seeking to engage on the design and development of programs and services targeted specifically to Métis Women Entrepreneurs.

Calls for Justice/Calls for Miskotahâ

The IWE and AEP provide Indigenous women with a path to entrepreneurship and so address Call for Justice 4.2 which asks governments to uphold the rights of Indigenous women and girls to have services and infrastructure that meet their social and economic needs. They also address Call for Miskotahâ 8 which requires action on the part of the federal (and provincial) government to eliminate the social and economic barriers that create disparities between Métis women and other women in Canada.

IWE and AEP also address Call for Miskotahâ 8 which requires action on the part of the federal (and provincial) government to eliminate the social and economic barriers that create disparities between Métis women and other women in Canada. IWE and AEP address this call by providing targeted economic supports for Indigenous entrepreneurs and Indigenous women entrepreneurs. The programs specifically aim to eliminate the barriers and answer the needs of these groups in order to reduce the economic disparities and Métis women are eligible through both programs

Initiative: Bolstering the Capacity of Indigenous Women's and 2SLGBTQQIA+ Organizations

Lead department(s): Women and Gender Equality Canada
Funding: $55M/5 years
Description: Bolstering the capacity of Indigenous women and 2SLGBTQQIA+ organizations to provide gender-based violence prevention programming aimed at addressing the root causes of violence against Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people.
Calls for Justice: 1.3, 1.5, 1.6
Calls for Miskotahâ: N/A

Planned Milestones 2022-23

Planned for 2022-23

Budget 2021 provided $55 million over five years to bolster the capacity of Indigenous women and 2SLGBTQQIA+ organizations to provide gender-based violence prevention programming aimed at addressing the root causes of violence. This investment is the first investment to advance the National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence, and it is a key initiative under the Federal Pathway to Address Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ People.

WAGE held a call for proposals from January 27 to March 10, 2022. Funding agreements will be put in place beginning in fall 2022.

Update on 2022-23

Implementation of funded projects began in fall 2022.

Projects in BC, Alberta, Ontario, Quebec, Newfoundland and Labrador, Yukon, and the Northwest Territories have been announced as of February 2023.

Coming up in 2023-24

WAGE personnel will continue to work with Indigenous organizations to support the implementation of funded projects.

Planned Engagement for 2022-23

National and Regional/Community-Based Partners

The partners are Women and Gender Equality Canada's Indigenous Women's Circle, Indigenous women's organizations, organizations serving Indigenous peoples, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ organizations that provide gender-based violence prevention programming.

Members of the Indigenous Women's Circle (IWC) represent a broad range of sectors and include First Nations, Métis, Inuit women as well as representation from youth and Elders. Representatives are from all parts of the country.

Update on 2022-23 Engagement

WAGE engaged with the Indigenous Women's Circle (IWC) and received guidance to prioritize funding and support to grassroots organizations prior to the launch of the 2022 call for proposals.

Calls for Justice/Calls for Miskotahâ

This initiative supports Calls for Justice 1.3, 1.5 and 1.6 by increasing the capacity of Indigenous not-for-profit organizations to prevent or address GBV against Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people.

Initiative: Elementary and Secondary Education on Reserve – Additional Funding

Lead department(s): Indigenous Services Canada
Funding: $726M/ 5 years and $188M ongoing (starting in 2021-22)
Description: Additional resources for refining the interim regional funding formulas in critical areas such as student transportation; ensuring funding for First Nations schools remains predictable from year to year; and increasing First Nations control over First Nations education by developing and concluding more regional education agreements.
Calls for Justice: 2.3, 4.4
Calls for Miskotahâ: N/A

Planned Milestones 2022-23

Planned for 2022-23

Based on the significant work to implement Budget 2021 investments in 2021-2022 (e.g. refining current funding models with real First Nation data, such as for transportation, and the introduction of measures to stabilize changes in funding over time (e.g. changing student counts or provincial rates), ISC will continue to implement these investments on an on-going basis

Update on 2022-23

ISC has implemented the Budget 2021 funding announcements for on-reserve education. As a result, First Nations children are being better supported through the new funding approach for kindergarten to grade 12 schools on-reserve, with a 74% national funding increase between 2015 to 2016 and 2021 to 2022.

ISC was able to support the conclusion of a regional education agreement with the Quebec First Nations Education Council.

Coming up in 2023-24

ISC will continue to implement these investments on an on-going basis.

There continues to be expressed interest from First Nations or mandated First Nations education organizations to develop and renew regional education agreements with ISC and the Government of Canada that will continue to advance work focused on targeted and localized control over their own education.

Planned Engagement for 2022-23

National and Regional/Community-Based Partners

Engagement with First Nation partners on the implementation of these new investments are ongoing through established regional technical tables as well as the Assembly of First Nations' National Indian Education Council and the Chiefs' Committee on Education. ISC will work with CIRNAC to engage with Modern Treaty Partners and self-governing and modern treaty First Nations.

Update on 2022-23 Engagement

ISC continues to work with partners to implement these additional investments on an ongoing basis in order to refine and stabilize funding models. Furthermore, Government of Canada and First Nations partners are developing regional education agreements that respond to the different needs and priorities of First Nations communities. This aligns with the principle of First Nations control of First Nations education, since First Nations are best placed to make decisions on their priorities or where they see the greatest need.

Calls for Justice/Calls for Miskotahâ

This initiative supports Call for Justice 1.1 regarding equitable access to education, amongst other items, for Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA people through comprehensive educational supports for First Nations children on reserve. It also supports

Call for Justice 2.3 related to support for Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA people to restore, reclaim, and revitalize their cultures and languages through a new funding approach that includes additional support for language and cultural programming for students attending First Nations operated schools. Finally, this initiative supports Call for Justice 4.4 related to access to resources, which includes education, for Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA people within Indigenous communities, specifically within First Nations communities.

Initiative: Before- and after-school programming for First Nations students on reserve

Lead department(s): Indigenous Services Canada
Funding: $515M/5 years, and $112M ongoing (starting in 2021-2022)
Description: In order to provide a continuum of educational and learning supports, this funding is being implemented as an enhancement to ISC's Elementary and Secondary Education Program to support before and after-school programing for First Nations students on reserve.
Calls for Justice: 2.3, 4.4
Calls for Miskotahâ: N/A

Planned Milestones 2022-23

Planned for 2022-23

Building on the implementation in 2021-2022, ISC expanded the scope of before and after school programming to include a wider number of First Nations students living on reserve, including those attending provincial and private schools. Further discussions will take place through 2022 – 2023 to ensure that the funding methodology and implementation for before and after school programming to best suit the needs and priorities of First Nations.

Update on 2022-23

ISC has implemented the Budget 2021 funding announcement for before and after school programming.

Coming up in 2023-24

ISC will continue to implement these investments on an on-going basis.

Planned Engagement for 2022-23

National and Regional/Community-Based Partners

The partners are First Nations recipients funded through the Elementary and Secondary Education Program, as well as self-governing and modern treaty First Nations (subject to the provisions of their agreements).

Update on 2022-23 Engagement

ISC and First Nations partners at regional technical tables continue to discuss the adaptations within the funding methodology for before and after school programming.

Calls for Justice/Calls for Miskotahâ

This initiative supports Calls for Justice 1.1 and 4.4 related to government-supported, equitable access to education, amongst other items, for Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA people, by providing support for comprehensive educational supports for First Nations children on reserve. It also supports

Call for Justice 2.3 which seeks government support for Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA people to restore, reclaim, and revitalize their cultures and identities. The funding for before and after school programming for First Nations students on reserve is being implemented as an enhancement to ISC's existing Elementary and Secondary Education Program, which also provides additional support for language and cultural programming for students attending First Nations operated schools.

Initiative: Renewing Canada's Anti-Racism Strategy (CARS) and creating a NAP to Combat Hate

Lead department(s): Canadian Heritage
Funding: $85M/4 years, starting in 2022-23
Budget 2023: an additional $25.4 million over five years, starting in 2023-24, and $0.6 million ongoing, to continue to support Canada's Anti-Racism Strategy
Description: Recognizing that Canada's fight against racism is far from over, Budget 2022 proposed to provide $85 million over four years, starting in 2022-23, to the Department of Canadian Heritage to support the work underway to launch a new Anti-Racism Strategy and National Action Plan on Combatting Hate. This funding will support community projects that ensure that Black and racialized Canadians, and religious minorities have access to resources that support their full participation in the Canadian economy, while also raising awareness of issues related to racism and hate in Canada.
Calls for Justice: 1.4, 2.6, 9.1, 9.2, 16.27, 17.8
Calls for Miskotahâ: NA

Planned Milestones 2022-23

Planned for 2022-23

Canada's Anti-Racism Strategy will sunset in 2022. However, several key initiatives, activities and actions from the Strategy will continue to be implemented in 2022-23 through funding from the 2020 Fall Economic Statement (FES). While the exact timeframe is to be determined, the Department will present options for a new Anti-Racism Strategy and for the development of a National Action Plan (NAP) to Combat Hate.
Targeted community-based projects will continue to be delivered to communities through ARAP and CSMARI to confront racism and discrimination, promote engagement on multiculturalism and diversity, and strengthens research and evidence. ARAP projects will also focus on addressing systemic barriers to employment, justice and social participation for Indigenous peoples, racialized communities, and religious minorities.
The Department will focus on disseminating the data and evidence products funded under Canada's Anti-Racism Strategy. This includes research conducted by Justice Canada, Public Safety Canada, and Statistics Canada, to better understand barriers faced by Indigenous peoples, racialized communities, and religious minorities.
The Federal Anti-Racism Secretariat will continue to demonstrate leadership in overseeing a coherent whole-of-government approach on combating racism and discrimination, ensuring comprehensive and coordinated actions with measurable impact, and fostering continuing dialogue with provinces, territories, and diverse communities in Canada. The Federal Secretariat supports decision-making through an anti-racism lens to ensure that all programs, policies, services and legislation consider the needs and realities of all peoples in Canada. It will also continue to engage with communities with lived experience of racism and discrimination to better inform Government of Canada efforts to combat systemic racism and increase equitable access and services to First Nations, Métis, Inuit, Black, Asian, racialized and religious minority communities.
The Federal Anti-Racism Secretariat will continue working in tandem with PCH International to drive the delivery of deliverables related to Diversity and Inclusion as set out in the Canada-U.S. Roadmap, including the creation of a North American Partnership on Racial Equity and Inclusion, which was also committed to at the 2021 North American Leaders' Summit. The Federal Secretariat will also remain engaged in international activities with like-minded partners on issues related to equity-deserving groups as defined by Canada's Anti-Racism Strategy.
The Federal Anti-Racism Secretariat will continue working in tandem with PCH International to drive the delivery of deliverables related to Diversity and Inclusion as set out in the Canada-U.S. Roadmap, including the creation of a North American Partnership on Racial Equity and Inclusion, which was also committed to at the 2021 North American Leaders' Summit. The Federal Secretariat will also remain engaged in international activities with like-minded partners on issues related to equity-deserving groups as defined by Canada's Anti-Racism Strategy.

Update on 2022-23

Plans for 2023-24 are dependent on the launch of Canada's Anti-Racism Strategy and the development of Canada's Action Plan on Combatting Hate. As such, we will have to wait until a later update to provide this information, both in general planned updates, and in engagement.

Planned Engagement for 2022-23

Update on 2022-23 Engagement

Canada's Anti-Racism Strategy continues to be implemented in 2022-23 This initiative is still in development, and there are currently no details for planned engagement. This information will be available at a later date.

Calls for Justice/Calls for Miskotahâ

The following Calls to Justice are related broadly to the mandate of anti-racism and anti-hate: 1.4, 2.6, 9.1, 9.2, 16.27, and 17.8. However, it has yet to be determined whether these calls will directly relate to the work of Canada's Anti-Racism Strategy or Canada's National Action Plan on Combatting Hate. As such, updates at a later date may reveal direct linkages, once each is more defined and planned actions are established.

Initiative: Enhancing Reaching Home to provide longer term certainty for the organizations doing vitally important work across the country and ensure that our communities have the support they need to continue to prevent and address homelessness

Lead department(s): Infrastructure Canada
Funding: $562.2M/2 years, beginning in 2024-25
Description: Two years of top-up funding (2024-25 and 2025-26) for Reaching Home: Canada's Homelessness Strategy, a community-based program that supports local efforts to prevent and reduce homelessness in communities and regions across the country.
Calls for Justice: 4.1, 4.7, 12.4, 16.1, 16.18, 16.19, 18.25
Calls for Miskotahâ: 18, 23, 25, 26

Planned Milestones 2022-23

Planned for 2022-23

Secure funding authorities and amounts for post-2024 allocations, and communicate to recipients.

Update on 2022-23

No update.

Coming up in 2023-24

INFC will engage existing recipients on extending contribution agreements to permit the flow of incremental funding, as well as the next cycle of Reaching Home base funding.

Planned Engagement for 2022-23

National Partners (ongoing)

Provincial and territorial governments,
National Indigenous Homelessness Council,
National Indigenous Organizations (Assembly of First Nations, Métis National Council, Manitoba Métis Federation, Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami) and their affiliated organizations; and,
Other partners within the housing and homelessness sectors

Regional and Community-Based Partners (ongoing)

Reaching Home Community Entities and Community Advisory Boards (includes 37 communities and regions across Canada under the Indigenous Homelessness stream),
Modern Treaty Holders with provisions in their treaties related to the delivery of social services
Other partners within the housing and homelessness sectors

Update on 2022-23 Engagement

Continued to engage partners and funding recipients to amend existing agreements or negotiate the signature of new agreements to flow incremental Reaching Home funding (Budget 2021 funding for 2022-22 and 2023-24).
Worked with partners to identify potential projects eligible for Reaching Home funding.

Calls for Justice/Calls for Miskotahâ

This initiative supports calls oriented towards ensuring longer term certainty for Indigenous partners. Additional funding will allow for parties to continue to co-develop distinctions-based plans to address critical Infrastructure gaps and to improve socio-economic conditions to provide an opportunity for a good life and a safe, stable environment for Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people. It links to Calls for Justice 4.1, 4.7 and 12.4 by providing dedicated funding to support culturally-appropriate services that seek to prevent and reduce Indigenous homelessness. It also supports Call for Justice 16.1 by working with Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated, the Nunavut Government, Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami, and other Regions of Inuit Nunangat, and Calls for Justice 16.18 and 16.19 by providing funding for housing and homelessness supports in Inuit Nunangat. Finally, the program supports Call for Justice 18.25 through dedicated funding to support culturally-appropriate services that seek to prevent and reduce Indigenous homelessness.

In addition, this program supports Calls for Miskotahâ 8, 18, 23, 25 and 26 by providing distinctions-based funding to Métis partners to address homelessness.

Initiative: Conduct action research about what further measures could contribute to eliminating chronic homelessness in Canada

Lead department(s): Infrastructure Canada
Funding: $18.1M/3 years, beginning in 2022-23
Description: Action research will be conducted in a small number of sites across Canada, intended to inform the development of a broader strategy to eliminate chronic homelessness in Canada. The research will be used to identify and document persistent barriers to preventing and reducing chronic homelessness experienced by communities; and, test potential approaches to addressing persistent barriers, and document successes and challenges.
Calls for Justice: 4.1, 4.7, 12.4, 18.25
Calls for Miskotahâ: 18, 23, 25, 26

Planned Milestones 2022-23

Planned for 2022-23

Q1: Initial development of research design

Develop research design (aims, objectives, and scope of research)
Develop approach for site selection, including creation of preliminary shortlist

Q2: Site selection process

Develop site selection criteria
Secure approval of shortlisted sites

Q3: Engage with potential research sites and finalize site selection

Engage with PTs, shortlisted communities, Service Canada, the Canadian Alliance to End Homelessness and Indigenous partners
Develop research options and site recommendations for r approval
Initiate required contracting for developmental evaluators and summative researcher

Q4: Secure program implementation authorities and launch project co-development

Secure Cabinet approval of Budget 2022 funding
Facilitate co-development workshops to initiative co-development process of research projects with key partners.

Update on 2022-23

Cabinet approval obtained in spring 2023.
Eight communities have been selected for invitation to participate in the Action Research on Chronic Homelessness (ARCH) initiative. Work is underway to finalize funding agreements with Reaching Home partners in the selected sites, as well as with additional Indigenous partners in sites where there is no Indigenous-led organization delivering Reaching Home funding.

Coming up in 2023-24

Most projects are expected to launch in Summer 2023.
Support networks within and across sites will continue to be established.
Strategies on how to best share learnings will be developed with partners.

Planned Engagement for 2022-23

In the 2022-23 fiscal year, a number of engagements occurred to help identify potential research sites. This includes engaging with:

Select Reaching Home funding recipients receiving funding under the Designated Communities, Territorial Homelessness, and/or Indigenous Homelessness streams;
Local Indigenous partners in communities where there is not currently an Indigenous-led organization delivering Reaching Home funding.
Select provinces/territories;
Service Canada representatives; and,
Representatives from the Canadian Alliance to End Homelessness.

Update on 2022-23 Engagement

Indigenous partners were engaged as part of the site selection process in each of the shortlisted communities. The strength of Indigenous collaboration and partnerships within the communities was heavily considered in the site selection process.
The National Indigenous Homelessness Council, a network of Reaching Home Indigenous Community Entities and Indigenous Community Advisory Board representatives, was engaged to provide information on the initiative, answer questions, and invite feedback on the process.
Upon selection of sites, Indigenous partners were re-engaged to discuss proposed projects and whether they align with Indigenous priorities in the community, the role Indigenous partners would like to take in the project, and to discuss next steps.
The co-development process of projects was initiated through co-development workshops including all Reaching Home funding recipients (i.e., organizations delivering funding through the Designated Communities, Territorial Homelessness, and/or Indigenous Homelessness stream), additional Indigenous partners as appropriate, various additional community partners, and different orders of government.

Calls for Justice/Calls for Miskotahâ

This initiative supports calls oriented towards ensuring long term certainty for Indigenous partners through supporting community level research projects. The research will allow for parties to identify, document and begin to understand the barriers to preventing and reducing chronic homelessness. The results will address critical Infrastructure gaps and improve socio-economic conditions to provide an opportunity for a good life and a safe, stable environment for Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people. It links to Calls for Justice 4.1, 4.7 and 12.4 by providing funding to support the establishment of services that seek to prevent and reduce Indigenous homelessness. Finally, the program supports Call for Justice 18.25 through actioning research that will investigate the risks and realities of 2SLGBTQQIA individuals experiencing homelessness.

Initiative: First Nations Housing on Reserves

Lead Department: Indigenous Services Canada
Funding: $2.4 billion/5 years
Description: Budget 2022 proposes to provide a further $4 billion over seven years, starting in 2022-23, including $2.4 billion over five years to support First Nations housing on reserves.
Calls for Justice: 4.1, 4.6, 4.7, 18.25
Calls for Miskotahâ: N/A

Planned Milestones 2022-23

Coming up in 2022-23

Advancement and implementation of First Nations National Housing and Related Infrastructure Strategy
Funding delivery and implementation of housing projects, by First Nations partners

Update on 2022-23

In support of a key pillar under the First Nations Housing and Related Infrastructure Strategy, Nations-led skills and capacity enhancement research was produced and disseminated. Resulting recommendations are informing ISC's approach to First Nations Housing Capacity Enhancement Initiative. Membership in the First Nation's Housing Professional's Association was expanded, along with networking opportunities, and increased participation in the First Nation-led certification program increased. (source: FNHPA proposal 2022-2023)

Q1: Guided by the First Nations Housing and Related Infrastructure Strategy and ongoing engagement on governance and delivery, skills and capacity, and funding and financing pillars, ISC will focus on implementing a regional approach to capacity enhancement in housing, including housing manager subsidy allocation methodology and next steps;
Q2: Identification of recommendations and way forward on alternative financing options for First Nation on-reserve housing;
Q3: Generation of research and information to support First Nation decision-making around improving housing staffing issues, education, communications and housing wellness program activities are under development. (Source: FNHPA proposal for 2023-2024);
Q4: Implementation of improved integration of GBA Plus considerations and performance measurement information into the planning and delivery of infrastructure programming across the Capital Facilities and Maintenance Program's four main infrastructure programs (Water and Wastewater, Housing, School Facilities and Other Community Infrastructure);
Advancing work on alternative financing options for First Nation on-reserve housing.

Coming up in 2023-24

Generation of research and information to support First Nation decision-making around improving housing staffing issues, education, communications and housing wellness program activities are under development. (Source: FNHPA proposal for 2023-2024)

Planned Engagement for 2022-23

National and Regional/Community-Based Partners

ISC will work closely with First Nations partners on a distinctions basis to deliver and support implementation of this funding, drawing on past engagement and co-development to inform Budget 2022 investment delivery. ISC will also continue to work with all other relevant federal departments to support a whole-of-government approach to addressing First Nations housing needs.

Update on 2022-23 Engagement

First Nations organizations have been engaged on projects supporting skills and capacity enhancement and alternative financing. Regional responsibility centers are engaged in the development of regional approaches to skills and capacity enhancement, including a housing manager subsidy. AFN continues to be engaged through the Joint Working Group on Housing and Related Infrastructure, and advancing the First Nations Housing and Related Infrastructure Strategy with ISC and other Government of Canada partners.

The 10-year National First Nations Housing and Related Infrastructure Strategy co-developed by ISC, CMHC and INFC, and engagement on B2022 funding was advanced through regular meetings with AFN and federal partners, including meetings of the Joint Working Group on Housing and Related Infrastructure.

Calls for Justice/Calls for Miskotahâ

4.1 ISC, via B2022 targeted funds, is working to ensure that Indigenous Peoples have services and infrastructure that meet their social and economic needs including access to safe housing.

4.6 ISC via approach to improved integration of GBA+ analysis for B2022 funding, is helping to ensure construction of new housing and the provision of repairs for existing housing to meet the housing needs of Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA people so that Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA people have access to housing that is safe, appropriate to geographic and cultural needs, and available wherever they reside, whether in urban, rural, remote, or Indigenous communities

18.25 ISC engagement processes and funded projects continue to support the inclusion of 2SLGBTQQIA individuals and organizations in the identification of on-reserve housing need, through the participation of 2-Spirit advisory councils in FN governance and planning. Improved integration and data collection approaches are under development to better track and inform work in this area.

Initiative: Budget 2022 – Inuit Housing Investment

Lead Department: Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada
Funding: $845 million/7 years
Description: Budget 2022 proposes to provide $845 million over seven years, starting in 2022-23, to support Inuit housing.
Calls for Justice: 4.1, 4.6, 4.7, 16.19, 18.25
Calls for Miskotahâ:

Planned Milestones 2022-23

Planned for 2022-23

Advancement and implementation of distinctions-based housing strategies (i.e., Inuit Nunangat Housing Strategy)
Funding delivery and implementation of housing projects, primarily by Indigenous partners

Update on 2022-23

Budget 2022 Inuit housing investments represent the first that are being delivered to all four Inuit land claims organizations and will accelerate progress to address housing needs. Investments to Inuit land claims organizations are delivered through grant funding agreements ensuring flexibility for Inuit-led housing based on Inuit-determined needs.

Coming up in 2023-24

Advancement and implementation of the Inuit Nunangat Housing Strategy
Finalization of housing needs assessment analysis and comparison

Planned Engagement for 2022-23

National and Regional/Community-Based Partners

ISC and CIRNAC will work closely with Indigenous partners on a distinctions basis to deliver and support implementation of this funding (First Nations on reserve, Inuit, Métis, Self-Governing and Modern Treaty communities). The departments draw on past engagement and co-development to inform Budget 2022 investment delivery. ISC and CIRNAC will also continue to work with all other relevant federal departments to support a whole-of-government approach to addressing Indigenous housing needs.

Update on 2022-23 Engagement

Through the Inuit-Crown Partnership Committee, Inuit have worked with the Government of Canada to co-develop the 2019 Inuit Nunangat Housing Strategy with the goal of improving housing outcomes in Inuit Nunangat in line with those for the rest of Canada. CIRNAC and other Government departments will continue to work with Inuit partners on the implementation of the Strategy, including work to further address identified gaps and challenges.

Calls for Justice/Calls for Miskotahâ

Inuit housing investments align with Calls for Justice 4.1, 4.6, 4.7, 16.19, 18.25. The overall goal of these direct investments and the implementation of the Inuit Nunangat Housing Strategy is to improve housing outcomes in Inuit Nunangat in line with outcomes for the rest of Canada.

Initiative: Métis Housing Investment

Lead Department: Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada
Funding: $190.2 million/7 years
Description: Budget 2022 proposes to provide $190.2 million over seven years, starting in 2022-23, to support Métis housing.
Calls for Justice: 4.1, 4.6, 4.7, 16.19, 18.25
Calls for Miskotahâ:

Planned Milestones 2022-23

Planned for 2022-23

Advancement and implementation of distinctions-based housing strategies (i.e., Métis Nation Housing Strategy)
Funding delivery and implementation of housing projects, primarily by Indigenous partners.

Update on 2022-23

Budget 2022 Métis housing investments are delivered through grant funding agreements ensuring flexibility for Métis-led housing based on Métis-determined needs.

Coming up in 2023-24

Advancement and implementation of the Métis Nation Housing Strategy.

Planned Engagement for 2022-23

National and Regional/Community-Based Partners

ISC and CIRNAC will work closely with Indigenous partners on a distinction- based approach to deliver funding and support its implementation (i.e., to First Nations on reserve, Inuit, Métis, Self-Governing and Modern Treaty communities). Departments draw on past engagement and co-development to inform Budget 2022 investment delivery. ISC and CIRNAC will also continue to work with all other relevant federal departments to support a whole-of-government approach to addressing Indigenous housing needs.

Update on 2022-23 Engagement

Through the Canada-Métis Nation Permanent Bilateral Mechanism, Métis Nation partners and the Government of Canada finalized the Métis Nation Housing Strategy in 2018, with the goal of reducing the core housing need in Métis communities. Collaboration with Governing Members of the Métis National Council occurs regularly through the Métis Housing and Homelessness Technical Working Group, and bilaterally with the Manitoba Métis Federation, to address the housing needs of Métis communities.

Calls for Justice/Calls for Miskotahâ

Budget 2022 housing investments support Métis-led housing projects to be directed by Métis-determined needs and priorities. In doing so, it can support Calls for Justice 4.1 (access to safe housing); 4.6 (construction of new housing and the provision of repairs for existing housing); 4.7 and 16.19 (transition homes, second-stage housing); and 18.25 (housing and housing supports).

Initiative: Budget 2022 – Self-Governing and Modern Treaty First Nations Housing Investment

Lead Department: Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada
Funding: $565 million/5 years
Description: The Self-Governing and Modern Treaty First Nations Housing Investment funded by Budget 2022, supports Self-Governing and Modern Treaty First Nations in addressing housing gaps in their communities in accordance with community priorities.
Calls for Justice: 4.1, 4.6, 4.7, 16.19, 18.25
Calls for Miskotahâ: N/A

Planned Milestones 2022-23

Planned for 2022-23

CIRNAC will amend fiscal agreements for all eligible recipients of the Budget 2022 Self-Governing and Modern Treaty First Nations Housing Investment to incorporate new funding.
All eligible Self-Governing and Modern Treaty First Nations will submit Action Plans to CIRNAC identifying how they intend to spend the Budget 2022 housing investment.

Update on 2022-23

Fiscal agreements for all eligible recipients of the 2022 Self-Governing and Modern Treaty First Nations Housing Investment have been amended.
Most Self-Governing and Modern Treaty First Nations have submitted Action Plans identifying how they intend to spend the Budget 2022 housing investment. The remainder are expected to submit their Action Plans in early Q1 2023-24.

Coming up in 2023-24

Continued funding provided to Self-Governing and Modern Treaty First Nations through their fiscal agreements.

Planned Engagement for 2022-23

National and Regional/Community-Based Partners

CIRNAC will lead engagement with Self-Governing and Modern Treaty First Nations to collaboratively develop an appropriate and equitable funding allocation approach.
CIRNAC will continue to engage with Self-Governing and Modern Treaty First Nations bilaterally and through existing engagement tables to amend fiscal agreements and to support partners in addressing housing needs.

Update on 2022-23 Engagement

Calls for Justice/Calls for Miskotahâ

Housing funding for Self-Governing and Modern Treaty First Nations provided through Budget 2022 is delivered through grants that are designed to maximize flexibility in order to meet community priorities. Self-Governing and Modern Treaty First Nations may choose to invest housing funding to support safe housing, new construction and maintenance, shelters and transitional housing, and homeless shelters with dedicated beds for 2SLGBTQQIA people. This may have a positive impact on Calls for Justice 4.1, 4.6, 4.7, and 18.25, respectively.

Initiative: Advancing Economic Reconciliation in the Natural Resource Sector: Renewal of IAMC-Line 3 and IAMC-TMX (which includes IAMC-TMX Temporary Work Camps & Influx of Workers Initiative)

Lead Department: Natural Resources Canada
Funding: A portion of the $27.9M NRCan received for Trans Mountain and Line 3 IAMCs over two years, starting in 2022-23, will support the IAMC-TMX Socioeconomic Subcommittee's (SESC) Temporary Work Camps and & Influx of Workers Initiative.
Description: In 2017, NRCan co-developed the Indigenous Advisory and Monitoring Committee for the Trans Mountain Expansion and Existing Pipeline (also known as the IAMC-TMX) with Indigenous partners, in response to a request from communities to the Prime Minister. The Committee brings together 13 Indigenous and six senior federal representatives to provide advice to regulators and to monitor the Trans Mountain Expansion Project (TMX) and existing pipeline. A key priority of the Committee is identifying and addressing the impacts of temporary work camps and the influx of workers. The IAMC-TMX also monitors the economic participation of Indigenous peoples (procurement, employment, training, etc.) in the project and supports the capacity of Indigenous communities to participate in these economic opportunities. In 2021-22, the SESC, alongside Indigenous community representatives, federal regulators and Trans Mountain, co-developed three regional initiatives designed, in part, to strengthen Indigenous monitoring and management of socioeconomic, cultural, and health and wellbeing risks and effects associated with TMEP's five work camps in British Columbia, and a significant influx of transient workers using temporary accommodations in Alberta. The SESC identified key issues and priorities in relation to the socioeconomic effects of major resource projects on Indigenous communities through research carried out in collaboration with Indigenous communities in British Columbia (the Fraser Valley) and Alberta (Yellowhead region).
Calls for Justice: 13.1, 13.2, 13.3, 13.4, 13.5
Calls for Miskotahâ: N/A

Planned Milestones 2022-23

Update on 2022-23

Throughout fiscal year 2022-23, the Committee:

Continued to strengthen the capacity of Indigenous communities to participate directly in socioeconomic, cultural, and health and well-being effects monitoring at community-led and regional levels through the three regional initiatives;
Identified research gaps related to socioeconomic effects monitoring and management; and
Compiled wise practices and lessons learned from work undertaken by the SESC for the purposes of advising IAMC-TMX policies, specifically those focused on addressing the socioeconomic, cultural and health and wellbeing impacts of temporary work camps and influx of transient workers.

Coming up in 2023-24

In fiscal year 2023-24, the Committee will continue to support regional initiatives and conduct studies on topics that serve to enhance community stewardship regarding socioeconomic effects monitoring and management.

Planned Engagement for 2022-23

Regional and Community partners

The IAMC-TMX is a co-developed initiative with Indigenous and federal partners that collaborates with and serves Indigenous communities potentially impacted by the Trans Mountain Expansion Project and existing pipeline. The SESC, through the Temporary Work Camp and Influx of Transient Workers initiative, engages with affected Indigenous communities through its three regional initiatives in BC (Fraser Valley), BC (Interior) and Alberta, all focused on addressing concerns associated with TMX's five work camps in British Columbia and the high influx of transient workers using temporary accommodation in Alberta.

Federal partners engaged on the Temporary Work Camp and Influx of Transient Workers initiatives includes the Canada Energy Regulator, Indigenous Services Canada, and the Department of Fisheries and Oceans.

Update on 2022-23 Engagement

Throughout 2022-23, the SESC continued to engage with affected Indigenous communities through monthly meetings with each of its three regional initiatives in BC (Fraser Valley), BC (Interior) and Alberta.

In 2022-23, the Committee's engagement broadened to include additional federal departments, such as CIRNAC and WAGE. This included working with CIRNAC to support the Committee's work to address concerns associated with temporary work camps and influx of workers.

Through the Committee's regional initiatives and research, Indigenous communities along the TMX Pipeline corridor continued to be actively engaged in the identification of priority areas of concern and the co-development of policy and programs focused on addressing the socioeconomic, cultural and health and wellbeing impacts of temporary work camps and influx of transient workers.

Calls for Justice/Calls for Miskotahâ

IAMC-TMX and the work of its Socio-economic subcommittee aligns with Calls for Justice 13.1-13.5, which calls upon all resource-extraction and development industries to consider the safety and security of Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people, as well as their equitable benefit in resource development projects.

Initiative: The National Housing Strategy (B2022)

Lead Department[s]: Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation
Description: The National Housing Strategy is a suite of initiatives that includes Rapid Housing Initiative – Round 3; The Rapid Housing Initiative aims to create new affordable housing for people and populations who are vulnerable.
Funding: $1.5B/2 years starting in 2022-2023
Calls for Justice: 4.1, 4.6, 12.4, 16.1, 16.18, 16.19, 18.25
Calls for Miskotahâ: 23, 25

Planned Milestones 2022-23

Planned for 2022-23

Update on 2022-23

The application window for RHI 3 closed in mid-March and CMHC is currently reviewing applications for the Projects Stream.

Coming up in 2023-24

Prioritization of submitted projects will continue, followed by signing of agreements and the beginning of construction. Construction is expected to continue for 18-24 months, with some units completing faster.

Planned Engagement for 2022-23

As the RHI announcement is an extension of current programming, no formal consultations or engagements were initiated, however ongoing feedback is informing adjustments to program delivery since its initial launch, including feedback from Indigenous organizations and governments. CMHC has made adjustments to the initiative based on the feedback including increasing the amount of time available to submit proposals and giving Indigenous proponents additional time to complete construction.

Update on 2022-23 Engagement

No updates.

Calls for Justice/Calls for Miskotahâ

National Housing Strategy initiative support Calls for Justice 4.1, 4.6, 4.7 12.4, 16.18 and 18.25 and Calls for Miskotahâ 25 and 26 These investments help to improve the housing conditions of all Canadians by increasing housing supply and availability, including for Indigenous women and girls. The Rapid Housing Initiative (RHI) in particular is intended to help address urgent housing needs of vulnerable Canadians, especially in the context of COVID-19, through the rapid construction of affordable housing. The RHI takes a human rights-based approach to housing, serving people experiencing or at risk of homelessness and other vulnerable people under the NHS, including: women and children fleeing domestic violence, seniors, young adults, Indigenous Peoples, people with disabilities, people experiencing mental health and addiction issues, veterans, LGBTQ2 individuals, racialized groups, and recent immigrants or refugees.

Initiative: The National Housing Strategy (B2022)

Lead Department[s]: Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation
Description: The National Housing Strategy is a suite of initiatives that includes the National Housing Co-Investment Fund (NHCF). Low-cost and forgivable loans for the construction, repair and revitalization of affordable housing.
Funding: advance $2.9 B so that all funds spent by 2025-2026
Calls for Justice: 4.1, 4.6, 12.4, 16.1, 16.18, 16.19, 18.25
Calls for Miskotahâ: 23, 25

Planned Milestones 2022-23

Planned for 2022-23

Budget 2022 proposed to advance $2.9 billion in funding, on a cash basis, under the National Housing Co-Investment Fund, so that all remaining funds will be spent by 2025-26. This will accelerate the creation of up to 4,300 new units and the repair of up to 17,800 units for the Canadians who need them most.
Budget 2022 also stated taking lessons from the Rapid Housing Initiative, the National Housing Co-Investment Fund will be made both more flexible and easier to access, including with more generous contributions and faster approvals.

Coming up in 2023-24

Ongoing collaboration through regional representatives with proponent, sectors/regions, and other partners for the National Housing Co-Investment Fund.

Planned Engagement for 2022-23

As NHCF funding continues to be in-demand, we will continue to work with stakeholders and proponents to direct remaining NHCF funding to projects that encourage and support affordable housing supply. Specific engagement activities are not established at this time.

Update on 2022-23 Engagement

Specific engagement activities are not established at this time.

Calls for Justice/Calls for Miskotahâ

National Housing Strategy initiatives support Calls for Justice 4.1, 4.6, 4.7 12.4, 16.18 and 18.25 and Calls for Miskotahâ 25 and 26. These investments help to improve the housing conditions of all Canadians by increasing housing supply and availability, including for Indigenous women and girls. Affordable housing serves people experiencing or at risk of homelessness and other vulnerable people under the NHS, including: women and children fleeing domestic violence, seniors, young adults, Indigenous Peoples, people with disabilities, people experiencing mental health and addiction issues, veterans, LGBTQ2 individuals, racialized groups, and recent immigrants or refugees.

Initiative: The National Housing Strategy (B2022)

Lead Department[s]: Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation
Description: The National Housing Strategy is a suite of initiatives that includes Co-Operative Housing Development
Funding: Reallocation of $1.5B for the creation of new Co-operative Housing Development Program
Description: Funding to expand co-op housing in Canada, including through the creation of a new Co-Operative Housing Development Program
Calls for Justice: 4.1, 4.6, 12.4, 16.1, 16.18, 16.19, 18.25
Calls for Miskotahâ: 23, 25

Planned Milestones 2022-23

Planned for 2022-23

For generations, co-ops have offered quality, affordable housing to Canadians, while empowering their members through inclusion, personal development, and security of tenure through their community-oriented model of housing.
Budget 2022 proposed to reallocate $500 million of funding on a cash basis from the National Housing Co-Investment Fund to launch a new Co-operative Housing Development Program aimed at expanding co-op housing in Canada.
This new program will be co-designed with the Co-operative Housing Federation of Canada and the co-operative housing sector.
Budget 2022 also proposed an additional $1 billion in loans to be reallocated from the Rental Construction Financing initiative to support co-op housing projects.
This will be the largest investment in building new co-op housing for more than 30 years., an estimated 6,000 units will be constructed.

Milestones for 2022-23

Ongoing co-development with CHF Canada and co-operative housing sector
CMHC, the Co-operative Housing Federation of Canada, and the co-op sector continued to co-design the Co-operative Housing Development Program
CMHC will work with the co-op sector to develop and launch the Co-operative Housing Development Program.

Planned Engagement for 2022-23

Update on 2022-23 Engagement

CMHC, the Co-operative Housing Federation of Canada, and the co-op sector continue to co-design the Co-operative Housing Development Program.

Calls for Justice/Calls for Miskotahâ

National Housing Strategy initiatives support Calls for Justice 4.1, 4.6, 4.7 12.4, 16.18 and 18.25 and Calls for Miskotahâ 25 and 26. These investments help to improve the housing conditions of all Canadians by increasing housing supply and availability, including for Indigenous women and girls. Affordable housing serves people experiencing or at risk of homelessness and other vulnerable people under the NHS, including: women and children fleeing domestic violence, seniors, young adults, Indigenous Peoples, people with disabilities, people experiencing mental health and addiction issues, veterans, LGBTQ2 individuals, racialized groups, and recent immigrants or refugees.

Initiative: The National Housing Strategy (B2022)

Lead Department[s]: Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation
Description: The National Housing Strategy is a suite of initiatives that includes: Direct support for those in housing Need
Lead department(s): Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation
Funding: $475M in 2022-23
Description: Supporting those struggling with housing costs, a one-time $500 payment.
Calls for Justice: 4.1, 4.6, 12.4, 16.1, 16.18, 16.19, 18.25
Calls for Miskotahâ: 23

Planned Milestones 2022-23

Planned for 2022-23

To further support those struggling with housing costs, Budget 2022 proposed to provide $475 million in 2022-23 to provide a one-time $500 payment to those facing housing affordability challenges.

Milestones for 2022-23

Q3: Tabling and Royal Assent of enabling legislation
Q3: Following the tabling of legislation, the CRA and CMHC will lead a campaign to encourage Canadians to get ready for the launch of the Dental Care Benefit and the one-time top-up to the Canada Housing Benefit.
Q3: Launch of CRA Application Portal and communications and marketing activities
Q3: Obtain financial authority.
Q4: Ongoing promotion and monitoring.

Update on 2022-23

The Rental Housing Benefit Act received Royal Assent on November 17, 2022. The CRA application portal began accepting applications on December 12, 2022 and closed on March 31, 2023.

Coming up in 2023-24

The application portal closed prior to the 2023-24 fiscal year. Activities in 2023-24 will be limited to reviewing and issuing payments for applications received prior to March 31, 2023 and any post-payment verification activities undertaken by the CRA.

Planned Engagement for 2022-23

Update on 2022-23 Engagement

A national communications and marketing campaign ran for the duration of the application window. The campaign included activities such as advertising, social media, and outreach to media, stakeholders and Members of Parliament and other federal departments.

Prior to launch, discussions were undertaken with organizations such as the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM), Canadian Housing and Renewal Association (CHRA), Canadian Alliance to End Homelessness, Prosper Canada, and Food Banks Canada, asking them to reach eligible renters through their extensive networks and/or direct community connections. Food Banks Canada and Community Food Centers Canada have delivered flyers on the benefit to local food banks across the country

Calls for Justice/Calls for Miskotahâ

The One-Time Top-Up to the Canada Housing Benefit provided affordability support to renters across Canada facing housing affordability challenges. This direct support supports Calls for Justice 4.1 and 12.4 to provide social and financial support to those who need it most and families in need.

Initiative: Affordable Housing in the North

Lead department(s): Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada
Funding: $150M/2 years
Description: Budget 2022 makes a commitment to flow $150 million to the territorial governments over two-years starting fiscal year 2022-23 to respond to their respective housing and infrastructure needs. Of this amount, $60 million would be provided to the Government of Nunavut; $60 million to the Government of the Northwest Territories; and $30 million to the Government of Yukon.
Calls for Justice: 4.1, 4.6, 4.7, 12.4, 16.1, 16.18, 16.19, 18.25
Calls for Miskotahâ: 23, 25

Planned Milestones 2022-23

Planned for 2022-23

Canada's Northern communities face unique housing needs due to higher construction costs, shorter construction seasons, infrastructure gaps, and the effects of climate change that are increasing as the North has been warming at roughly three times the global warming rate. The federal government is continuing to work with partners across Yukon, the Northwest Territories, and Nunavut to address the issues of housing availability and quality that disproportionately affect Northerners. The funds from this initiative will flow to recipients in Q2/Q3 of this fiscal year.

Funding recipients are required to develop an action plan outlining the use of their allotted funds, but the Action Plans are evergreen and it is up to the funding recipients to determine how the funds can be used. At this time, the funding recipients are still in the process of finalizing their respective Action Plans.

Update on 2022-23

The first allotment of Budget 22 funding $75 million ($30 million to Nunavut, $30 million to NWT and $15 million to the Yukon Government) has been flowed to recipients.

Coming up in 2023-24

It is expected that the remaining Budget 2022 commitment of $75 million($30 million to Nunavut, $30 million to NWT and $15 million to the Yukon Government) will be flowing to recipients in Q1 of 2023-24.

Planned Engagement for 2022-23

There are no upcoming engagements for this initiative as funding has already begun to flow.

Update on 2022-23 Engagement

There are no upcoming engagements for this initiative has the first installment of funding as outlined in Budget 2022 has flowed to recipients.

Calls for Justice/Calls for Miskotahâ

Affordable housing in the North support Calls for Justice 4.1, 4.6, 4.7 12.4, 16.18 and 18.25 and Calls for Miskotahâ 25 and 26. These investments help to improve the housing conditions of all Canadians including Northerners by increasing housing supply and availability, including for Indigenous women and girls.

Initiative: Advancing a National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence (GBV NAP)

Lead department(s): Women and Gender Equality Canada
Funding:$539.3M/5 years, starting in 2022-23
Description: The GBV NAP is a timely and necessary step to address the root causes and persistent gaps that remain in Canada to end GBV. It is a strategic framework for action, within and across jurisdictions, to support victims, survivors and their families, no matter where they live. It provides a common vision, principles, goals and pillars to guide efforts across the country. Under the GBV NAP, federal, provincial and territorial governments will be able to select from identified priority actions outlined to guide their responses, based on their own specific contexts and priorities. The GBV NAP is designed to adapt to evolving needs and emerging issues.
Calls for Justice: 1.5, 1.6
Calls for Miskotahâ: 5

Planned Milestones 2022-23

Planned for 2022-23

Budget 2022 committed $539.3 million over 5 years, starting in 2022-23 to enable provinces and territories to supplement and enhance services and supports within their jurisdictions to prevent gender-based violence and support survivors. This investment will help provinces and territories with their efforts to implement the forthcoming national action plan to end gender-based violence.

The intent is to finalize the GBV NAP and begin negotiations with the provinces and territories following formal endorsement by FPT Ministers in fall 2022.

Update on 2022-23

On November 9, 2022, FPT Ministers responsible for the Status of Women announced their endorsement of the National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence. Following the endorsement, negotiations with provinces and territories began to support the implementation of the GBV NAP.

Coming up in 2023-24

The Federal government will continue to work with PT partners to reach bilateral agreements to support the implementation of the National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence. Engagement with Indigenous partners, including National Indigenous Leaders and Representatives (NILRs) to inform the ongoing implementation of the GBV NAP will continue.

Planned Engagement for 2022-23

The National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence has been informed by engagement with civil society, Indigenous partners and community leaders, the Minister's Advisory Council on Gender-Based Violence, and over a thousand recommendations from stakeholders.
From 2020 to 2021, WAGE held over 11 engagements with Indigenous partners and community leaders and engaged National Indigenous Leaders and Representatives through its Federal-Provincial-Territorial forum in order to identify Indigenous priorities and recommendations for the GBV NAP.
During this time, WAGE also actively engaged with several organizations and representatives through the National Online sessions on Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls, including Indigenous 2SLGBTQQIA+ organizations and representatives.
Additionally, WAGE held over five consultations with members of its Indigenous Women's Circle to develop Pillar 4 – Indigenous-led approaches - and liaised closely with colleagues in the MMIWG secretariat to ensure alignment and complementarity between the GBV NAP and the MMIWG2S+ National Action Plan, something that Indigenous partners noted a need for throughout their engagement.
Indigenous partners as well as other stakeholders will continue to be engaged throughout 2022-23 and beyond to help support the broader implementation of the GBV NAP.
A technical briefing for National Indigenous Leaders and Representatives was held as part of the official launch of the GBV NAP in November 2022.

Update on 2022-23 Engagement

Engagement continues since the launch of the GBV NAP in November 2022, with ongoing discussions between WAGE Indigenous partners and NILRs, OGDs, and civil society stakeholders.

Discussions with Indigenous partners will be held in order to provide updates and engage on the ongoing implementation of the GBV NAP.

Calls for Justice/Calls for Miskotahâ

The National Action Plan to End GBV contributes to the Government of Canada's response to Calls for Justice 1.5 and 1.6.

While the GBV NAP applies more broadly to all people in Canada, it includes at-risk or underserved populations, no matter where they live. Pillar Four specifically reflects the importance of preventing and addressing GBV against Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people through Indigenous-led approaches. This pillar is well aligned with the MMIWG2S+ NAP and highlights the synergies and complementarities between the two national action plans.

Recognizing that First Nations, Inuit, and Métis have distinct identities, cultures, traditions, languages, intersectional identities (for example, Indigenous women and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people, Indigenous women with disabilities), and experience violence differently than non-Indigenous peoples, the GBV NAP reiterates the federal, provincial, and territorial governments' commitment to create and promote safety and transformative systemic and systems level changes with Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people. This change is supported through the alignment of the GBV NAP with the MMIWG2S+ NAP, ensuring that any programs, policies and/or services are complementary. Alignment of the two national action plans further ensures complementarity of actions and funding, clarity of accountability and coordination. The intent is that actions, funding, and accountability under the GBV NAP will complement those under the MMIWG2S+ NAP.

Furthermore, the GBV NAP responds to the MMIWG2S+ Calls for Justice and Truth and Reconciliation Commission's Calls to Action and recognizes that Indigenous Peoples will determine, develop, and implement initiatives, programming, and services for themselves, their families, and their communities, inclusive of urban, on reserve, rural, remote, and Northern communities.

Initiative: Federal 2SLGBTQI+ Action Plan

Lead department(s): Women and Gender Equality Canada
Funding:$100M/5 years starting in 2022-23
Description: Canada's first five-year 2SLGBTQI+ Action Plan (2022-23 to 2027-28) will be a coordinated, whole-of-government approach that seeks to improve 2SLGBTQI+ lives and contribute to a more equitable Canada. Its overall strategic objective is to advance rights and outcomes for 2SLGBTQI+ people in Canada
Calls for Justice: 1.5, 1.6
Calls for Miskotahâ: 5

Planned Milestones 2022-23

Planned for 2022-23

Q1: Continue to develop Federal 2SLGBTQI+ Action Plan, based on findings from the 2020-21 community engagement process with 2SLGBTQI+ communities.
Q2: Launch of first Federal 2SLGBTQI+ Action Plan (August 28, 2022), including 'Support Indigenous 2SLGBTQI+ resilience and resurgence' as a Priority Area with dedicated measures.
Q2: Budget 2022 allocated $100 million over five years, beginning 2022-23, to support the implementation of the Federal 2SLGBTQI+ Action Plan.
Q2: Adopting and encouraging the use of the more inclusive term and acronym 2SLGBTQI+ in the Government of Canada (previously LGBTQ2). The new acronym recognizes Two-Spirit communities as the first 2SLGBTQI+ communities.
Q3: Continue implementation of 2SLGBTQI+ Action Plan measures. This will include:
- Hiring a Two-Spirit Senior Advisor within the 2SLGBTQI+ Secretariat at WAGE, a position created through the 2SLGBTQI+ Action Plan. The hiring process is currently in progress.
- Launching federal interdepartmental governance structure to advance on Indigenous 2SLGBTQI+ issues across federal departments and agencies.
- Continue to deliver grants and contributions funding to 2SLGBTQI+ organizations, which will prioritize Indigenous 2SLGBTQI+ community organizations.
- Launch new 2SLGBTQI+ Community and Government of Canada Partnership Committee, which will include representation for Indigenous 2SLGBTQI+ communities.
Q4: Continue to deliver grants and contributions funding to 2SLGBTQI+ organizations, which will prioritize Indigenous 2SLGBTQI+ community organizations.
Q4: Work with Indigenous community leaders to undertake dedicated engagement with Indigenous 2SLGBTQI+ communities (please see right column).
Q4: Continue engagement with Indigenous 2SLGBTQI+ communities through 2SLGBTQI+ Community and Government of Canada Partnership Committee (please see right column).

Update on 2022-23

Q1: Continued to develop Federal 2SLGBTQI+ Action Plan, based on findings from the 2020-21 community engagement process with 2SLGBTQI+ communities.
Q2: Launched the first Federal 2SLGBTQI+ Action Plan, including 'Support Indigenous 2SLGBTQI+ resilience and resurgence' as a Priority area with dedicated measures.
Q2: Received $100 million through five years, beginning in 2022-23 through Budget 2022, to support the Action Plan's implementation.
Q2: Adopted and continues to encourage the use of the more inclusive 2SLGBTQI+ acronym, which recognizes Two-Spirit communities as the first 2SLGBTQI+ communities.
Q3: Launched the new Community and Government of Canada Partnership Committee, which will include representation from Indigenous 2SLGBTQI+ communities.
Q3: Continued to deliver grants and contributions funding to 2SLGBTQI+ organizations, including Indigenous 2SLGBTQI+ community organizations.
Q4: Hired a Two-Spirit Senior Advisor within the 2SLGBTQI+ Secretariat at WAGE, a position created through the 2SLGBTQI+ Action Plan.
Q4: Continued working towards establishing a federal interdepartmental governance structure to advance on Indigenous 2SLGBTQI+ issues across federal departments and agencies.
Q4: Launched a Call for Proposals for the 2SLGBTQI+ Community Capacity Fund on March 12, 2023, which will prioritize community organizations serving Indigenous 2SLGBTQI+ people.

Coming up in 2023-24

Q1: Establish a senior-level federal interdepartmental governance structure to advance on Indigenous 2SLGBTQI+ issues across federal departments and agencies.
Q2: Develop approach towards implementing the awareness campaign to enhance inclusion and break down stigma against 2SLGBTQI+ communities.
Q2: Launch Call for Proposals for community-based research to strengthen 2SLGBTQI+ data and evidence-based policy making.
Q3/Q4:Launch forthcoming 2SLGBTQI+ Projects Fund Call for Proposals, which will prioritize projects serving Indigenous 2SLGBTQI+ people.
Q3/Q4: Announce successful projects through the 2SLGBTQI+ Community Capacity Fund Call for Proposals.

Planned Engagement for 2022-23

Q1/Q2: Ongoing Ministerial touchpoints with 2SLGBTQI+ communities and stakeholders.
Q3: Engagement with 2SLGBTQI+ communities will continue on a more formal, structured basis through the launch of the new 2SLGBTQI+ Community and Government of Canada Partnership Committee, which will include representation from Indigenous 2SLGBTQI+ communities. The Committee will provide a structured and regular opportunity for communities to inform the implementation of the Action Plan and inform future actions.
Q3: Once appointed to new position created under the 2SLGBTQI+ Action Plan, the Two-Spirit Senior Advisor will lead on planning and advising related to engagement with Indigenous 2SLGBTQI+ communities
Q4: Continue engagement with 2SLGBTQI+ communities through 2SLGBTQI+ Community and Government of Canada Partnership Committee, including Indigenous 2SLGBTQI+ communities (please see right column).

Update on 2022-23 Engagement

The 2SLGBTQI+ Secretariat met with Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada and the National Council for MMIWG and 2SLGBTQQIA people to discuss best practices for establishing the Action Plan's interdepartmental governance structure to advance Indigenous 2SLGBTQI+ issues across federal departments and agencies.

Calls for Justice/Calls for Miskotahâ

The Federal 2SLGBTQI+ Action Plan is linked to Calls for Justice 1.5 and 1.6 through work to:

Enhance inclusion and break down stigma and discrimination against 2SLGBTQI+ communities, including Indigenous 2SLGBTQI+ communities, through an awareness campaign. This awareness campaign seeks to raise awareness and improve understanding of 2SLGBTQI+ communities and issues across Canada, including the specific challenges faced by Indigenous 2SLGBTQI+ communities, including violence. (Calls for Justice 1.5.)
Support new community-led research and conduct new data collection and research to inform future 2SLGBTQI+ initiatives. The Action Plan's Data Strategy will seek to improve data collection, analysis, research and knowledge on 2SLGBTQI+ communities, including Indigenous 2SLGBTQI+ communities, in Canada. This strategy will provide data to inform future policy and decision-making processes, which could include our efforts to prevent, investigate, punish and compensate for violence against Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQQIA people (Calls for Justice 1.5.; Calls for Miskotahâ 5). As this strategy is developed, the Action Plan will also consider Indigenous data sovereignty and OCAP principles, and work with communities to share information and ownership of the data. (Calls for Justice 1.6.)
Establishing a senior-level federal interdepartmental governance structure to advance on Indigenous 2SLGBTQI+ issues across federal departments and agencies. During fiscal year 2022-23, the 2SLGBTQI+ Secretariat met with CIRNAC and the National Council for MMIWG and 2SLGBTQQIA people for establishing this interdepartmental table. This work aligns with Call for Justice 1.6., in seeking to break down jurisdictional barriers and ensure greater collaboration and relationship-building with Indigenous 2SLGBTQI+ communities and organizations.
Hiring a dedicated Two-Spirit Senior Advisor position at the 2SLGBTQI+ Secretariat, who will provide advice on unique issues facing Indigenous 2SLGBTQI+ communities and work with OGD partners and Indigenous 2SLGBTQI+ communities and organizations (Calls for Justice 1.6.).

Initiative: First Nations Elementary and Secondary Education – supporting the conclusion of a regional education agreement for 22 communities in Quebec

Lead department(s): Indigenous Services Canada
Funding:$310.6M/5 years
Description: Funding provided for the conclusion of a Regional Education Agreement which includes 22 communities in Quebec. Regional education agreements respond to the education goals and priorities set by First Nations
Calls for Justice: 4.4
Calls for Miskotahâ: N/A

Planned Milestones 2022-23

Planned for 2022-23

Implement the first year of the First Nations Education Council's Regional Education Agreement, and support the work on the development of a measurable results framework by FNEC.

Update on 2022-23

The Treasury Board submission to access this funding was approved in November 2022 and ISC will continue to work with the FNEC on the implementation of this funding, including the development of a measurable results framework.

Coming up in 2023-24

Ongoing implementation.

Planned Engagement for 2022-23

The First Nation's Education Council's regional education agreement was signed on July 14, 2022 and ISC continues to work closely with the Council and their 22 member communities in Quebec on the implementation of the first year of the agreement and its related First Nations-designed funding formula. It is based on more than 10 years of work by the FNEC and its member communities to design and develop an education funding model that is responsive to the specific needs and priorities of the communities' students. As committed to in the agreement, ongoing discussions between the Parties will continue through an Executive Committee.

Update on 2022-23 Engagement

ISC will continue to work with the FNEC on the implementation of this funding and with all First Nations that wish to pursue a regional education agreement as an avenue for advancing self-determination over their education systems.

Calls for Justice/Calls for Miskotahâ

This initiative supports Call for Justice 4.4 related to access to resources, which includes education, for Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA people within Indigenous communities, specifically within First Nations communities.

Initiative: Universal Broadband Fund (UBF)

Lead department: Innovation Science Economic Development
Funding: $3.225 billion
Description: The Universal Broadband Fund (UBF) is a key initiative under the Connectivity Strategy. Investments under the UBF support meeting Canada's target of connecting 98% of Canadians by 2026 and all Canadians by 2030. The UBF has dedicated $3.225 billion, up from the original $1 billion, towards connecting Canadians living in rural and remote areas to high-speed Internet, and improving mobile Internet for Indigenous peoples. The funding includes:
up to $50 million for mobile Internet projects that primarily benefit Indigenous peoples, including projects along highways and roads where mobile connectivity is lacking;
up to $750 million for large, high-impact projects; a Rapid Response Stream (RRS) for shovel-ready projects that can be completed quickly
Calls for Justice: 5.5 and 16.5
Calls for Miskotahâ: N/A

Planned Milestones 2022-23

Planned for 2022-23

The UBF is making significant progress to address broadband and mobile gaps which disproportionately impact rural, remote and Indigenous communities. To date, funding decisions worth approximately $2.2B will improve broadband connectivity for nearly 950,000 underserved households, including many that are Indigenous.

The UBF is also improving mobile wireless to the benefit of Indigenous Peoples. For example, the Government of Canada and BC are co-funding a $4.5 million contribution to provide mobile connectivity along Highway 16, ("Highway of Tears"), fulfilling a critical recommendation to make the highway safer. Additionally, on August 26, 2022, the Government of Canada also announced $404,936 in funding to improve mobile connectivity for the Atikamekw First Nation of Wemotaci.

Update on 2022-23

The Government of Canada is making significant progress to address broadband and mobile gaps, which disproportionately impact rural, remote and Indigenous communities. Since 2015, the government has announced projects that will improve connectivity for approximately 100,000 Indigenous households. The government is on track to connect 98% of Canadians to high-speed Internet by 2026, and all Canadians by 2030, including Indigenous peoples.

Under the Universal Broadband Fund (UBF), over $2.2 billion in funding has been announced, which will provide high-speed Internet access for over 950,000 underserved households, including more than 30,000 that are Indigenous. Under the UBF's mobile stream which primarily benefits Indigenous peoples, $2.6 million in funding has been announced to date to bring mobile Internet to 267 currently underserved kilometers of road. This includes filling all gaps in mobile connectivity along British Columbia's Highway 16, also known as the "Highway of Tears", fulfilling a key recommendation of the Highway of Tears Symposium Report, and echoed in the National inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls report.

Coming up in 2023-24

In 2023-24, the government will continue to announce projects selected under the UBF, including the mobile stream which primarily benefits Indigenous peoples.

Planned Engagement for 2022-23

Update on 2022-23 Engagement

The government engaged with many Indigenous applicants to government-funded broadband programs, who are making important advances on their projects. During 2022-2023, under the UBF-RRS, five Indigenous projects totaling over $5 million were completed. The government also continued to consult with many Indigenous communities to be served by government-funded broadband projects.

Calls for Justice/Calls for Miskotahâ

The Universal Broadband Fund is one of the key programs helping to achieve Canada's Connectivity Strategy Targets of providing high-speed Internet access to 98% of Canadian households by 2026, and 100% by 2030.

The Universal Broadband Fund supports Calls for Justice 5.5 and 16.5 related to ensuring all Indigenous communities have access to reliable high-speed Internet to (5.5) and all Inuit communities have access to reliable high-speed Internet and mobile service to be able to equitably access essential public services and engage in economic, cultural and political life (16.5).

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Justice

Improving Access to Justice

Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people continue to face significant barriers in accessing justice, protection, or support through the Canadian criminal justice system. As the National Inquiry's Final Report noted, institutional racism and systemic discrimination in the justice system is a root cause of the overrepresentation of Indigenous people, as accused, offenders, and victims in the Canadian justice system.

Victim services and supports are an important form of assistance for families and survivors of crime in seeking justice for themselves or their loved ones. Policies, programs and initiatives are being reviewed to ensure that relationships between Indigenous Peoples and police services are improved and sustainable funding available, including through self-determined Indigenous police services.

In 2022-23, the federal government continued to respond to these needs. Highlights of this work include:

The Government of Canada announced its intention to provide sustainable funding through Justice Canada to ensure continued FILU operations across Canada. FILUS will have a permanent funding base to ensure that families and survivors continue to have access to culturally grounded and trauma-informed teams to help them navigate the criminal justice system, are able to access all the available information they are seeking about their loved ones from police, courts, medical examiners and other agencies, and have connections to all available community and governments supports that they need in their justice and healing journey. Thousands of families of MMIWG have accessed FILU services since 2016 and with the intention to provide ongoing funding announced in 2022-23, families will have access to that support for as long as needed. This will also permit FILUs to expand and adjust their work to build new partnerships, strengthen existing relationships with justice agencies, and address the gaps and pressures in service delivery that have been identified since 2016 to better meet the needs of families in their jurisdictions.
Correctional Services Canada has appointed a Deputy Commissioner for Indigenous Corrections. This position is intended to support relationships with Indigenous Peoples, ensure proper attention is given to Indigenous issues such as the overrepresentation of Indigenous Peoples in corrections, and oversee the implementation of the Calls for Justice addressed to Correctional Services Canada.
The Indigenous Justice Program, supported by the Department of Justice working in cooperation and coordination with Provinces, Territories and Indigenous organizations, focuses on community-based justice solutions and seeks to build capacity within community justice programs to support victims through a trauma-informed victims training component, among many other programs. This initiative will train community justice workers to support victims of violence through a trauma-informed lens to support Indigenous-led community justice programs to deliver safe and responsive services and programming in Indigenous communities.
Through the Indigenous Justice Program, the Department of Justice has funded several Indigenous-led programs, including:
- Aboriginal Legal Services Inc. to support the existing Giiwedin Anang Council, an Indigenous Family Dispute Resolution program. The Council supports Indigenous families involved in civil and family law matters, from access and custody disputes to apprehensions and placement by child welfare agencies, through mediation.
- Mohawks of Akwesasne to support a two-day conference for Gladue writers, Indigenous Justice Programs, and justice stakeholders from Quebec and Ontario. The conference explored best practices, lessons learned, cultural sensitivity and safety for Indigenous Peoples in the justice system, and future planning eleven years after the R. v. Ipeelee decision.
- Carcross/Tagish First Nation to support their project, Exploring Community Justice Alternatives to the Criminal Justice System. The project aims to contribute to systemic change in the Criminal Justice System by exploring options such as returning to the use of sentencing circles, returning to the use of peacemaking circles to address conflict in the community, establishing a community wellness court in Carcross, making circuit court more culturally relevant and, providing more culturally relevant reintegration support to citizens returning to the community after being incarcerated.
The Department of Justice invested in the department's capacity to engage with Indigenous groups to negotiate Administration of Justice Agreements, which in turn help to strengthen Indigenous community-based justice systems, revitalize Indigenous legal traditions, and contribute to self-determination over administration of justice at the community level.
Working collaboratively with Indigenous and provincial and territorial partners, the Department of Justice has started the development of an Indigenous Justice Strategy (IJS). To support this process, the Department provided 11 million dollars in funding to 38 Indigenous partner organizations and communities to host Indigenous-led engagement and dialogue, and to identify legislative, program, and policy initiatives required to address systemic discrimination and overrepresentation of Indigenous Peoples in the justice system. Justice Canada is also supporting a complementary Justice Canada-led engagement process, to ensure that First Nations, Inuit, and Métis people from across the country are actively involved in informing the future IJS. This includes direct engagement with 2SLGBTQIA+ people, women, youth, Elders, and Indigenous people living in urban settings.
The Law Commission of Canada was re-established, and appointed their first President and board members to begin term in June of 2023.
The Department of Justice tabled the first annual report on the implementation of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act, and undertook co-development on the action plan.
The Royal Canadian Mounted Police launched the Intercultural Learning Strategy in 2022-2023, with internal and external consultation as its focus.

Full details on Federal Pathway initiatives under the Justice theme can be found below.

Justice Initiatives

Initiative: National Indigenous and Human Rights Ombudsperson

Lead department(s): CIRNAC/JUS
Funding: $1.6 M/ 2 years
Description: Developing advice on a way forward regarding the call to establish a National Indigenous and Human Rights Ombudsperson
Calls for Justice: 1.7
Calls for Miskotahâ: n/a

Planned Milestones 2022-23

Planned for 2022-23

CIRNAC is planning initial engagements in support of Call for Justice 1.7, which calls for the establishment of an Indigenous and Human Rights Ombudsperson.

Update on 2022-23

On January 10, 2023, Minister Marc Miller announced the appointment of Jennifer Moore-Rattray as Ministerial Special Representative to provide advice and recommendations, through engagement with survivors, families, partners and organizations, in support of Call for Justice 1.7 to create an Indigenous and Human Rights Ombudsperson.

Coming up in 2023-24

Budget 2023 proposed $1.6M over 2 years, starting in 2023-24, for the Ministerial Special Representative to provide advice and recommendations on the creation of an Indigenous and Human Rights ombudsperson. The Ministerial Special Representative is expected to report back to Minister Miller in the fall of 2023. Based on the advice, CIRNAC will develop next steps with the Ministerial Special Representative.

Planned Engagement for 2022-23

Update on 2022-23 Engagement

Subsequent to her appointment as Ministerial Special Representative in January 2023, Ms. Rattray has started engagement with Indigenous partners, provinces and territories and federal government departments. She will continue this engagement in Q1 of 2023-24.

Calls for Justice/Calls for Miskotahâ

CFJ 1.7 We call upon the federal, provincial, and territorial governments, in partnership with Indigenous Peoples, to establish a National Indigenous and Human Rights Ombudsperson, with authority in all jurisdictions, and to establish a National Indigenous and Human Rights Tribunal. The ombudsperson and tribunal must be independent of governments and have the authority to receive complaints from Indigenous individuals as well as Indigenous communities in relation to Indigenous and human rights violations, and to conduct thorough and independent evaluations of government services for First Nations, Inuit, and Métis people and communities to determine compliance with human and Indigenous rights laws. The ombudsperson and the tribunal must be given sufficient resources to fulfill their mandates and must be permanent.

Initiative: Revival of the Law Commission of Canada

Lead department(s): Justice Canada
Funding: $18M/5 years and $4M ongoing
Description: The Commission will be responsive to issues such as systemic racism in the justice system, legal issues around climate change, establishing a new relationship with Indigenous Peoples, and rapid technological shifts in the world.
Calls for Justice: 5.2, 5.3, 5.14, 5.17, 5.18
Calls for Miskotahâ: N/A

Planned Milestones 2022-23

Planned for 2022-23

The Department of Justice will support the re-establishment of the Law Commission of Canada, including providing interim staff and seeking out permanent funding to develop a mandate and set up the commission.

Update on 2022-23

An interim Executive Director has been appointed, the Treasury Board submission process was completed in early 2022, and the Commission's funding was voted through Supplementary Estimates A.

Accommodation has been secured for a temporary office, and the recruitment of the Commission's Secretariat staff is underway, as is the putting in place of necessary administrative supports.

Coming up in 2023-24

It is expected that the Law Commission will be up and running in fiscal 2023-24.

The appointment of the President and other commissioners has been announced for June 6, 2023

Planned Engagement for 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.

Update on 2022-23 Engagement

One of the priorities in 2023-24 will be the establishment of an Advisory Council.

The Commission will also work to develop a research agenda.

Calls for Justice/Calls for Miskotahâ

The manner in which the Commission will address the identified MMIWG 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).

Initiative: Support the implementation of Gladue Principles

Lead department(s): Justice Canada
Funding: $49.3M/5 years and $9.7M ongoing
Description: Supporting the implementation of Gladue Principles in the mainstream justice system and Indigenous-led responses in order to help reduce the overrepresentation of Indigenous Peoples in the criminal justice and correctional systems.
Calls for Justice: 5.11, 5.15, 5.16
Calls for Miskotahâ: 41, 42, 43

Planned Milestones 2022-23

Planned for 2022-23

The Indigenous Justice Program and the Indigenous Courtwork Program will continue working with provinces and territories, as well as Indigenous community partners to roll out Gladue Reports and Aftercare funding (not all provinces and territories have Gladue Report writing in place; funding ramps up over 5 years to allow for the building of frameworks and models).

Conversations with other jurisdictions for funding in future years are ongoing.

Update on 2022-23

The ICW provided over $1.5M through 16 contribution agreements to support Indigenous organizations with the development of Gladue reports, Indigenous Family Courtwork services, strengthening relationships with the judiciary, and training Indigenous courtworkers to provide services in a post-COVID hybrid court setting.

Coming up in 2023-24

The ICW will hold a CFP in 2023-2024 to support priorities identified by the Tripartite Working Group on the ICW.

Planned Engagement for 2022-23

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 Indigenous Justice Program has an ongoing dialogue with Indigenous community partners / service delivery agencies, and will continue to work closely with them throughout the roll-out of this initiative, including throughout 2022-23.

Update on 2022-23 Engagement

Dialogue will continue with funded organizations and groups on a regular basis.

Calls for Justice/Calls for Miskotahâ

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 Call 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).

Initiative: Justice capacity related to Administration of Justice Agreements (AoJ)

Lead department(s): Justice Canada
Funding: $8.1M/5 years
Description: Investing in the Departments capacity to engage with Indigenous groups to negotiate Administration of Justice Agreements. These agreements help to strengthen Indigenous community-based justice systems, Indigenous legal traditions, and self-determination over administration of justice at the community level.
Calls for Justice: 1.4, 1.6, 5.1, 5.4, 5.9, 5.10, 5.11, 5.16, 16.41, 17.27
Calls for Miskotahâ: N/A

Planned Milestones 2022-23

Planned for 2022-23

The Department of Justice has 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.

Update on 2022-23: Funding received in 2021-22 supported an increase in capacity of officials to participate at tables at which potential administration of justice agreements are discussed. This increase has allowed Justice Canada officials to participate at the Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs' (CIRNA) Recognition of Indigenous Rights and Self-Determination discussion tables (RIRSD) with Indigenous partners. Since last reported, the number of negotiation tables has increased from 12 to 16, including a Tripartite Table and a Table focused on enforcement issues.

Coming up in 2023-24

Ongoing partnerships with negotiating communities.

Planned Engagement for 2022-23

National Partners

CIRNAC and other relevant departments.

Regional and Community-Based Partners

Ongoing partnerships with negotiating communities.

Update on 2022-23 Engagement

Ongoing partnerships with negotiating communities.

Calls for Justice/Calls for Miskotahâ

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.

Initiative: Enhanced funding to support effective implementation of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (UNDA), including capacity funding for Indigenous partners to continue to collaborate on the implementation of the Act, including the development, implementation and monitoring of an action plan

Lead department(s): Justice Canada
Funding: CIRNAC/JUS $31.5M/2 years (Budget 2021), Justice/NRCan $65.8 million over five years, starting in 2022-23, and $11 million ongoing (Budget 2022)
Description: Supporting the development, implementation and monitoring of an action plan to achieve the objectives of the UN Declaration, in consultation and cooperation with Indigenous peoples. This process will support Indigenous self-determination and enhance nation-to-nation, Inuit-Crown and government-to-government relationships.
Calls for Justice: (1.2v, 1.7, 2.1, 3.1, and 16.43), have been identified as implicating UNDA specifically.
Calls for Miskotahâ: 1, 16, 17

Planned Milestones 2022-23

Planned for 2022-23

Following Royal Assent of the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act, Justice Canada is leading on the development of a distinctions-based engagement process, the development of the action plan and the annual reporting process, all aspects of which must be done in consultation and cooperation with Indigenous peoples.
Justice Canada leads on implementing the three legal obligations underset out in the Act, in consultation and cooperation with Indigenous peoples: a) the development of an action plan to achieve the objectives of the UN Declaration; b) the identification of measures to ensure the consistency of federal laws with the UN Declaration; and, c) development of annual reports on progress.
To support this work the UN Declaration Act Implementation Secretariat was created within Justice Canada's IRRP.
Budget 2022 provided $64 million over five years, starting in 2022-23, and $11 million ongoing, to Justice Canada to stabilize and accelerate work to meet the legislated requirements of the UN Declaration Act, including the co-development of an action plan with Indigenous partners, as well as to support Indigenous capacity to participate in the ongoing monitoring, review and update of measures included in the action plan and to ensure that the laws of Canada are consistent with the Declaration. Budget 2022 also provided $1.8 million over two years to NRCan to support federal UN Declaration Act implementation efforts. The funding will be used to establish a dedicated team to engage meaningfully with federal departments, regulatory bodies, provincial governments, industry stakeholders and Indigenous partners, in support of developing the first UN Declaration Action Plan by June 21, 2023.
NRCan, in collaboration with Justice Canada and Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada, hosted five natural resources industry roundtable sessions (mining, oil and gas, low carbon energy, forestry and Indigenous partners) in May 2022 to provide updates on the Government of Canada's plans to implement the UNDA. Following the release of the draft Action Plan, NRCan intends to launch a second series of Roundtable sessions with Industry stakeholders – offering participants an opportunity to comment on the Draft prior to the finalization of the Action Plan with Indigenous partners by June 2023.

Q1: Phase I Engagement: Consultation and cooperation with Indigenous partners to identify Action Plan priorities, including possible measures to ensure consistency of federal laws with the Declaration and annual reporting on progress
Q1: Funding provided through Call for Proposals to support Indigenous participation in the engagement process, including support for Indigenous-led consultations on action plan measures, including measures to ensure the consistency of federal laws with the Declaration, and annual reporting on progress. The CFP was held between December 2021 to April 2022 to support Indigenous-led consultations. $26.3M was allocated to 150 successful applicants. First Annual Progress Report tabled in Parliament.
Q2: Continued Phase I consultation and cooperation with Indigenous partners
Q3: Continued Phase I consultation and cooperation with Indigenous partners.
Q4: Release of "What We Learned Report" providing a summary of the engagement with Indigenous partners to support the implementation of the UN Declaration Act.
Q4: Release of the Draft Action Plan.
Q4: Phase II Engagement: Validation of the measures in the Draft Action Plan with Indigenous partners.
Q4: Final Action Plan to be completed in June 2023, as will the second annual report on progress (2023/24 Q1).

Update on 2022-23

Consultation and cooperation with Indigenous peoples is ongoing on the development of the Action Plan, as per section 6 of the Act.
An engagement series consisting of five roundtable sessions was held by NRCan in May 2022 with industry stakeholders from mining, oil and gas, low carbon energy and forestry sectors including Indigenous Partners. This engagement session provided 330 individuals with updates on the implementation of the Act.
A second engagement series consisting of five roundtable sessions was held by NRCan in March 2023 with industry stakeholders from mining, oil and gas, low carbon energy and forestry sectors including Indigenous Partners. This engagement session provided over 330 individuals with an opportunity to provide feedback on action plan measures contained in the Draft Action Plan.
Following a call for proposals process, launched in December 2021, over $26M was allocated to 150 Indigenous governing bodies, representative organizations and groups across the country to support their participation in the consultation and cooperation process and to support Indigenous-led engagement aimed at identifying priorities for inclusion in a draft Action Plan. Measures proposed by Indigenous partners were circulated to lead federal departments to help facilitate consultation and cooperation with Indigenous partners towards their possible inclusion in the draft Action Plan.
To date, over 2000 proposed action plan measures have been submitted by more than 100 Indigenous partners. Key priorities that have begun to emerge from these proposed measures relate to:
- Participation in Decision-making; including free, prior, and informed consent;
- The establishment of Indigenous-led oversight and accountability mechanisms
- Health
- Human Rights Training and Education
- Culture, Heritage and Art Rights
- Environment
- Criminal Justice
- Education
A draft action plan and a What We Learned to Date report were released in March 2023. This launched a second phase of consultation and cooperation. The goal of this phase will be to work with Indigenous partners to validate the measures in the draft Action Plan, and identify any gaps and address them where possible.
Ongoing consultation and cooperation will be broad, inclusive and distinctions-based to ensure comprehensive, equitable input by Indigenous partners.

Coming up in 2023-24

Action Plan to be completed by June 21, 2023, Second Annual Report on progress to be completed by June 2023.
Budget 2022 announced $64 million over five years, starting in 2022-23, and $11 million ongoing, to Justice Canada to stabilize and accelerate work to implement the UN Declaration Act.

Planned Engagement for 2022-23

National and Regional/Community-Based Partners

Broad, inclusive and distinctions-based engagement process that is focused on First Nations, Inuit and Métis rights holders, including modern treaty signatories and self-governing nations and historic treaty partners, as well as with national and regional Indigenous representative organizations. The engagement process will also include the participation of diversity groups such as Indigenous women, Elders, youth, persons with disabilities, 2SLGBTQQIA+ people, urban Indigenous people and other Indigenous organizations and groups. In addition, discussions with industry associations, led by Natural Resources Canada, will also occur as part of the process, as will discussions with provincial and territorial partners, led by Justice Canada.

Update on 2022-23 Engagement

Since December 2021, over 200 bilateral meetings were held with Indigenous partners, as well as 20 regionally-based virtual multilateral information sessions.
Bilateral meetings have been held on a regular basis with National Indigenous Women Organizations (i.e., NWAC, LFMO-WMN, Pauktuutit) as well as with regional Indigenous women's organizations, as well as with organizations representing Elders, youth, persons with disabilities, 2SLGBTQI+ persons and other diversity groups.
In total, 17 diversity groups were funded through the Call for Proposals, and other organizations have provided input for the draft Action Plan.
An online submission tool was available until December 2022.
Dialogue with provinces and territories and industry stakeholders continues.
Five industry-specific information sessions (with mining, oil and gas, low carbon energy, forestry and Indigenous partners) held by NRCan in May 2022 with over 330 representatives across the natural resource industry. A "What We Heard" report summarizing the findings of the roundtables was released in Fall 2022.
Five industry-specific roundtable sessions (with mining, oil and gas, low carbon energy, forestry and Indigenous partners) were also held by NRCan in March 2023, again with over 330 participants. A "What We Heard" report summarizing the findings of these roundtables to be released in early 2023-24.

Calls for Justice/Calls for Miskotahâ

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.

Initiative: Indigenous-led community-based programs–Program Integrity inclusive of Trauma Informed Victims Training and Civil and Family Mediation

Lead department(s): Justice Canada
Funding: $13.6M/3 years (Program Integrity) and $6.8M/ 3 years (Civil and Family Mediation)
Description: Expanding support for the Indigenous Justice Program (IJP) will help maintain the availability of Indigenous-led community justice programs to provide safe and responsive Indigenous and restorative justice programming in their communities including ensuring that community justice workers are trained to support victims of violence through a trauma informed lens. The IJP supports Indigenous community-based justice programs that offer alternatives to mainstream justice processes in appropriate circumstances. These efforts assist Indigenous people in assuming greater responsibility of their administration of justice in their communities, reflect and include Indigenous values within the justice system, and contribute to a decreased rate of victimization, crime and incarceration among Indigenous people.
Calls for Justice: 5.6
Calls for Miskotahâ: 20, 41

Planned Milestones 2022-23

Planned for 2022-23

Q1: A call for proposals (CFP) open to Indigenous community-based justice programs supported by the Indigenous Justice Program was launched in Q1.
Q1: The CFP implemented Indigenous Justice Program (IJP) Capacity-Building Fund Program Integrity funding and trauma-informed victims training funding received in Budget 2021.
Q1: Fifty-four projects were approved under this CFP.
Q2: The approach for rolling out additional Victims Training funding in 23-24 was confirmed with provincial and territorial partners at an FPT meeting,
Q3: All CFP project agreements will be finalized by end of Q3.
Q4:IJP intends to put together an advisory group of Indigenous community partners and begin engaging with funded programs on the approach for rolling out virtual training and developing additional resources in 23-24.

Update on 2022-23

An advisory group was established to help guide the approach for additional Victims Training to existing IJP programs.

Coming up in 2023-24

The advisory group scheduled to Q4 was deferred until 2023-24.

Planned Engagement for 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. IJP is also planning to engage Indigenous partners in an advisory committee and have regional level discussions with funded programs.

Update on 2022-23 Engagement

Funded communities were engaged in the development of the 2022-23 Capacity-building Fund call for proposals.

Calls for Justice/Calls for Miskotahâ

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

Initiative: Strengthen Indigenous-led community-based programs–Indigenous Family Courtwork Services (ICW)

Lead department(s): Justice Canada
Funding: $6.7M/3 years (2021/22 – 2023/24)
Description: Expanding the Indigenous Courtworker (ICW) program to assist Indigenous persons who are navigating the family, child protection, and/or criminal justice systems, often simultaneously. A Courtworker will assist in navigating these proceedings including connecting clients to culturally safe assistance and resources. Over time, this expansion will lead to a reduction in the number of Indigenous children being removed permanently from their families, a key recommendation from the MMIWG Final Report. ICW also contributes to the courts understanding of Indigenous cultures, languages and traditions, reducing the instances of racism and the effects of systemic racism
Calls for Justice: 1.8, 5.11
Calls for Miskotahâ: 20, 41

Planned Milestones 2022-23

Planned for 2022-23

Q4 (2021/22): Justice Canada allocated $1.2M to enhance Indigenous Family Courtwork services in those regions where services currently exist (Alberta, Saskatchewan, Quebec, Ontario, Northwest Territories).
Q1 (2022/23): Justice Canada provided $235,000 over 2 years to the Native Courtworker and Counselling Services of British Columbia to develop a framework for the delivery of Family Courtwork Services in British Columbia.
Q2 (2022/23): Justice Canada provided $77,996 to the Native Counselling Services of Alberta to update their Family Courtworker Best Practices.
Q2 (2022/23): Justice Canada provided $66,000 to the Yukon Government to conduct a Family Courtworker framework.
Q2 (2022/23): Justice Canada provided $98,670 to the Mi'kmaw Legal Support Network to develop an Indigenous Family Courtwork Model in Nova Scotia.
Q2 (2022/23): Justice Canada provided $203,102 to Services Parajudiciaires Autochtones Du Québec, to improve Family and Criminal Court Services.
Q3-Q4 (2022/23): Justice Canada will continue to work with remaining regions to develop regional Indigenous Family Courtwork service delivery models for implementation in the event ongoing funding is obtained and the provinces are willing to support services on a 50/50 cost-shared basis.

Update on 2022-23

ICW worked closely with governments and organizations to support Family Courtwork service delivery or framework development. This work will continue into 2023-2024.

Coming up in 2023-24

This is the last year for earmarked funding for Indigenous Family Courtwork. ICW will hold an RFP for 2023-2024 and continue to support the development of Family Courtwork Services.

Planned Engagement for 2022-23

Provincial, Territorial and Community-Based Partners

The Indigenous Courtwork Program will engage with Provinces, Territories and service delivery agencies to determine implementation of Family Courtworker services. This will be done through the Federal Provincial Territorial Working Group on the ICW and the Tripartite Working Group on the ICW.

Update on 2022-23 Engagement

The Indigenous Courtwork Program worked with provinces, territories and service delivery agencies to support framework development for Family Courtworker services. Specifically, the program worked with the Yukon government, the Native Courtworker and Counselling Association of British Columbia, Native Counselling Services of Alberta, the Prince Albert Métis Indian Friendship Centre (SK), and les Services parajudiciaires autochtones du Québec. This work will continue through the Federal Provincial Territorial Working Group on the ICW and the Tripartite Working Group on the ICW.

Calls for Justice/Calls for Miskotahâ

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.

Initiative: Engaging with Indigenous partners on an Indigenous Justice Strategy

Lead department(s): Justice Canada
Funding: $24.2M/3 years
Description: Through a call for proposals, Justice Canada will provide $11M in funding to Indigenous partners and organizations to engage with their members and citizens on what an Indigenous Justice Strategy (IJS) in Canada could and should include. This funding aims to support engagement to inform the development of the IJS, and identify legislative, program, and policy initiatives needed to address systemic discrimination and overrepresentation of Indigenous peoples in the justice system.
Calls for Justice: 5.1, 5.3, 5.10, 5.11, 5.12, 5.21, 9.1, 9.2
Calls for Miskotahâ: 8, 16, 41

Planned Milestones 2022-23

Planned for 2022-23

In December 2021, Justice launched a Call for Proposals (CFP) to support Indigenous-led engagement on the IJS. In response to the CFP, Justice received 83 applications totaling $30 million in funding. With $11 million allocated for the Indigenous-led IJS engagement, Justice was able to provide grant funding to 38 Indigenous partners. Signed grant letters were sent out to successful applicants in Q1 of 2022.

In Q2 of 2022, successful CFP applicants provided a revised work plan and began the groundwork for Indigenous-led engagement activities. Justice signed a contract with KES, an Indigenous consulting group to begin the work on the Justice-led engagement process. KES began by conducting pre-briefing conversations with partners to inform and develop of an Engagement Plan.

In Q3 of 2022, the Jus-led engagement officially launched. This included the creation of an IJS website to provide information and solicit ongoing recommendations and comments. Wave 1 IJS engagement also included 26 virtual, distinctions- and geographically-based engagement sessions with Inuit, Métis, and First Nations participants to discuss experiences of the justice system and explore priorities related to advancing Indigenous justice systems, and addressing challenges within the Canadian justice system. Dedicated sessions were also held with 2SLGBTQIA+ people, women, youth, Elders, and Indigenous people living in urban settings. These sessions concluded in March, 2023.

In Q4 of 2023, CFP partners submitted their first interim reports and received 75% of 2023-24 grant funding. JUS and KES developed a draft What We Heard Report from the Wave 1 engagement, and used this information to develop an approach for Wave 2 conversations. An initial Wave 2 engagement session with Youth, Elders, FPT officials, and the federal Minister of Justice took place in April 2023.

Coming up in 2023-24

Justice Canada will continue Wave 2 dialogue and discussions with Indigenous organizations, groups, and communities as well as Provincial and Territorial partners, across the country. Indigenous communities and organizations funded through the CFP will provide a final report on Indigenous-led engagements and discussions to inform the IJS.

The Indigenous Justice Strategy will be finalized and released in spring of 2024.

Planned Engagement for 2022-23

National and Regional/Community-Based Partners

Budget 2021 provided $11M over 3 years to support Indigenous-led community engagement to ensure the development of an IJS was done in consultation and collaboration with Indigenous people across Canada. Following a Call for Proposals, 38 Indigenous partners received grant funding to engage with their members and constituents on what an IJS could and should include.

Partners and funding recipients for Indigenous-led engagements were determined based on priorities identified, and applications approved through the call for proposals. Successful applicants have received 2021-22, 2022-23, and 75% of funding for 2023-24 and have begun their work on engagement activities. CFP applicants will receive the remaining funding for 2023-24 following their submission of interim report #2.

Simultaneously, Justice Canada is supporting complementary engagement with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis partners across the country, as well as with provincial, territorial, and federal governments. Justice contracted KES, an Indigenous consultant group, to support the work of both the Indigenous and Justice led engagements.

KES conducted 50 pre-briefing dialogues with a range of partners, including Indigenous communities and organizations, provinces and territories, other government departments, and practitioners, to help inform the parameters for the Justice Canada-led engagement sessions.

Update on 2022-23 Engagement

The Justice Canada-led engagements launched in September 2022 and will continue to March 2024. Wave 1 of engagement took place from October 2022 to February 2023 and included 26 meetings with participants from every province and territory across Canada. Individuals who attended the dialogues, represented a variety of Indigenous communities, organizations, nations, governments, and interest groups. In addition to these voices, representatives from Provincial and Territorial Governments and Federal Departments including Indigenous Services Canada, Public Safety, and Crown-Indigenous Relations also observed many of the conversations to gain deeper insights into the needs and barriers facing Indigenous people within the justice system. Other attendees included Indigenous legal experts, Indigenous court workers, individuals with lived experience, and scholars who provided their expertise to the conversations.

In addition to formal engagement sessions, an online platform has been created for individuals to participate in ideation exercises, discussion boards, and e-Workbooks.

Interdepartmental working groups have been established at the working level, DG level, and ADM level along with an IJS Task Force. The Task Force brings together subject matter experts within the Department of Justice to define the scope of topics being discussed, identify what organizations or individuals should be included in the conversation, and to ensure work is being linked with other policy initiatives.

Wave 2 of engagement is expected to launch spring 2023 and involve more targeted, regionally based sessions.

Calls for Justice/Calls for Miskotahâ

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.

Initiative: Address sex-based inequalities in the Indian Act through the Implementation of former Bill S-3

Lead Department(s): Indigenous Services Canada
Funding: Total of $35.7M over a period of 5 years (2019-2023)
Description: The implementation of S-3 has been underway since the coming into force of the legislation in 2017, introduced to address the remaining sex-based inequities in Indian registration, and will continue to be funded through 2022-23. The Department continues to recognize newly eligible individuals and continues outreach to newly eligible individuals, as well as its engagement with First Nations and monitoring of impacts.
Calls for Justice: 1.2v
Calls for Miskotahâ: N/A

Planned Milestones 2022-23

Planned for 2022-23

Ongoing work on residual impacts of previous sex-based inequities, through increasing efficiencies in registration processing to ensure that all those newly-entitled as a result of Bill-3 are able to be registered in a timely manner.

Update on 2022-23

As of September 2022, the Department is processing requests within its six month service standard.
As of December 31, 2022, the department has received 56,000 applications which have resulted in over 38,000 individuals being newly registered
On December 14, Patty Hajdu, Minister of Indigenous Services announced the introduction of Bill C-38 to address four issues in the Indian Act: enfranchisement, individual deregistration, natal band membership and removal of outdated and offensive language related to dependent persons in the Indian Act. These amendments being proposed are part of a broader, whole-of-government effort to advance Indigenous rights, self-determination and self-government.
In Fall 2022, the Standing Senate Committee on Indigenous Peoples, (formerly the Senate Committee on Aboriginal Peoples) undertook a review of the implementation of this Act. The Committee then tabled their final report entitled, "Make it Stop, Ending the remaining discrimination in Indian Registration" in the Senate on September 27, 2022. The Government of Canada tabled its official response on January 24, 2023. The Government of Canada will continue to implement the key aspects of the response.
Response: Make it Stop! Ending the remaining discrimination in Indian registration - Bilingual.docx (sencanada.ca)

Coming up in 2023-24

The Department will continue to process applications within its six month service standard in 2023-2024, allowing individuals to access programs and services associated with registration.

Planned Engagement for 2022-23

National and Regional/Community-Based Partners

Engagement to date has been multi-pronged, and Indigenous Services Canada has collaborated with partners named below. The Department has a mandate for continued engagement, and is working to develop creative new strategies to reach populations who are impacted by S-3 amendments, whose historical disconnection from their ancestry as a result of sex-based inequities has meant that they are harder to reach.

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.

Update on 2022-23 Engagement

Engagement sessions on the implementation of S-3 pivoted its focus to introducing subsequent changes to the legislation.
Engagement sessions in preparation for Bill C-38 were held between August and December 2022, provided a forum to discuss, reflect and gather crucial feedback on the proposed solutions for each amendment and integral in the co-development of the proposed Bill.
The proposed changes have been communicated through the departmental webpage, social media posts, web content, and distribution of information through a third party partner, Indigenous Link.
In addition to the above, targeted key engagements with organizations have occurred with:
- Assembly of First Nations
- Native Women's Association of Canada
- Congress of Aboriginal People
- Feminist Alliance for International Action
- Michel Nation representatives
- Juristes Power Law (litigants)
- Various Métis organizations

On October 31st 2022 Minister Hajdu sent a letter to all First Nations Chiefs seeking their participation in the engagement sessions. Following introduction of the legislation, engagement sessions have pivoted to information sessions, which launched in January 2023.

Calls for Justice/Calls for Miskotahâ

Our 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 Call for Miskotahâ as our program serves First Nations individuals.

Initiative: Co-development of First Nations police services legislation and Engagement on Inuit and Métis policing and community safety priorities

Lead Department(s): Public Safety Canada, supported by Indigenous Services Canada, Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Relations Canada
Funding: Public Safety: $36.1M/5 years; ISC: $7.6M/5 years
Description: Co-developing and tabling federal legislation that recognizes First Nations police services as essential services. To advance this mandate commitment, targeted and meaningful engagement activities are being planned with First Nations organizations, rights holders, provinces and territories, relevant policing organizations and other experts. Separate, distinctions-based engagement with Inuit and Métis organizations, rights-holders, provinces and territories will also be undertaken to better understand the unique policing and community safety priorities of Inuit and Métis and how best they can be supported.
Calls for Justice: 5.4
Calls for Miskotahâ: 16

Planned Milestones 2022-23

Planned for 2022-23

Co-development of First Nations police services legislation

Spring 2022 thirteen virtual engagement sessions were held with First Nations, First Nations organizations, provinces and territories, police organizations and subject matter experts. Public Safety officials also attended various bilateral discussions, group meetings and presented at forums where the co-development of First Nations police services legislation was discussed.
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.
Summer 2022 – Publication of What We Heard Report
Fall 2022/Winter 2023 - Public Safety to work with the Assembly of First Nations and partners on principles and elements to inform co-development of legislation.
Spring 2023 – Introduce Bill

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.

Update on 2022-23

Co-development of First Nations police services legislation

What We Heard Report published September 21, 2022
Collaboration with the Assembly of First Nations and partners on principles and elements to inform co-development of legislation
Bilateral engagement, as requested, with First Nations organizations and communities across Canada
Collaboration with Provinces and Territories, modern treaty and self-governing agreement signatories, the First Nations Chiefs of Police Association, and the First Nations Police Governance Council

Engagement on Inuit and Métis policing and community safety priorities

Contribution agreements are in place with Inuit organizations, and Public Safety continues to work with Métis organizations to finalize draft contribution agreements and flow funding.
In order to better respond to the preferences of Inuit and Métis organizations, Public Safety has shifted from virtual engagement sessions to bilateral discussions and formal working groups. This change has been well-received, and discussions on the unique policing and community safety priorities of Inuit and Métis are advancing.

Coming up in 2023-24

Co-development of First Nations police services legislation

Finalization of principles and elements to inform Bill
Engage partners Introduce Bill – date TBD

Engagement on Inuit and Métis policing and community safety priorities

All contribution agreements are in place, and Inuit and Métis organizations, continue engagement of their own membership on policing and community safety priorities.
Continued bilateral discussions and formal working group meetings continue, supporting further analysis of existing challenges and identification of potential areas of improvement.

Planned Engagement for 2022-23

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/ 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, First Nations police governance bodies, and First Nations Chief and Council members.
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.

Update on 2022-23 Engagement

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/ 2SLGBTQQIA+ organizations, etc.), Modern Treaty and Self-Governing First Nations, First Nations, Provinces and Territories, First Nations Chiefs of Police Association, First Nations Police Governance Council, First Nations police services, First Nations police governance bodies, and First Nations Chief and Council members.
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.
No change in national, regional or community-based partners.

Calls for Justice/Calls for Miskotahâ

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.

Initiative: Additional Funding for Infrastructure Program

Lead department(s): Public Safety Canada
Funding: $108.6 million over five years, beginning in 2021-22
Description: The objective of the Funding for First Nations and Inuit Policing Facilities (FFNIPF) is to improve the safety and well-being of the occupants of First Nations and Inuit police facilities through financial assistance to plan, repair, construct and/or acquire new police facilities. These investments will support First Nation and Inuit communities to ensure their policing infrastructure meets building, policing facility, and health and safety standards.
Calls for Justice: 5.5
Calls for Miskotahâ: N/A

Planned Milestones 2022-23

Planned for 2022-23

In fiscal year 2022-2023, Public Safety 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.

Update on 2022-23

In 2022-2023, Public Safety has allocated funding for 27 police infrastructure projects, as well as professional assessments of building conditions for community owned police facilities in the following regions:

BC & Yukon (2 facilities)
Prairies & NWT (1 facility)
ON (11 facilities)
QC & Nunavut (12 facilities)
Atlantic (1 facility)

Coming up in 2023-24

In 2023-2024, Public Safety will continue to allocate funding for police infrastructure projects, as well as conducting professional assessments of building conditions for community owned police facilities. There are currently 27 projects being forecasted in the following regions:

BC & Yukon (1 facility)
Prairies & NWT (2 facilities)
ON (18 facilities)
QC & Nunavut (6 facilities)

Planned Engagement for 2022-23

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.

Update on 2022-23 Engagement

No update.

Calls for Justice/Calls for Miskotahâ

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.

Initiative: Expansion and Stabilization of the First Nations and Inuit Policing Program (FNIPP)

Lead department(s): Public Safety Canada
Funding: $523.8M/5 years and $126.8M ongoing
Description: Expanding and stabilizing the First Nations and Inuit Policing Program (FNIPP). Currently, the FNIPP is oversubscribed, with about 40% of eligible First Nation and Inuit communities unable to access the program. In collaboration with interested communities, provinces and territories, this initiative will support greater access to more equitable and culturally responsive police services in First Nation and Inuit communities, in keeping with the principles of self-governance, self-determination and reconciliation.
Calls for Justice: 5.4, 5.5
Calls for Miskotahâ: N/A

Planned Milestones 2022-23

Planned for 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.
On July 22, 2022, the Federal Provincial Territorial FNIPP Working Group agreed to apply the funding methodology for allocating $17.9M at 52% of new funding to First Nation and Inuit communities as part of Stage one funding (2022-23). The areas of investments were new officers in Community Tripartite Agreements (CTAs) and Self-Administered police services (SAs). Transition of a CTA to an SA.
New communities joining existing SAs, Community Safety Officer projects, SA Operational Budgets and one-time funding for feasibility assessments of new SAs.
Discussions with provincial and territorial partners and First Nation and Inuit communities for Stage Two funding (2023-24) will begin in early Fall 2022.

Update on 2022-23

FNIPP continued to focus on the priorities that informs the nature and scope of each area of investment by stabilizing current agreement holders and expanding the program into new communities.

93 new and ongoing projects were accomplished during 2022-2023.

BC & Yukon (6)
Prairies & NWT (15)
ON (32)
QC & Nunavut (33)
Atlantic (7)

Federal Provincial Territorial FNIPP working group met in early February 2023 to determine the funding distribution for Stage two to First Nations and Inuit communities (2023-2024). The areas of investments are new officers in Community Tripartite Agreements (CTAs) and Self-Administered police services (SAs). Transition of CTAs to SAs as well as other stabilization and expansion of existing services.

Coming up in 2023-24

FNIPP will focus on the implementation of $8.2M at 52% to First Nations and Inuit communities as part of Stage two funding (2023-2024). The areas of investments are new officers in Community Tripartite Agreements (CTAs) and Self-Administered police services (SAs). Transition of CTAs to SAs as well as other stabilization and expansion of existing services. Feedback from Stage one implementation will be incorporated in 2023-2024 approach. FNIPP will align its approach to progress in the co-development of legislation and work toward increased effectiveness and improved outcomes.

43 projects have been identified for development and funding based on findings from Phase one and validation from PTs. New communities joining existing SAs, Community Safety Officer projects, Community Consultative Groups, SA Operational Budgets and one-time funding for feasibility assessments of new SAs. The focus is to help stabilize and expand the program to address immediate needs, add program flexibility, and prioritize gaps.

Planned Engagement for 2022-23

National and Regional/Community-Based Partners

All funding decisions undertaken as part of Stage One (2022-23) were undertaken in collaboration with our provincial and territorial partners.

Stage Two funding will include discussions with provincial and territorial partners and First Nation and Inuit communities including the First Nations Chiefs of Police Association, community leaders, and a CTA focus group comprised of community members.

Update on 2022-23 Engagement

Public Safety Canada continues to engage with First Nations as requested. Public Safety Canada also continues to collaborate with the provinces and territories, the First Nations Chiefs of Police Association, the First Nations Police Governance Council, and First Nations modern treaty and self-governing agreement signatories to identify practical considerations to inform the proposed federal legislation and continues to work to stabilize and expand the First Nations and Inuit Policing Program.

Through funding and support to provinces for engagement sessions for community consultative groups (CCGs) and police advisory boards (PABs), FNIPP will fund engagement sessions nationwide to promote discussion around the creation and function of CCGs and PABs.

Calls for Justice/Calls for Miskotahâ

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.

Initiative: Increase prosecutorial capacity, including Indigenous victim and witness support in the three territories

Lead department(s): Public Prosecution Service of Canada
Funding: $23.5M/3 years (shared by all four public initiatives)
Description: Increasing the number of prosecutors, administrators, Crown Witness Coordinators and paralegals to enable the PPSC to improve the level of security, justice and support provided to Indigenous victims and their families, witnesses and communities experiencing violence, including intimate partner violence and sexual assault in Yukon, the Northwest Territories and Nunavut.
Calls for Justice: 1.5, 5.12, 9.2
Calls for Miskotahâ: N/A

Planned Milestones 2022-23

Update on 2022-23

Increasing prosecutorial capacity in order to improve support for Indigenous victims and witnesses remains a top priority for the organization. However, despite consistent efforts, hiring in the North remains incredibly challenging. While some progress has been made, external factors such as a lack of childcare, non-competitive salaries and benefits and the type of work continue to be contributing factors to recruitment and retention challenges in the North. Nonetheless, a total of 25 positions have been staffed to increase prosecutorial capacity in the three territories. Since April 2022 22 staffing actions have been completed, and 3 staffing processes are currently underway. A Northern Recruitment Strategy is being developed which focusses on addressing immediate gaps and reaching full capacity through additional outreach, partnerships, innovative advertising and branding techniques, as well as custom approaches by region and job category.

Crown Witness Coordinators (CWC) provide a service to bridge the cultural gap between the court system and First Nations and Inuit victims and witnesses engaged in the court process. The main role of CWCs is to help victims and witnesses understand the court process, the roles of the court participants and, for the victims, their rights and responsibilities under the Canadian Victims Bill of Rights. CWCs provide court updates, accompany witnesses to court, provide support during and after testimony, and assist with trial preparation. CWCs also act as liaisons between Crown counsel, victims, and witnesses, to ensure that their concerns are considered during the justice process. Given the key role CWCs play in providing support to victims, aggressive hiring of CWCs is a key part of the new hiring strategy.

In addition, focused prosecutorial strategies have been implemented, which include a team of senior prosecutors, CWCs and support staff to address the unique issues related to sexual offences, including ones with significant violence, in the Northwest Territories. In Nunavut, a team led by an Inuk senior counsel, focused upon Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit (IQ), has been created to identify cases in three communities that can benefit from approaches to prosecution, witness interaction, alternative sentencing and sentencing options that are informed by IQ. Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit is an Inuit belief in how to make whole human beings, people aware of themselves, their environment, and their community.

Coming up in 2023-24

The PPSC will focus on implementing its Northern Recruitment Strategy to achieve a full staff complement in 2023-24. In particular, given the key role Crown Witness Coordinators (CWCs) play in providing support to victims, aggressive hiring of CWCs will remain a key part of this hiring strategy.

Calls for Justice/Calls for Miskotahâ

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.

Initiative: Create and staff four Inuktut-speaking Inuit paralegal positions in Nunavut

Lead department(s): Public Prosecution Service of Canada
Funding: $23.5M/3 years (shared by all four PPSC initiatives)
Description: The Nunavut Agreement protects Inuit rights, including employment as set out in Article 23. The new paralegal positions will assist in meeting obligations under Article 23 of the Nunavut Agreement and support the Nunavut Court of Justice initiative to increase Inuit representation within the Courts.
Calls for Justice: 5.12
Calls for Miskotahâ: N/A

Planned Milestones 2022-23

Planned for 2022-23

In Nunavut, these paralegals will act as the Crown and attend Justice of the Peace court to conduct bail hearings, speak to docket matters and conduct sentencing hearings on low-complexity summary conviction matters.

Two of the paralegal positions were filled in June 2022 (Q1). An external process to hire a third paralegal will be launched in Q3 with expectations that the position will be filled in Q4. The Nunavut regional office will assess the volume and scope of work related to these positions before moving forward with hiring a fourth Inuk paralegal.

Update on 2022-23

Four Inuktut-speaking Inuit paralegal positions were created as planned. In Nunavut, these paralegals will act as the Crown and attend Justice of the Peace court to conduct bail hearings, speak to docket matters and conduct sentencing hearings on low-complexity summary conviction matters. The paralegals will be called Court Workers, to reflect that they will be engaged directly with the court process, rather than fulfilling the usual role of a paralegal.

Two of the paralegal positions were filled in June 2022 (Q1). Following an external process a further internal candidate was hired to the program and is commencing in this role in Q4.

Coming up in 2023-24

By Q1 of 2023-24, all four Inuktut-speaking Inuit paralegal positions in PPSC's Nunavut Regional Office will be staffed.

Planned Engagement for 2022-23

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

Update on 2022-23 Engagemen

The PPSC remains engaged with these partners.

Calls for Justice/Calls for Miskotahâ

The importance of Inuit representation and the ability for PPSC employees in Nunavut to speak in Inuktut, 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.

Initiative: Develop and pursue a one-time engagement strategy

Lead department(s): Public Prosecution Service of Canada
Funding: $23.5M/3 years (shared by all four PPSC initiatives)
Description: Engaging victims, Elders and community leaders of First Nations, Métis and Inuit communities currently served by the PPSC in Yukon, the Northwest Territories and Nunavut. The overall objective is to build a relationship with Indigenous communities and increase confidence and willingness of Indigenous victims and witnesses of violent crime to engage the criminal justice process and allow for greater ability to address root causes of violent crime through restorative justice approaches.
Calls for Justice: 9.2, 9.2ii
Calls for Miskotahâ: N/A

Planned Milestones 2022-23

Planned for 2022-23

The PPSC is committed to engaging with local justice committee members and/or Elders to identify culturally appropriate and trauma-informed approaches for victims and witnesses. The organization is steering its engagement efforts toward a more regional and local approach as part of an integrated and organic approach intended to complement the development of prosecutorial innovations rather than the original pan-northern approach, while it follows the evolution of the Department of Justice's Indigenous Engagement Strategy.

Since April 2022, prosecution teams in the Northwest Territories and in Nunavut have been engaging with local NGOs and Indigenous community leaders to address sexual violence issues in these regions (The Northwest Territories and Nunavut have the highest rates of sexual violence in the country).

The Nunavut Office is also working to incorporate Inuit societal values and principles in its prosecutorial approach by including Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit, also known as "IQ", into its prosecutorial decision-making. Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit is an Inuit belief in how to make whole human beings, people aware of themselves, their environment, and their community. The team is currently in the process of recruiting translators and Elders to facilitate engagement with local communities and guide the application of IQ principles within the Nunavut Court of Justice.

Update on 2022-23

In 2022-23, the Sexual Violence Prosecution Team (SVPT) in the Northwest Territories Regional Office has engaged with local NGOs who provide support to victims of gender-based violence, such as the YWCA and the Northern Mosaic Network involved in the 2SLGBTQ+ community. In August 2022, members of the SVPT participated in a community engagement event organized by the Government of the Northwest Territories' Gender Equity Division in the Beaufort Delta region. The SVPT also met with the leadership of the Gwichʼin Tribal Council. In March 2023, the Northwest Territories Regional Office reached out to the GNWT Justice Department to explore the possibility of a partnership with the PPSC in a broader community engagement process.

The Nunavut Regional Office has begun a targeted approach to prosecuting sexual violence files, with a dedicated Senior Counsel providing training and support for these prosecutions. The Nunavut Regional Office is also in the process of recruiting translators and Elders to facilitate engagement with local communities and guide the application of IQ principles within the Nunavut Court of Justice. The team has identified two communities in which to run a pilot program using IQ principles in the diversion and sentencing of criminal matters.

Coming up in 2023-24

Engagement efforts in the Northwest Territories and in Nunavut will continue in 2023-24, and the knowledge and lessons learned gathered from these activities will be shared with the Yukon Office to assist them in developing an engagement strategy that is meaningful for their region.

Planned Engagement for 2022-23

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.

Update on 2022-23 Engagement

Please see content provided in the update on 2022-23.

Calls for Justice/Calls for Miskotahâ

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.

Initiative: Improve the Inuit Justice training curriculum and develop new Justice training curriculums that reflect First Nations and Métis realities respectively

Lead department(s): Public Prosecution Service of Canada
Funding: $23.5M/3 years (shared by all four PPSC initiatives)
Description: Updating and expanding the existing Inuit Justice training curriculum to include new training sessions and modules that are more comprehensive. New First Nations and Métis Justice training curriculums will be developed. Distinctions-based consultations will inform the format and content of all three curriculums.
Calls for Justice: 10.1, 16.27, 17.8, 17.29
Calls for Miskotahâ: N/A

Planned Milestones 2022-23

Planned for 2022-23

The delivery of PPSC-specific training for prosecutors that focuses on equipping them to apply an intersectional lens to their prosecutorial work began in 2021-22 and will continue into 2023-24. In 2022-23, 11 training sessions are planned: 3 training sessions were delivered in Q1; 2 sessions were delivered in Q2; 3 are scheduled in Q3; and, 3 are scheduled in Q4.

In addition, the services of the consulting firm NVision Insight Group Inc. were acquired in 2022-23, following a Request for Proposal that was launched to solicit bids from Indigenous-based organizations. The curriculum has been developed and training sessions are planned in Q3 and Q4 across five regions. Training delivery across remaining regions and directorates will continue throughout 2023-24.

Update on 2022-23

Over the last two years, the PPSC has trained more than 70% of its prosecutors on applying an intersectional lens to their prosecutorial work. In 2022-23, the PPSC developed a 2nd edition of this training, which targets the paralegal community. In February and March 2023, four sessions were delivered, which resulted in more than 90% of paralegals trained in this area.

In 2022-23, the PPSC developed a training curriculum for its prosecution teams that focuses on Crown-Indigenous relations, anti-racism, bias, trauma and Gladue reports. This curriculum is divided into four modules. The first module focuses on the historical relationship between the Crown and Indigenous peoples; the second, on cultural competency and current realities and aims to challenge stereotypes associated with Indigenous, First Nations, Inuit and Métis people; the third focuses on intergenerational trauma and trauma-informed practices; and, the final module provides hands-on training on Gladue principles and the role of the Crown.

NVision delivered a pilot training session in Q2 of 2022-23. Following a few adjustments, all four modules were delivered to the PPSC's Ontario Regional Office.

Coming up in 2023-24

The PPSC plans on training the remainder of its prosecutors and paralegals on applying an intersectional lens to prosecutorial work through the delivery of 8 more sessions in 2023-24.

With the support of NVision, the delivery of PPSC's training on Indigenous Reconciliation will intensify and continue through the 2023-24 fiscal year. The training will continue to be delivered across the regions and territories in order to facilitate the incorporation of local and regional Indigenous realities.

Planned Engagement for 2022-23

Update on 2022-23 Engagement

The PPSC consulted both of its internal Indigenous committees and co-developed the curriculum with NVision Insight Group Inc., an Indigenous-based organization with a strong background in development and delivery of Indigenous-related cultural competency training.

Calls for Justice/Calls for Miskotahâ

The PPSC's training on Indigenous Reconciliation supports Calls for Justice 10.1, 16.27, 17.8, 17.29. The first three modules are mandatory for all PPSC employees, and the 4th module is also mandatory for all prosecutors. Cultural competency regarding First nations, Métis and Inuit realities are addressed, with a particular focus on local and regional realities that apply to PPSC offices across all provinces and territories.

Initiative: Resource review at the CSC healing lodge for women

Lead department(s): Correctional Service of Canada
Funding: The source of funds would be within CSC's existing mechanisms.
Description: Identifying the capacity required to effectively address the rehabilitation and intervention needs of indigenous women, ultimately enhancing their potential for successful reintegration in partnership with Okimaw Ohci Healing Lodge (OOHL), a multi-level security facility for women located in Saskatchewan. Established in 1995, OOHL provides culturally appropriate programming and traditional healing practices, facilitated by Elders and Spiritual Advisors.
The review will assess the resource allocation model for women offender institutions vis-à-vis the current funding structure and operational needs of OOHL.
Calls for Justice: 14.6, 14.8

Planned Milestones 2022-23

Planned for 2022-23

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

Renewed consultation with the site and other stakeholders – October/November 2022
Submission of draft business case – February 2023
Review by executive committee – March 2023
Finalization of business case – April 2023
Submission for approval – June 2023

Update on 2022-23

At this time, CSC is examining the best approach to the finalization and submission of a business case to review resources at CSC healing lodges for women. CSC's Executive Committee continues to review the needs and challenges of CSC healing lodges

In December 2022, an in-person Healing Lodge meeting was held with Directors from both section 81 facilities and CSC-run healing lodges. This meeting was an opportunity to discuss mandate commitments and ongoing challenges and barriers with management at CSC. Discussions held during this meeting will inform future decision making for CSC healing lodges.

Coming up in 2023-24

Plans provided in 2022-2023 remain relevant for 2023-24. CSC will work to continue supporting and working with CSC healing lodges to ensure appropriate resource allocation.

Planned Engagement for 2022-23

National and Regional/Community-Based Partners

Okimaw Ohci Healing Lodge, in conjunction with the Nekaneet First Nation in Saskatchewan.

Update on 2022-23 Engagement

CSC continues to work with Nekaneet First Nation in Saskatchewan to support Okimaw Ohci Healing Lodge for Women.

Calls for Justice/Calls for Miskotahâ

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.

Initiative: Research on security assessment tools

Lead department(s): Correctional Service of Canada
Funding: The source of funds would be within CSC's existing mechanisms.
Description: Working with external academic partners to look at the development of Indigenous Risk Assessment tools and decision-making processes. This initiative is designed to inform CSC of ways in which the security assessment tools and processes may be more gender informed and culturally relevant for Indigenous cultures. A large part of this process involves seeking the input of Indigenous voices through a variety of means led by the external academics using Indigenous Research Methodologies. These approaches are designed to embed Indigenous voices throughout the development process and will inform the content and processes that are involved in security assessments.
Calls for Justice: 14.4
Calls for Miskotahâ: N/A

Planned Milestones 2022-23

Planned for 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.

The Service Exchange Agreement with the University of Regina has been signed. It is anticipated that by March 31, 2023 the work for this year will be completed. This will include a revised consultation plan, a new research ethics board submission, and an initial scoping of the next steps in producing culturally relevant security classification tools.

Update on 2022-23

Research as outlined in the Service Exchange Agreement must be submitted to CSC by March 31, 2023. The University indicates that the work is complete and final reports for submission will be submitted by the deadline.

Coming up in 2023-24

A new Service Exchange Agreement will be entered into early in the new fiscal year. Exact details of the next steps in this project and thus the deliverables in the new Service Exchange Agreement will be dependent upon the findings in the deliverables for the current fiscal year and discussions with the University of Regina.

Planned Engagement for 2022-23

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.

Update on 2022-23 Engagement

The University of Regina reports that the research is complete for this current fiscal year and final reports are being prepared for submission the Research Branch, Correctional Service of Canada.

Calls for Justice/Calls for Miskotahâ

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

Initiative: RCMP Intercultural Learning Strategy

Lead department(s): Royal Canadian Mounted Police
Funding: $75M/5 years^{Footnote 13}
Description: The RCMP Intercultural Learning Strategy uses a consultation-based approach for training content sourcing, design, promotion, policy and delivery to integrate intercultural competence throughout all aspects of learning. By supporting employee competence through a number of learning activities, this work will support one of the Federal Pathway's objectives to enhance relationships between police services and Indigenous communities.
Calls for Justice: 9.1. 9.2i, 9.2ii, 9.2iv
Calls for Miskotahâ: 6c, 6d, 39

Planned Milestones 2022-23

Planned for 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 the first quarter of 2022-2033, the RCMP will launch its new Restorative Justice Guide, along with an updated version of the Uniting Against Racism course to reflect feedback received from Indigenous communities.

Throughout the 2nd and 3rd quarters, the RCMP will launch an Advanced Sexual Offence Investigations course, and following external consultations, will launch updated versions of the Using a Trauma-Informed Approach course and Cultural Awareness and Humility course.

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.

Update on 2022-23

The RCMP launched the Intercultural Learning Strategy and micro-learning products through its What's Your Perspective series. A thorough evaluation report on 15,000 learners was drafted to inform updates to the Uniting Against Racism course. The Sexual Offence Investigations Course and the Survivor-Led Human Trafficking Detection Training course were launched. The Restorative Justice guide was prepared for piloting, and a consultation-based pilot of the Body-Worn Camera training was launched as well.

Coming up in 2023-24

The Royal Canadian Mounted Police will use a consultative approach in the design and/or launch of the following online courseware for all employees in 2023-2024, including:

Updated Uniting Against Racism Learning Series to reflect learner feedback, including feedback received from Indigenous communities
Restorative Justice Guide
What's your perspective (ongoing micro-learning series)
Updated Missing Persons Investigations course
Advanced Sexual Offence Investigations course
Race-based data collection training

Consultation data will also inform:

An RCMP learning catalogue review
Documented standards for intercultural competence in training design and delivery
Guides and tools to support learning professionals in applying standards
Policy for consultation on learning in the RCMP
Intercultural competence learning roadmap to support intercultural skill building at all categories and levels

Evaluation and reporting on change

Planned Engagement for 2022-23

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.

Update on 2022-23 Engagement

In 2022-2023, the RCMP engaged in several discussions with Pauktuutit and Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami regarding training and the Intercultural Learning Strategy's commitment to consultation and engagement with Indigenous communities.
Pauktuutit and Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami have been granted access to a consultation portal that enables community organizations to access and provide feedback on select learning products, and completed a review of the Uniting Against Racism learning series.
Learning and Development provided the draft Intercultural Learning Strategy to Pauktuutit and Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami for review, and look forward to continued consultation as the strategy is implemented
As the Intercultural Learning Strategy's external consultation activities evolve, Pauktuutit and other National Indigenous Organizations will be formally engaged via focus group discussions and meetings to not only review existing material, but to also identify training gaps, and advise on opportunities for additional learning products and delivery approaches.
Formal consultation is expected to begin in Spring/Summer 2023. Ongoing touch points are welcome in the meantime and beyond.

Coming up in 2023-24

There will be increased engagement with Indigenous communities to continue to inform the integration of intercultural competence throughout learning content, delivery and evaluation.
Planning is underway for formal focus group discussions/interviews with nine National Indigenous Organizations throughout 2023-2024 to inform the deliverables listed in the previous column. The first round of formal consultations is planned for the 1st and 2nd quarters.
Consultation will be ongoing to ensure that learning material and related policies remain relevant and evergreen.
Prior to publication of the Restorative Justice Mindset course, it is being shared with National Indigenous Organizations for consultation and review prior to being finalized and published.

Calls for Justice/Calls for Miskotahâ

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 addition, RCMP employees have access to a suite of training related to sexual offence investigations. Relevant courses include, Using a Trauma Informed Approach, Sexual Offence Investigations, Intimate Partner Violence, Consent Law and Common Sexual Assault Myths, and Survivor-Led Human Trafficking Detection Training.

These initiatives respond to the Calls for Justice by supporting the training and education of RCMP employees in all ranks and categories so that they understand and implement culturally appropriate and trauma-informed practices, including when dealing with families of missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA people. The RCMP's Intercultural Learning Strategy aims to address bias and racism toward all groups, including Indigenous communities by using a partnership and consultation-based approach to integrate intercultural competence throughout the training practices, policies, development, delivery and evaluation.

Initiative: Funding for increased Criminal Legal Aid supports

Lead department(s): Justice Canada
Funding: $60M in 2023-24
Description: This additional criminal legal aid funding will increase the capacity of legal aid service providers to ensure that economically disadvantaged individuals, in particular, the disproportionate number of Indigenous peoples, individuals from Black and other racialized communities, all who are overrepresented in the Canadian justice system are better supported by legal aid services when accessing the criminal justice system.
Calls for Justice: 5.13
Calls for Miskotahâ: N/A

Planned Milestones 2022-23

Planned for 2022-23

Budget 2022 provided $60 Million in 2023-24 to increase the federal contribution to criminal legal aid The amount is to support access to legal aid for marginalized groups across Canada, including Indigenous people, in partnership with Provinces and Territories.

Q1: Criminal legal aid distribution formula premised on need (including Indigenous population) and demand finalized through consultations with the jurisdictions.
Q2: 2022-23 to 2026-27 Agreements Respecting Criminal Legal Aid to ten provinces and Access to Justice Services Agreements for the Territories offered to jurisdictions.
Q2: Treasury Board approval received for Budget 2022 funding.
Q3: Parliamentary approval of Budget 2022 funding expected.

Update on 2022-23

Parliamentary approval of Budget 2022 funding deferred to Q1 2023-24
Five-year agreements respecting criminal legal aid between Canada and the provinces and territories were offered to the jurisdictions. However, Quebec did not accept the offer and requested a two-year (2022-23 to 2023-24) agreement instead of five years.

Coming up in 2023-24

Once Parliamentary approval is received, the additional $60M will be allocated to the provinces and territories increasing the total federal contribution to criminal legal aid to $202.4M in 2023-24.

Planned Engagement for 2022-23

Pressures are critically affecting the delivery of legal aid services, reducing access to justice for economically disadvantaged Canadians (including Indigenous and racialized community populations.
Maintain service delivery enhancements recently implemented post-COVID, support access to justice for vulnerable populations, and contribute to an equitable level of criminal legal aid services across the jurisdictions.
Ongoing discussions with the FPT Permanent Working Group on Legal Aid on legal aid pressures, including how to address the overrepresentation of Indigenous Peoples and members of racialized communities. Ongoing discussions on the need to better collect and report on these populations. Currently, not all jurisdictions collect data on the number of Indigenous clients that access legal aid.

Update on 2022-23 Engagement

Through the work of the FPT Permanent Working Group on Legal Aid (PWG), Justice Canada continues to collaborate with FPT governments and legal aid plans to improve the effectiveness of legal aid service delivery to vulnerable populations, including Indigenous peoples. Most recently, in lieu of its annual in-person meeting, the PWG held a series of five virtual meetings (November 2022 and January 2023) where legal aid issues including the overrepresentation of Indigenous peoples and individuals from Black and other racialized communities in the justice system, continues to be a focused topic of discussion.

Calls for Justice/Calls for Miskotahâ

5.13 Calls upon federal, provincial and territorial governments and actors in the justice system to ensure that Indigenous women, girls, and 2LSGBTQQIA+ people have access to justice supports, and guaranteed access to legal services in order to defend and assert their human rights and Indigenous rights.

This funding will provide a short-term injection of funding into the criminal legal aid system, which will benefit marginalized groups including Indigenous people.

Initiative: Indigenous Awareness Training, race-based data collection study, and Systemic Review in Nunavut to examine the RCMPs handling of the public complaint process

Lead Department: Civilian Review and Complaints Commission for the RCMP (CRCC)
Funding: Existing funding and Program Integrity Funding
Description: The Chairperson of the CRCC will be launching a review of the RCMP's handling of the public complaint process in Nunavut. The systemic investigation will examine the RCMP's policies and training related to the public complaint process; whether or not Nunavut RCMP are complying with their policies and training; and the RCMP's accountability framework in relation to the public complaints process. The CRCC has also established a contract with an Indigenous company to conduct research into the awareness of and confidence in the public complaint process in Nunavut. Lastly, the CRCC will conduct Indigenous Awareness Training with its staff.
Calls for Justice: 1.6, 2.1, 5.5, 9.2ii, 16.2, 16.3, and 16.43. 16.44, 18.4
Calls for Miskotahâ: 5

Planned Milestones 2022-23

Planned for 2022-23

Q1:Launch of the Nunavut Systemic Investigation by the Chairperson
Q1: Contract with Indigenous firm to undertake research
Q2:Submission of first draft report
Q2: Finalization of report
Q3: Indigenous Awareness Training has been identified in the Public Service Performance Management Plan for all employees of the Commission. To this end, Indigenous Cultural Competency Training will be provided to all operational staff, including investigators, lawyers, intake officers, and analysts.
Q3:Trauma-informed interview training will be provided to all operational staff including investigators, lawyers, intake officers and analysts.
Q4:Nunavut Systemic Investigation report signed by the Chairperson and submitted to the RCMP for response. The report will be made public in Inuktitut, as well as both official languages.

Update on 2022-23

The CRCC launched the Nunavut Systemic Investigation in August 2022 and contracted NVision Insight Group, an Indigenous-owned research firm, to conduct consultations regarding the public complaint process in Nunavut. The National Inuit Strategy on Research was followed to develop the contract, which importantly included a clause on Inuit ownership over data. The contractor provided their report to the CRCC in December 2022. It will be used to inform the larger review and added as an annex to the final report.
In February 2023, operational staff participated in trauma-informed interview training delivered by the Justice Institute of British Columbia. This training helped staff understand the principles of trauma-informed approaches and how they could be applied to CRCC activities.
Operational staff completed two cycles of Indigenous Cultural Competency Training in March 2023. Delivered by the Ontario Federation of Indigenous Friendship Centres, this training enhanced staff knowledge on Indigenous peoples' cultural and treaty rights, as well as culturally appropriate approaches to engagement and collaboration.

Coming up in 2023-24

The Nunavut Systemic Investigation is on track for completion by the end of summer 2023. The final report, including the annex, will be translated into the two Inuit dialects of Inuktitut and Inuinnaqtun, as well as both official languages.
In March 2023, the Chairperson of the CRCC launched a review of the governance, structure, and operations of the RCMP "E" Division Community-Industry Response Group (C-IRG). This systemic investigation will include a detailed examination of RCMP policies, procedures, guidelines, and training.
Where appropriate, the investigation will also examine C-IRG operations as they relate to the standards and expectations set by Bill C-15, An Act respecting the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP), the British Columbia Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (DRIPA), and the calls for justice from the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls Inquiry (MMIWG).

In the upcoming fiscal year, CRCC staff will continue to participate in training on Indigenous cultures.

Planned Engagement for 2022-23

Spring 2022 – Stakeholder engagement regarding Nunavut Systemic Investigation on public complaints
Fall 2022 – Research regarding Nunavut Systemic Investigation on public complaints

Update on 2022-23 Engagement

Stakeholder consultation and research concerning the Nunavut Systemic Investigation on the public complaint process concluded in late 2022. This engagement informed the report completed by the contractor and shared with the CRCC. In late February 2023, CRCC staff also visited Iqaluit, Nunavut to continue relationship-building efforts. More engagement is planned in the upcoming fiscal year.

Calls for Justice/Calls for Miskotahâ

The Nunavut Systemic Investigation supports Calls for Justice 1.6, 5.5, 9.2ii, 16.43, 16.44, and 18.4. By reviewing the RCMP's handling of public complaints in the territory, the CRCC demonstrates commitment to delivering a robust complaint process and oversight mechanism that protects the rights of Nunavummiut, and ensures a high level of accountability already expected in other communities. The Commission also prioritized working with an Indigenous-owned firm to conduct stakeholder consultation and research to inform the overall review. Its efforts to translate the final report into the Inuit dialects of Inuktitut and Inuinnaqtun specifically aligns with Calls for Justice 2.1, 16.2 and 16.3, which demand recognition of Indigenous cultural and language rights as inherent rights.

Training on Indigenous cultural competency and trauma-informed approaches provided to CRCC operational staff are linked to Calls for Justice 1.6, 5.5, 9.2ii, 16.3, 16.43, 16.44, and 18.4. These courses ensure that staff are equipped with knowledge and skills to help them interact with Indigenous peoples in culturally appropriate ways, as well as develop policies and initiatives that meaningfully respond to the needs of Indigenous communities.

The Commission is studying the collection of identity data such as race, ethnicity, gender and other GBA+ variables with the goal of using it to inform research and improve the public complaints process for all Canadians, especially Indigenous and marginalized groups. The Commission is working with a contractor and seeking guidance on the collection of variables and methods. Part of this community engagement will target Indigenous populations, which includes Métis women and LGBTQ2S+ individuals and will be carried out by those who self-identify as Indigenous.

Initiative: Funding to support the continued operation of Family Information Liaison Units

Lead Department: Justice Canada
Funding (off cycle): In February 2023, the Government of Canada announced the commitment to renew and provide ongoing support for Family Information Liaison Units across the country. With this ongoing funding, FILUs will become a resource for families of missing or murdered Indigenous women and girls seeking information about their missing or murdered loved ones, ensuring it is available for as long as it is needed.
Description: FILUs were established in 2016 and have been renewed twice since then with one and three year funding authorities. This approach created significant stress for family member clients, and strain on FILU operations and partners. The intention for ongoing funding will create a sustainable long-term family-centred support that will permit new partnerships, increased capacity and new activities in response to the gaps that family members have identified in FILU operations since 2016 to increase responsiveness and impact.
Calls for Justice: FILUs support several of the MMIWG Inquiry Calls for Justice (specifically Calls for Justice 5.6; 16.29; 17.28) and the short term priorities of the co-developed NAP
Calls for Miskotahâ: 3.2 and 3.3

Planned Milestones 2022-23

The intention to continue federal funding for FILUs was announced in February 2023 by the Minister of Justice. The request for continued funding was approved by Finance through an off-cycle request submitted by Justice Canada given the current FILU funding authority was set to sunset March 31, 2023.

Reference to the new funding was included in B23.

Renewed and ongoing supports for families of missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people

Current activities:

Tresury Board approval of funding

This is intended funding that was announced in February 2023, prior to the release of the Budget 2023, in response to an off-cycle request to continue sunsetting funding.

Update on 2022-23

An off-cycle funding request was approved by the Department of finance in order for the FILUs to continue to provide services beyond 2022-23. With this approval and the Minister's announcement of the government's intention to renew federal funding for FILUs on an ongoing basis, the provinces and territories (PT) who deliver the FILUs were able to ensure a continuity of service.

Coming up in 2023-24

Budget 2023 has announced proposed funding of $95.8M over five years and $20.4M ongoing for renewal and expansion of FILUs and victim supports. TB approval is anticipated in the spring in order for Justice Canada to access those funds to ensure continued delivery of FILUs by all 13 PT jurisdictions. Additional work toward Indigenous-led and Indigenous designed services and supports will continue over 2023-24.

Planned Engagement for 2022-23

The Federal Victims Strategy (Justice Canada) proposal to renew FILU operations was based on formal evaluations, the ongoing and increased need, as well as input from justice partner community organizations and leadership. The value of FILU operations was noted by the Special Interlocutor for Missing Children and Unmarked Graves, as well as the Federal ombudsman for Victims of Crime, who called for the service to continue with federal support.

Update on 2022-23 Engagement

FILU teams were notified as soon as possible about the decision to renew FILU funding past March 31, 2023 (when it was set to sunset). They were also notified about the ongoing/sustainable nature.

The FILU national networks (operational and frontline) meet regularly. As many frontline team members are affected family members, and also work directly with family members and partner agencies in the justice system, they have played a key role in guiding federal Justice FILU policy and in Justice Canada's efforts to seek continued funding.

Calls for Justice/Calls for Miskotahâ

FILUs operations contribute to the implementation of several CFJs in relation to victim services, specifically 5.6, 16.29, 17.28 and others.

At the same time, FILU operations also created opportunities for all levels of government and justice sectors to strengthen relationships with family members and to further the implementation of several other recommendations made by the National inquiry into MMIWG and outlined in the NAP.

A permanent mandate for FILUs was called for by stakeholders to ensure that families would have access to this specialized team for as long as they are needed.

The NAP includes the continuation of FILU funding as a specific short term priority.

The Federal Pathway committed to exploring ways, and recognized FILUs as a good practice.

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Organizational Capacity and Coordination

Increasing the Organizational Capacity and Coordination of Indigenous Organizations

Improved coordination to address the Calls for Justice requires collaboration between all levels of government. Several Indigenous partners have called for the federal, provincial and territorial governments to address any barriers which may hinder implementation of those Calls. The federal government recognizes the need to collaborate with all levels of government – provincial, territorial and Indigenous – and convening discussions to improve access and break down barriers. For example, Indigenous women and 2SLGBTQ persons access services and supports primarily though Indigenous front line organizations. There, they obtain assistance, guidance, health services and advice in a culturally supportive setting. Hearing those voices is critical in improving funding, understanding barriers and breaking down silos.
In 2022-23, the federal government continued to flow funding to grassroots organizations working on issues related to MMIWG2S+. Highlights of this work include:

Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs provided funding to enhance support for Indigenous women's and 2SLGBTQI+ organizations.
On January 10, 2023, Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs collaborated with Indigenous partners, provinces and territories, and other federal government departments, to host the first federal-provincial-territorial-Indigenous Roundtable on Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people.

Full details on Federal Pathway initiatives under the Organizational Capacity and Coordination theme can be found below.

Organizational Capacity and Coordination Initiatives

Initiative: Federal – Provincial – Territorial – Indigenous Table

Lead Department(s): CIRNAC
Funding: $2.5M/5 years
Description: Establish a Federal-Provincial-Territorial-Indigenous Table on MMIWG
Calls for Justice: 1.6
Calls for Miskotahâ: N/A

Planned Milestones 2022-23

Planned for 2022-23

Q1:Develop engagement materials and approaches.
Q2: CIRNAC to bilaterally engage with Provinces and Territories, Indigenous partners and other Government Departments; development of draft Terms of Reference and other foundational documents. Confirming participation of Ministers, Indigenous partners.
Q3: First Federal, Provincial, Territorial, Indigenous table meeting.
Q4: Publish report on first FPTI meeting.

Update on 2022-23

In collaboration with Indigenous partners, provinces and territories, and other federal government departments, CIRNAC developed an approach for a national federal-provincial-territorial-Indigenous Roundtable on Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people. The Roundtable was a half day, virtual meeting with Indigenous partners from the national and regional levels (invited through the Provinces and Territories), Ministerial level representatives from a series of federal government portfolios as well as from all provinces and territories. It took place on January 10, 2023.

The meeting focused on hearing from Indigenous voices on topics including families and survivors and the urban environment, as well as updates from the federal, provincial and territorial ministerial representatives. Topics were introduced by Indigenous grassroots speakers, followed by open dialogue. The meeting was moderated by two Indigenous women. Over 200 participants attended. They were able to participate in the discussion either on camera or in the chat. The report was published in April 2023.

Coming up in 2023-24

Budget 2023 has announced proposed funding of $2.5M over 5 years, starting in 2023-24 to "facilitate and coordinate work on advancing the National Action Plan by establishing a standing Federal-Provincial-Territorial-Indigenous table on Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and 2SLGBTQI+ People. This table will provide a specific forum to take action on areas of shared roles and responsibilities regarding Missing and Murdered Indigenous, Women, Girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ People, including prioritizing discussion on how to launch a "Red Dress Alert" to notify the public when an Indigenous woman or two-spirit person goes missing."

CIRNAC will be working with Indigenous partners, provinces and territories, to develop the format of the standing table and to discuss the "Red Dress Alert". A second formal FPTI meeting will be planned for Q3 of 2023/24

Planned Engagement for 2022-23

Developing an Federal – Provincial- Territorial- Indigenous table requires pre-engagement and engagement with Indigenous partners), Provinces and Territories, and other federal government departments to discuss the format and agenda.

Update on 2022-23 Engagement

CIRNAC engaged Indigenous partners, including the National Family and Survivor Circle, the Urban Working Group, the 2SLGBTQQIA+ Committee, the Assembly of First Nations, Inuit Tapariit Kanatami, Les Femmes Michif Otipemisiwak, Congress of Aboriginal Peoples, Native Women's Association of Canada, and several regional Indigenous women's organizations to discuss the concept of the Roundtable, as well as the potential agenda for the meeting. CIRNAC also engaged at various levels (Director General, as well as Deputy Minister) with Provinces and Territories, as well as with federal government departments in the lead up to the meeting on January 10, 2023.

Calls for Justice/Calls for Miskotahâ

This initiative responds to Call for Justice 1.6 which recommends that all governments work to eliminate jurisdictional gaps.

The National Action Plan Report's immediate next steps include a call for the creation of a Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls Federal-Provincial/Territorial Table to provide a specific forum to consider and coordinate intergovernmental collaboration and discussion on various areas such as administrative issues, policy, resourcing, resolution of interjurisdictional responsibilities, and processes that emerge from the implementation of the National Action Plan.

Initiative: Funding to enhance support for Indigenous women's and 2SLGBTQQIA+ organizations

Lead department(s): Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs
Funding: $36.3M/5 years and $8.6M ongoing
Description: Ensuring that the voices and perspectives of Indigenous women and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people are reflected in all aspects of decision-making that impacts their lives.
Calls for Justice: 1.8
Calls for Miskotahâ: 7, 8

Planned Milestones 2022-23

Planned for 2022-23

Q1: Funding from 2021-22 CFP for multi-year projects flows and relationship building continues. Identify new or existing projects for a targeted call for proposals.
Q2: Conduct review of the relationships and funding agreements with recipients. Explore identified options for a targeted call for proposals.
Q3: Finalize approach for targeted call for proposals. Preparation of mid-program analysis. Planning for 2023-24.
Q4: Planning for 2023-24 continues and targeted call for proposals is implemented. Internal report preparation and design of Year 5 program review process.

Update on 2022-23

Q1 – Q3 completed. Q4 activities have been adjusted to reflect increased levels of funding allocated for FY 2023-24 through multiyear agreements put in place in Q4 of 2022-23. A call for proposals for 2024-25 and 2025-26 will be launched in Q3 of 2023-24.

Coming up in 2023-24

Design of program specific terms and conditions. Meetings with grassroots organizations and organization of interdepartmental meetings for outreach with organizations to share outcomes of projects. Analysis of data and outcomes.

Planned Engagement for 2022-23

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.

Update on 2022-23 Engagement

The environmental scan is evergreen and ongoing. Meetings are scheduled with multiple provincial governments in Q4 2022-23 and Q1 2023-24.

Calls for Justice/Calls for Miskotahâ

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.

Initiative: Establishment of the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ People Secretariat

Lead department(s): Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs
Funding: $16M/6 years
Description: This funding will support the establishment of a permanent MMIWG and 2SLGBTQQIA+ People Secretariat, to coordinate work across the federal government. The Secretariat will also continue to convene partners for the renewal of the Federal Pathway and National Action Plan, and to support related implementation work on the issues.
Calls for Justice: 1.1, 15.8
Calls for Miskotahâ: N/A

Planned Milestones 2022-23

Planned for 2022-23

The Secretariat will work with Indigenous partners, provinces and territories toward the renewal of the Federal Pathway and National Action Plan, as well as produce its first 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.

Update on 2022-23

The Secretariat coordinated the MMIWG Horizontal Initiative, which will be used to track progress on many Federal Pathway initiatives through the use of performance indicators.
The Secretariat coordinated with nearly 20 other government departments and agencies to publish the first Federal Pathway Annual Progress Report on June 3rd, 2023.
The MMIWG Secretariat led the process that resulted in the appointment of the Ministerial Special Representative (MSR) to engage with Indigenous partners about an Ombudsperson on Indigenous and Human Rights. This work will continue into 2023-24 and will support a report with recommendations from the MSR.

Indigenous Led Data Research Program

For fiscal year 22/23 the Indigenous Led Data Program approved 17 projects for Indigenous Led organizations, some of which are multi-year projects. The total funding contribution to this important work totaled 1.840 million for the 22/23 fiscal year.

Family And Survivors Program

For fiscal year 22/23 the Family and Survivors Program approved 14 projects, which were comprised of 1-2 year projects.
The total funding contribution to this healing work totaled 2.5 million for the 22/23 fiscal year.

Coming up in 2023-24

Budget 2023 has proposed an investment of $2.5M over 5 years for the establishment of a permanent Federal-Provincial-Territorial-Indigenous table on MMIWG. This table will provide a specific forum to take action on areas of shared roles and responsibilities regarding Missing and Murdered Indigenous, Women, Girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ People, including prioritizing discussion on how to launch a "Red Dress Alert" to notify the public when an Indigenous woman or two-spirit person goes missing. The Secretariat will be coordinating the second Roundtable meeting for 2023-24.
Budget 2023 has also proposed an investment of $2.2M over 5 years to establish an oversight mechanism on MMIWG. The Secretariat is planning a final phase of engagement to refine the recommendations for this mechanism, which will start in 2023-24.

Planned Engagement for 2022-23

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.

Update on 2022-23 Engagement

The Secretariat coordinated the first Roundtable of Indigenous Leaders and Representatives, Federal, Provincial and Territorial governments on January 10, 2023. The Roundtable brought together more than 250 Indigenous women, survivors, family members and members of a wide cross section of Indigenous organizations with key Ministers from federal, provincial and territorial governments to have an initial national dialogue on Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, (MMIWG) and 2SLGBTQI+ people, with a focus on how to improve cross jurisdictional collaboration, discuss areas of success, highlight areas of future focus related to MMIWG, including the perspectives from Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people, family members and survivors. The report of the meeting can be found here: Report of the Roundtable on Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and 2SLGBTQI+ People (rcaanc-cirnac.gc.ca)
Numerous bilateral domestic partner meetings have occurred this past year with the MMIWG Secretariat, some regular and some on an ad hoc basis, to share MMIWG updates, discuss funding opportunities, as well as to connect partners to other federal departments. The MMIWG Secretariat continues to work collaboratively with Indigenous partners, families and survivors throughout the year on missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people. Key partnerships include but are not limited to:
- National Families and Survivors Circle
- MMIWG2S+ Urban Action Group
- 2 Spirit LGBTQQIA+ Committtee
- Assembly of First Nations
- Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami
- Les Femmes Michif Otipemisiwak
- Congress of Aboriginal People
The Secretariat also coordinated 12 Federal-Provincial-Territorial working group meetings on MMIWG and 25 bilateral meetings with provinces and territories to discuss collaboration on MMIWG.
The Secretariat has undertaken a two part engagement on what an oversight mechanism could look like: In the late summer and fall of 2022, the MMIWG Secretariat had a series of pre-engagement meetings with Indigenous partners to have initial conversations. Based on this initial engagement, from January to March 2023, Innovation 7 (an Indigenous company) was contracted to conduct an engagement with Indigenous partners, based on the outcomes of the initial conversations. They have produced a report, in which they provide recommendations made by Indigenous partners for the oversight mechanism.
The Secretariat brought together over 25 federal departments and agencies to discuss MMIWG-relevant updates and initiatives. Six Assistant Deputy Minister and 15 Director General Steering Committee meetings took place, chaired by the MMIWG Secretariat.
The Secretariat was involved in international work, both with Global Affairs Canada on the development and implementation on their annual Canada-National Action Plans (4+ meetings) and the development of the Trilateral Working Group meetings. Additional conversations occurred with various countries to discuss reconciliation and MMIWG. These include Ireland, Israel and Australia.

Calls for Justice/Calls for Miskotahâ

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, and the National Action Plan 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 hold federal and to some extent provincial and territorial governments accountable to act on the MMIWG National Inquiry Report's Calls for Justice, 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.

Initiative: Enabling Inclusion and Stability: Increased Funding for Professional Arts Training Organizations

Lead department(s):Canadian Heritage
Funding:$22.5M/5 years, starting in 2022-23, and $5 million ongoing
Description:The Canada Arts Training Fund (CATF) is a nationally delivered program that provides ongoing operating funding to professional arts training organizations. The additional investment will continue to support the arts sector's recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic and address historic inequities in funding levels for Indigenous and racialized arts training organizations.
Calls for Justice: 2.2ii
Calls for Miskotahâ: N/A

Planned Milestones 2022-23

Planned for 2022-23

In 2022-2023 an additional $2.5 million has been allocated to the Canada Arts Training Fund through Budget 2022, and the policy priority for those funds is to enhance the funding levels of equity-deserving arts training organizations already receiving support through the program, with an emphasis on increasing support to Indigenous recipients.

Planned milestones for 2022-2023 are as follows:

Q1: Draft Treasury Board Submission seeking financial authority for budget increase; launch supplementary funding process for recurring recipients and launch 2023-2024 regular application intake, including targeted outreach and support to Indigenous stakeholders
Q2: Finalize supplement requests for 2022-2023; assess new applications received June 30, 2022 (for activities taking place in 2023-2024) prioritizing applications from recurring and new Indigenous applicants
Q3: Finalize funding recommendations for 2023-2024; develop targeted engagement plan for 2024-2025 and subsequent application deadlines
Q4: Begin implementation of engagement plan

Preliminary results reporting for 2022-2023 will be available in the 4th quarter.

Update on 2022-23

Treasury Board Submission was approved in September 2022. Supplemental requests for 2022-2023 were received, processed and approvals communicated to recipients. The five recurring Indigenous recipients supported by the program (12% of recipients) received an additional $870,000 in ongoing operating funding, representing 35% of the supplementary funds available to the program. Targeted outreach to eligible Indigenous applicants for the 2023-2024 intake resulted in one new application from an Indigenous training program.

Coming up in 2023-24

Announce funding recommendations for 2023-2024 and develop/begin implementation of engagement plan (milestone deferred from 2022-2023).

Planned Engagement for 2022-23

National partners/Regional and community-based partners

The CATF has been working on a special project with Indigenous arts training organizations (Indigenous Trainers' Caucus) since 2017-2018 to enhance program responsiveness to the needs of Indigenous arts training organizations and to inform any program re-design efforts. This multi-year initiative is examining and determining the measures best suited to increase application and retention rates, to ultimately increase the number of successful graduates, from Indigenous arts training programs across Canada. This project is ongoing in 2022-2023, and a pilot land-based residency training program is planned for the 3rd and 4th quarters as a potential best practice model for Indigenous arts training. The findings of this project will be integrated into the delivery of the CATF going forward, to facilitate access to the program and to ensure that culturally appropriate arts training is available to Indigenous students.

The CATF will also conduct targeted outreach to Indigenous communities in the latter half of 2022-2023, in partnership with various Indigenous arts practitioners and organizations to facilitate funding requests from new applicants for upcoming program intakes.

Update on 2022-23 Engagement

Funding for the special project with the Indigenous Arts Knowledge Exchange (formerly named the Indigenous Trainers' Caucus) was approved for fiscal years 2022-2023 to 2024-2025 ($430,000 total) to continue the pilot land-based residency training program and establish a non-profit arts organization dedicated to the ongoing collaborative development of methodologies, systems, and tools to support Indigenous arts learning.
The targeted outreach initiative was deferred to 2023-2024 and subsequent fiscal years to ensure an Indigenous employee with engagement experience was in place and to allow for a coordinated approach with the PCH Reconciliation, Treaties and Engagement unit's Engagement and Consultation team.

Calls for Justice/Calls for Miskotahâ

This initiative makes funds available to Indigenous Peoples in order to support their efforts to revitalize and restore Indigenous cultures and languages.

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Working Together to Monitor Progress

As Indigenous organizations, researchers, and service providers have noted, a robust data infrastructure is required to measure progress toward addressing violence against Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people. High quality data is essential to:

Accurately track the number of missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people;
Monitor the effectiveness of federal legislation, policy, and programs;
Identify the distinctions-based needs of Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people;
Allow researchers to better understand issues related to and causes of MMIWG2S+; and
Allow service delivery organizations to evaluate the effectiveness of their programs.

In order to achieve these objectives, investments and improvements must be made to the existing MMIWG2S+ data infrastructure, while also respecting the right of Indigenous Peoples to retain control over their data. This section discusses the work undertaken over the past year to improve the MMIWG2S+ data infrastructure and the federal government's ability to monitor its initiatives.

Outcomes for Accountability

The 2021-22 Federal Pathway Annual Progress Report established some outcomes that would be used in the future to measure the federal government's progress toward addressing violence against Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people. These outcomes were organized on a thematic basis using the five themes present in this report, and represent the federal government's long-term objectives to achieve the ultimate outcome of safety for Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people.

As work continues, data will become available to formally evaluate the federal government's progress. Future iterations of this report will include performance indicators and data to evaluate work toward these high-level outcomes:

Overall Outcome
- Violence against Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people is eliminated.
Culture Outcomes
- Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people demonstrate connection to their language and culture.
- People living in Canada have an increased understanding and appreciation of Indigenous cultures.
Health and Wellness Outcomes
- Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people's healthcare experiences are improved.
- Health and wellbeing outcomes for Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people are improved.
Human Safety and Security Outcomes
- Socioeconomic factors contributing to violence against Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people are addressed.
- The safety of communities in which Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people live is improved.
Justice Outcomes
- Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people have increased access to fairer, more inclusive justice, including access to information, resources and support services, that respects their rights.
- Systemic racism against Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people in legislation, policy and within the justice system is eliminated.
Organizational Capacity and Coordination Outcomes
- The capacity of Indigenous and federal organizations to address Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people's needs is improved.
- Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people are engaged in the decisions that most affect them.

Current Challenges to Monitoring Progress

Accurate data remains essential to effectively monitor the work of all governments to address violence against Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people. Specifically, there is a need for high-quality, disaggregated, and distinctions-based quantitative and qualitative data on all issues related to MMIWG2S+. The federal government is funding several initiatives through the Federal Pathway that will result in higher quality data. However, until this work is completed there are some notable issues with the MMIWG2S+ data infrastructure. These issues were discussed at length in the National Action Plan Data Strategy.

The data landscape related to MMIWG2S+ is vast. As noted in the National Inquiry's Final Report, the issue of violence against Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people encompasses so many data points that we must first understand what all of the related data are, and where they are located through different jurisdictions, including those outside of the Government of Canada.
The quality of data related to the issue of MMIWG2S+ can be poor. There is a lack of baseline data available. Data on MMIWG2S+, as well as data related to Indigenous people more generally, cannot always be broken down to Indigenous identity groups, regions, or demographics (e.g. 2SLGBTQI+ people). Also, some data are not always collected and reported consistently.
The relevance of the data to Indigenous worldviews is largely disconnected. As Indigenous partners have noted, any measurement of progress needs to stem from Indigenous understandings of safety and progress and developed with Indigenous partners. Change must be made, felt, and measured, on the ground.
Improvements in data quality take time. It may take a long time to see improvements in data that reflect results "on the ground." While these improvements are made, Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people continue to be targeted.

MMIWG2S+ Horizontal Initiative

Horizontal initiatives are formal monitoring and reporting processes that seek to measure progress toward a common objective using performance indicators and targets. The MMIWG2S+ HI established an ultimate outcome of reducing violence against Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people and created performance indicators and targets at the ultimate level, the thematic level, and the initiative level. The HI is designed in such a way that there is a logical flow from the ground-level initiatives to the ultimate outcome of reducing violence against Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people. Each initiative is aligned with one or more performance indicators that feed into the thematic outcomes, and each of the five themes has performance indicators that feed into the ultimate outcome.

These performance indicators allow the federal government to monitor the effectiveness of its initiatives and determine whether violence against Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people is ultimately being reduced. Once per year, initiatives in the HI will report against their performance indicators and a picture will begin to form of the effectiveness of these initiatives. This information will be made public through Crown Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada's annual departmental plans and departmental results. Further, some of these performance indicators may be shared in next year's Federal Pathway Annual Progress Report.

Federal Pathway Data and Monitoring Initiatives

The tables below provide detailed information on Federal Pathway data and monitoring initiatives, including information on their work in 2022-23 and their plans for 2023-24.

Initiative: Oversight of the work to address Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people

Lead Department(s): CIRNAC
Funding: $2.2 Million over five years
Description: Co-develop an oversight mechanism with partners and PTs
Calls for Justice: 1.10
Calls for Miskotahâ: n/a

Planned Milestones 2022-23

Planned for 2022-23

CIRNAC to hold pre-engagement discussions with indigenous partners on oversight of the work to address Missing and Murdered Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people. CIRNAC will also contract with an Indigenous organization to carry out further engagements with Indigenous partners.

Update on 2022-23

On January 10, 2023, Minister Marc Miller announced that an Indigenous organization had been chosen to develop recommendations for an oversight mechanism to enhance accountability and progress in ending violence against Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people. Their report was presented in April 2023.

Coming up in 2023-24

Budget 2023 proposed $2.2 million over five years, starting in 2023-24, to establish an oversight mechanism to monitor and report on the progress of implementation. CIRNAC will review the report of the Indigenous firm and the recommendations on an oversight mechanism that came out of it and will continue to engage and discuss with partners on the next steps.

Planned Engagement for 2022-23

Update on 2022-23 Engagement

The MMIWG Secretariat met with 13 Indigenous organizations during the pre-engagement phase and completed a What Was Said Report. This report was shared with the Indigenous organization contracted to engage with Indigenous partners and was used to support more in depth discussions with partners. The Indigenous organization held virtual meetings with partners across the country, including national, regional and bilateral sessions.

Calls for Justice/Calls for Miskotahâ

CFJ 1.10 We call upon the federal government to create an independent mechanism to report on the implementation of the National Inquiry's Calls for Justice to Parliament, annually.

Initiative: Justice Data Modernization Initiative

Lead Department(s): Justice Canada and Statistics Canada
Funding: Funding: Portion of the $0.7M Justice Data Modernization funding for Statistics Canada, Disaggregated Data Action Plan ($60K)
Description: The Justice Data Modernization Initiative will improve the collection and use of disaggregated criminal justice data, in view of developing policy responses to the overrepresentation of Indigenous and racialized people in the criminal justice system, as accused/offenders or victims/survivors.
Calls for Justice: 15.14, 5.17, 5.24, 17.2
Calls for Miskotahâ: 4.1

Planned Milestones 2022-23

Planned for 2022-23

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

Justice Canada

Launch Request for Standing Offer for quantitative research and data sciences services by end of Q4
Establish letters of agreement / memoranda of understanding with federal partners, by Q1 and on-going
Establish contract(s) with organizations outside of the federal government, by end of Q4

Statistics Canada

Over-Representation Indicators

In collaboration with the Statistics Canada's Centre for Indigenous Statistics and Partnerships (CISP) and their partners, Statistics Canada is undertaking a number of projects to respond to demands for information on the over-representation of Indigenous people in the criminal justice system:

Draft an analytical article examining the overrepresentation of Indigenous people in corrections.
Upon release of the final Census data end of November, begin linkage of Integrated Criminal Courts Survey data to Census to enable examination of overrepresentation of Indigenous and racialized populations in criminal courts will begin in preparation for release of the analytical report in 2023/2024.
Create a draft framework of indicators required to measure overrepresentation in the criminal justice system.

Criminal Justice Analysis and Modeling: Simulation

In collaboration with JUS, Statistics Canada is building a simulation model of criminal justice system (CJS) trajectories to project the impacts of hypothetical justice and social sector interventions on CJS involvement and overrepresentation. The goal of the Criminal Justice Analysis and Modeling (CJAM) project is to identify which program, policy or legislative changes could be effective in reducing (re-)contact with the CJS and in reducing the overrepresentation of Indigenous and racialized people within the system.

Q1&Q2: Prepare CJS pathways files and conditions; synthesize the virtual population for input into the pilot simulation.
Q1&Q2: Finalize analytical plan based on feedback from JUS and working group.
Q3: JUS will commission a comprehensive review of the literature to inform inputs to the model.
Q3: Develop and test annotated simulation code.
Q4: Estimate matrices and develop code for the modeling, for future application to the "first contact" cohort.
Q4: Begin using the results from the modeling for parameterization and testing of pilot simulation modules.
Q4: Begin development of approach for constructing a synthetic population to use in the simulation studies for examining various what-if scenarios.

Pan-Canadian Re-contact Project

In partnership with Public Safety Canada and others, Statistics Canada is developing an ongoing pan-Canadian program of repeated contact – or "re-contact" – with the criminal justice system to measure and address re-contact.

Q1: Begin evaluation of corrections and criminal court records and build analytical files. Integrate these with other Statistics Canada data such as tax, hospitalization, death, education, immigration, and Census data.
Q1: Begin linkage of policing records and assessment of linkages.
Q3: Complete linkage of policing records.
Update linkages of corrections and criminal court surveys with the 2020-21 data and finalize indictors to be used in a 2023-24 Juristat
Q3: Assess feasibility of developing an escalation metric for repeated contacts with the criminal justice system.
Q4: Test and evaluate approaches for integrating data across policing, courts, and corrections.
Q4: In collaboration with Public Safety Canada and Statistics Canada's Centre for Indigenous Statistics and Partnerships (CISP) and partners, draft outline for 2023-24 Juristat examining new convictions in a correctional cohort.
Q4: In partnership with Public Safety Canada, prepare re-contact data files and documentation for release in Statistics Canada's Research Data Centres in 2023-24.

Update on 2022-23

Activities above have been accomplished.

In 2022-23, the departments undertook the following actions:

Justice Canada

Finalized the Request for Standing Offer for quantitative research and data sciences services in Q4.
Established several letters of agreement and memorandum of understanding with Federal partners.

Coming up in 2023-24

Statistics Canada

Development and standardization of Over-Representation Indicators

Release of analytical article examining the over-representation of Indigenous persons in adult provincial custody is scheduled for release late spring/early summer 2023.
Further refinement of the draft framework of indicators required to measure overrepresentation in the criminal justice system.

Criminal Justice Analysis and Modeling: Simulation

Complete Model analysis of pathways files.
Begin parameterization of models the appropriate software.
Finalize the construction of "first contact" cohort

Pan-Canadian Re-contact Project

Analyze and draft Juristat report examining new convictions in 2015-16 cohort of adult sentenced to provincial custody or community supervision.
Release linked CCSS-ICCS analytical files and associated documentation in Federal Research Data Centres.

Justice Canada

Put in place Standing Offer Agreements for quantitative research and data sciences services by end of Q2
Continue to build partnerships and establish projects with federal government partners and others external to government, by Q1 and ongoing.
Share results of research conducted under the JDMI as they become available.
Renew and expand Family Information Liaison Unit and Community-based services and increased access Indigenous-Led Victim Services:
$95.8M over five years, starting in 2023-24, and $20.4M ongoing to help Indigenous families access information about their missing and murdered loved ones, and to enhance victim services to support their healing journeys.This funding would renew existing programming and expand it to include support for families of 2SLGBTQI+ Indigenous victims who are men.

Planned Engagement for 2022-23

Justice Canada

Present to and seek feedback from the Network for Sharing Indigenous Information and Research (NSIIR) on the Justice Data Modernization Initiative 2022-23 to 2024-25 Research Plan.
Leverage Indigenous Justice Strategy engagements to seek input from Indigenous organizations and other stakeholders on priority areas for research and interest/capacity in conducting research.

Statistics Canada

Over-Representation Indicators

Leverage Indigenous Justice Strategy engagements to seek input from Indigenous organizations and other stakeholders on the development of the national framework of indicators of overrepresentation.
With Statistics Canada's Centre for Indigenous Statistics and Partnerships, engage with academics, National Indigenous Organizations and other experts to develop the outline, analysis and review the content for planned products, with initial engagements on outlines beginning in the fall.

Criminal Justice Analysis and Modeling: Simulation

JUS to begin outreach activities with provincial partners on the intent to re-use the pathways files. JUS will seek information on primary research and advice on relevant Indigenous and racialized organizations that may have an interest in this project. Statistics Canada's CCJCSS will engage with Canada's Centre for Indigenous Statistics and Partnerships and leverage existing mechanisms within the Department.

Pan-Canadian Re-contact Project

Engage with FPT justice partners and academics to finalize indicator of new convictions following corrections, as well as identify research and policy priorities related to re-contact.

Update on 2022-23 Engagement

Over-Representation Indicators

Analytical Juristat article examining the over-representation of Indigenous persons in adult provincial custody, 2019/2020 and 2020/2021 was drafted and is scheduled to be released late Spring 2023/early Summer 2023. LOC and CORIS members and StatCan SMEs provided feedback on the draft report during the Work-in-Progress review. In fall of 2021, Indigenous organizations and groups, among other partners and stakeholders, were provided an opportunity to comment on newly proposed corrections indicators and the issue of over-representation in corrections through a Corrections Engagement.
Framework on indicators of overrepresentation: Inclusion of questions for feedback in the Indigenous Justice Strategy and presentations/engagement with FPT tables.

Criminal Justice Analysis and Modeling: Simulation

JUS began outreach activities with provincial partners on the intent to re-use provincial level re-contact pathways files (SK and ON) to estimate parameters for the simulation. Statistics Canada's CCJCSS engaged with Canada's Centre for Indigenous Statistics and Partnerships and leveraged existing mechanisms within the Department, by ensuring CISP representation in the project's working group and by submitting the project to CISP for feedback.

Pan-Canadian Re-contact Project

Engaged with FPT justice partners to identify research and policy priorities related to re-contact. Also engaged with FPT justice partners to finalize a new indicator of convictions following correctional involvement.

Justice Canada

Presented the JDMI Research Plan to the Network for Sharing Indigenous Information and Research (NSIIR) in June 2022.
Continued to develop Standing Offer arrangements for research and data science services with input from a variety of potential companies and groups, including Indigenous organizations and scholars.
Continued to engage with a variety of stakeholders including Indigenous organizations to build relationships and to gain input on priority areas for research and data development.

Coming up in 2023-24

Statistics Canada:

Criminal Justice Analysis and Modeling: Simulation

Continue to engage with provincial partners, Canada's Centre for Indigenous Statistics, subject matter experts in Statistics Canada and other departments, and stakeholders, through the CJAM working group, presentations, and other mechanisms.

Pan-Canadian Re-contact Project

Engage with experts in the field of recidivism to validate the new measure of convictions following corrections developed in collaboration with FPT justice partners. Continue to engage with FPT justice partners and Statistics Canada's Centre for Indigenous Statistics and Partnerships on the development of the upcoming Juristat examining new convictions in a correctional cohort.

Calls for Justice/Calls for Miskotahâ

The purpose of the JDMI is to improve the collection and use of disaggregated data in view of informing policy responses to the overrepresentation of Indigenous and racialized people in the criminal justice system.

These activities will help inform actions to address a number of CFJs.

In particular 5.14 and 5.17 to support the evaluation of mandatory minimums and impacts of Gladue principles as well as 5.24, 17.2 and Call to Miskotaha 41 which call for improving the disaggregated data collection and the availability of distinctions based data.

Initiative: National strategy to ensure consistency in practices for reporting missing Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people

Lead Department(s): Statistics Canada and Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada
Funding: 1.4M/5 years
Description: Statistics Canada is to engage with indigenous partners and Canadian Association of Chiefs of Police (CACP) to ensure police have consistent reporting mechanisms of information on missing Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people and other missing persons. National standards will ensure that all cases of missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people are thoroughly reported and investigated.
Calls for Justice: 9.5v
Calls for Miskotahâ: N/A

Planned Milestones 2022-23

Planned for 2022-23

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.

Q1: Engage with key stakeholders regarding the project; begin drafting the engagement documents.
Q2: Develop engagement plan
Q4: Present the proposed Missing Persons Project to Statistics Canada Senior Management, the Centre of Indigenous Statistics and Partnerships, Communications, and Diversity and Sociocultural Statistics.

Update on 2022-23

Literature review complete.
Engagements with key partners to inform the project.
Engagement plans and documents drafted.

Coming up in 2023-24

Present the proposed project plan to the CACP Policing with Indigenous Peoples Committee and Police Information and Statistics Committee.
Present to the CACP Board of Directors and submit Resolution for their consideration.
Finalize engagement strategy, engagement questionnaires and other tools to support engagement, and launch engagements.
Launch engagements
Continue engagements
Draft report on "what we heard" and recommendations.

Planned Engagement for 2022-23

Written and virtual engagements to begin in Winter 2023 with police services, civil society organizations, other groups.
Seek input from Government stakeholders, Indigenous organizations, racialized and other community organizations, academics, polices services

Update on 2022-23 Engagement

Engagements with key stakeholders to draft the engagement documents.

Coming up in 2023-24

Seek input from Government stakeholders, Indigenous organizations, racialized and other community organizations, academics, polices services.

Calls for Justice/Calls for Miskotahâ

This initiative responds to Call for Justice 9.5.v to ensure police have consistent reporting mechanisms of information on missing Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people and other missing persons. National standards will ensure that all cases of missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people are thoroughly reported and investigated

Initiative: Disaggregated data and new data collection: Advance the collection of data on Indigenous identity of victims and accused through national police-reported crime statistics–data development

Lead Department(s): Statistics Canad
Description: This program is in response to growing demands for information contributing to a better understanding of the experiences of First Nations people, Inuit and Métis in terms of their interaction with the police as accused and victims of crime. The need for quality data about the experience of Indigenous Peoples and racialized communities with Canada's criminal justice system is paramount to understanding the extent to which people from these communities are represented in Canada's criminal justice system, beginning with their interactions with the police.
Funding: Disaggregated Data Action Plan ($500K)
Calls for Justice: 5.24 and 17.2
Calls for Miskotahâ: N/A

Planned Milestones 2022-23

Planned for 2022-23

Q1: Complete draft of "what we heard" report; brief key stakeholders.
Q2: Brief key stakeholders; prepare for release; brief CACP Board at their August meeting.
Q2: Publish report: Report and Draft Recommendations: Police-Reported Indigenous and Racialized Identity Statistics via the Uniform Crime Reporting Survey (statcan.gc.ca)
Q3 & Q4: Engagements with police, Indigenous organizations and others to determine how to operationalize/implement data collection.
Q3 & Q4: Begin survey system analysis
Q4: Continue survey system analysis

Update on 2022-23

Briefed key partners on interim recommendations contained in the Report and Draft Recommendations: Police-Reported Indigenous and Racialized Identity Statistics via the Uniform Crime Reporting Survey (statcan.gc.ca)
Established approach to operationalizing recommendations.

Coming up in 2023-24

Launch of collaborative committee to guide operationalizing the data collection, which would include: guidelines on how to operationalize data collection, including guidelines for responsible data analysis.
Engagements with police, Indigenous organizations and others to inform operationalization of data collection.
Survey system updates.

Planned Engagement for 2022-23

Q3/Q4: Engagements with police, Indigenous organizations and others to determine how to operationalize/implement data collection.

Update on 2022-23 Engagement

Engagements in 2022/2023 focused on updating partners on the interim recommendations contained in the Report and Draft Recommendations: Police-Reported Indigenous and Racialized Identity Statistics via the Uniform Crime Reporting Survey (statcan.gc.ca)
Worked with the Canadian Association of Chiefs of Police on establishing a committee to support operationalization of collection, reporting and analysis.
As such, engagements with police, Indigenous organizations and others to determine how to operationalize/implement data collection are delayed to 2023/2024.

Calls for Justice/Calls for Miskotahâ

The purpose of this initiative is to respond to a demand for data on the Indigenous identity of accused and victims in police-reported criminal incidents to inform questions of over-representation, inequity and systemic bias in policing. As such the initiative is linked to Call for Justice 17.2 and Call for Miskotaha 41.

Initiative: Data disaggregation and new data collection: Statistics on gender-based violence and feelings of safety

Lead Department(s): Statistics Canada and Women and Gender Equality
Funding: $502K
Description: This work aims to advance the collection of data on gender-based violence (GBV) and feelings of safety, allowing researchers, policymakers, service providers and others to respond appropriately tomissing and murdered Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people and related issues. Through this initiative, critical data are being made available that will increase awareness and understanding of the prevalence and patterns of GBV in Indigenous communities, and—through the second cycle of the SSPPS—how those are changing over time. Data disaggregation and intersectional analyses will provide important information on the nature of GBV experienced, who is experiencing it, who is perpetrating it and the context within which it happens. This information is critical to informing efforts to prevent and address GBV, and to supporting survivors and their families.
Calls for Justice: 17.2
Calls for Miskotahâ: N/A

Planned Milestones 2022-23

Planned for 2022-23

Consultations on cycle 2 of the Survey of Safety in Public and Private Spaces (SSPPS) are planned to begin fall 2022-23.

Q1: Plan engagement activities
Q1: Begin Stakeholder engagement to inform stakeholders of the change to a single survey instrument and solicit input into the revised SSPPS questionnaire content.
Q2: Continue stakeholder engagement to inform stakeholders of the change to a single survey instrument and solicit input into the revised SSPPS questionnaire content.
Q3: Complete stakeholder engagement to inform stakeholders of the change to a single survey instrument and solicit input into the revised SSPPS questionnaire content.
Q3: Draft the questionnaire
Q4: Feasibility testing of draft questionnaire
Q4: Delivery of proposed content for the questionnaire

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.

Update on 2022-23

Several revisions were made to the questionnaire for cycle 2 of the Survey of Safety in Public and Private Spaces (SSPPS) that are expected to have a positive impact on response rates and increase the availability of both disaggregated data and intersectional analyses about experiences of GBV. These changes were made based on results of multi-sector stakeholder engagement—including with Indigenous groups—and policy- and data-informed analysis. It was also decided that SSPPS cycle 2 will oversample Indigenous respondents, which, coupled with an increase in the overall sample size of the survey, is expected to further enhance the quality of estimates for Indigenous peoples on a distinctions basis, as well as various other disaggregations within Indigenous groups. Statistics Canada continued to work closely with its Northern Survey Governance Committee to ensure good practices are being followed with respect to the SSPPS, in order to lower the response burden in Northern communities while continuing to collect much-needed data.

Finally, three WAGE-funded Indigenous-focused GBV research projects were completed in 2022-23, with final reports entitled:

Ceremony and Transitions: Integrating Wise Practices of Gender Based Violence Prevention in Urban Indigenous Service Delivery, by the Ontario Federation of Indigenous Friendship Centres
Meeting Survivors' Needs: Gender-Based Violence against Inuit Women and the Criminal Justice System Response, by Pauktuutit Inuit Women of Canada
Reclaiming Culture and Place: A Study of Healing from Gender-Based Violence Along the Highway of Tears, by Quintessential Research Group

Coming up in 2023-24

In 2023-24, work toward cycle 2 of the Survey of Safety in Public and Private Spaces (SSPPS) will focus on survey application development and further user testing. The Northern Survey Governance Committee will be engaged as needed to inform collection activities.

Planned Engagement for 2022-23

In fall 2022, Statistics Canada, in collaboration with WAGE, is engaging a number of Indigenous organizations and researchers as part of consultations on the next cycle of the Survey of Safety in Public and Private Spaces (SSPPS).

With funding from the federal Gender-based Violence Strategy, the SSPPS was conducted in 2018 and is the first comprehensive national survey on gender-based violence. The SSPPS resulted in data on experiences of GBV among Indigenous Peoples, on a distinctions basis, with disaggregated data and intersectional analyses also available.

In preparation for the next cycle of the SSPPS to be conducted in 2024-25, a stakeholder engagement process is being carried out involving virtual discussion sessions and written submissions. Approximately 40 national, provincial, territorial and community-based Indigenous organizations, and approximately 15 researchers whose research concerns GBV among Indigenous populations, have been invited to participate. Based on findings from the engagement, the SSPPS questionnaire will be revised.

It is expected that in the next cycle of the SSPPS, the overall sample size will be increased and over-sampling of Indigenous communities will be conducted. This will facilitate strengthened disaggregated data and intersectional analyses of experiences of GBV among Indigenous populations.

Update on 2022-23 Engagement

In fall 2022, Statistics Canada, with collaboration from Women and Gender Equality Canada, conducted a stakeholder engagement process to gather input for the revised SSPPS questionnaire. Among the approximately 500 stakeholders from government, academia and the community sector, approximately 40 national, provincial, territorial and community-based Indigenous organizations, and approximately 15 researchers whose research concerns GBV among Indigenous populations, were invited to participate. Although confidentiality reasons prohibit disclosure of which groups and individuals participated, a total of 104 stakeholders participated through group discussions or written submissions. Their feedback was integral to revisions that were made to the questionnaire.

Calls for Justice/Calls for Miskotahâ

This initiative is linked to Call for Justice 17.4. Through this initiative, critical data are being made available that will increase awareness and understanding of the prevalence and patterns of GBV in Métis as well as First Nations and Inuit communities, and—through the second cycle of the Survey of Safety in Public and Private Spaces (SSPPS)—how those are changing over time. Data disaggregation and intersectional analyses will provide important information on the nature of GBV experienced, who is experiencing it, who is perpetrating it and the context within which it happens. This information is critical to informing efforts to prevent and address GBV, and to supporting survivors and their families.

Initiative: Indigenous Led Data Research Projects Program/ National Indigenous Data Advisory Group on MMIWG2S+

Lead department(s): Crown Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada – MMIWG Secretariat
Funding: 8.5M over 6 years
Description: The Indigenous-Led Data Research Projects Program funds innovative Indigenous-led approaches to improving data methodologies specific to missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people, including initiatives that: work to develop qualitative distinctions or identity-based indicators, address existing methodological gaps for groups who are underserviced or underrepresented in data, work to define safety through Indigenous ways of understanding. All of these will ultimately work to improve existing data and expand data related to missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people.

The National Indigenous Data Advisory Group on MMIWG2S+ will assist with the further development of indicators, the improvement of reliable baseline data, and advise on identified data gaps regarding missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people.

The National Indigenous Data Advisory Body on MMIWG2S+ was inspired by the direction provided in the National Action Plan's Data Strategy. To develop the model, the Government of Canada engaged with various Indigenous partners, families and survivors and data specialists, federal, provincial and territorial representatives, and Government of Canada departments.

Calls for Justice: 5.24, 16.44, 17.2, 18.4
Calls for Miskotahâ: N/A

Planned Milestones 2022-23

Planned for 2022-23

Q1: Funding from 2021-22 for multiyear projects flows. New CfP for 2022-23. / Planning for NIDAG membership continues, including draft ToR. Pending confirmation of approach, preliminary invitations for inaugural memberships.
Q2: Intake for 2022-23 closes. Evaluation of proposals for ILDRPP. Drafting of amendments for successful new recipients. / NIDAG meeting 1.
Q3: Funding continues to flow for ILDRPP; planning for 2023-24. / NIDAG planning for meeting 2, including collaborative agenda-setting.
Q4: Planning for CfP 2023-24 continues / NIDAG meeting 2.

Update on 2022-23

In 2021-22, the MMIWG Secretariat continued to fund 2021-22 multiyear projects. It also held a Call for Proposals, and subsequently provided funding for 17 projects.
Planning for the NIDAG continued.

Coming up in 2023-24

Q1: In 2023-24, funding from 2021-22 and 2022-23 for multiyear projects will flow. A new Call for Proposals will launch for 2023-24. / Planning for the membership of the NIDAG will continue.
Q2: Evaluation of proposals for ILDRPP. Drafting of amendments for successful new recipients. / First NIDAG meeting to take place.
Q3: Funding continues to flow for ILDRPP. / Planning for second NIDAG meeting, including collaborative agenda-setting.
Q4: Planning for 2024-25 Call for Proposals. / Second NIDAG meeting to take place.

Planned Engagement for 2022-23

This information will be confirmed when the membership of the National Indigenous Data Advisory Group is established.

Calls for Justice/Calls for Miskotahâ

This initiative responds to Calls for Justice 5.24, 16.44, 17.2, 18.3, 18.4, as it funds Indigenous-led data projects to improve the data landscape on Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people by developing quantitative distinctions-based indicators, addressing methodological gaps, or working to define safety through Indigenous ways of understanding.

Initiative: The Canadian Child Welfare Information System (CCWIS)

Lead Department: Public Health Agency of Canada
Dedicated funding for child maltreatment surveillance, including CCWIS, of $420,000 was received through FES
Calls for Justice: Supporting 12.4, 12.6, 12.8, 16.6
Calls for Miskotahâ: 28, 29, 31
Description: CCWIS, a national public health information system, consolidates existing administrative data from participating child welfare service providers.

Planned Milestones 2022-23

Update on 2022-23

Significant progress was made on the technical development of CCWIS, particularly the achievement made on the harmonization of disparate data related to placement of children in care.
Engagement efforts resulted in the development of several formal agreements and pilot projects, including the following:
The Nunatsiavut Government signed an MOA with PHAC to co-develop a governance model and collaborate in data sharing, analysis, and reporting.
The Association of Native Child and Family Services Agencies in Ontario has signed an agreement to provide information to facilitate planning for PHAC's outreach to First Nations governments and child welfare agencies.
Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami (ITK) has determined how CCWIS can meet some Inuit data needs, and the formal partnership is ongoing.
National Indigenous Organizations are kept up to date about CCWIS developments, via meetings of our longstanding Working Group of external and other government department experts as well as through collaboration with Indigenous Services Canada.

Coming up in 2023-24

Key deliverables related to MMIWG, include the release of the first CCWIS Indicator Report on placement of children in out of home care.
Co-develop reports with Nunatsiavut Government on the development of the CCWIS governance process and initial placement data.
Continue to make formal offers of partnership on CCWIS with the Métis National Council, Assembly of First Nations, Manitoba Métis Federation and other governments, such as those that run their own child welfare systems (e.g., Cowessess First Nation).

Planned Engagement for 2022-23

Update on 2022-23 Engagement

In addition to the formal partnerships with Indigenous (First Nations and Inuit) and non-Indigenous organizations that were created (see preceding column), progress was made towards partnerships with additional organizations:

Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated (NTI)
Inuvialuit Regional Corporation (IRC)
Métis National Council (MNC)
Métis Nation – Saskatchewan
Métis Nation Alberta
Métis Nation British Columbia
Métis Nation Ontario
First Nations Information Governance Centre
Assembly of First Nations
Statistics Canada's Centre for Indigenous Statistics and Partnerships (CISP)

Calls for Justice/Calls for Miskotahâ

Supporting MMIWG CFJ: 12.4, 12.6, 12.8, 16.6

CCWIS, a national public health information system, consolidates existing administrative data from participating child welfare service providers. Initial reporting in Fiscal Year 2023-2024, will focus on placements of children in out of home care. Pending agreements with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis, and pending sufficient data quality, CCWIS reporting about foster care placements will be distinctions based. Reporting will become more and more granular over time as partners share additional data for analysis. In time, pending sufficient data quality, later phases of CCWIS reporting will involve services provided to children and families, reasons for apprehension of children placed in out of home care, ages of children who are placed, types of placements, and more.

CCWIS supports CFJ 12.4 because reasons for apprehension will be included in later CCWIS reporting.
CCWIS supports CFJ 12.6 because information about types of placements (e.g., kinship with a family member) will be included in later CCWIS reporting.
CCWIS supports CFJ 12.8 because information about ages of placed children (e.g., neonates placed at birth) will be included in later CCWIS reporting.
Note that CCWIS is relevant to CFJ 16.6 because Inuit in Land Claims Organizations do not have adequate information about how many Inuit children are placed in care of child welfare services outside their Land Claims, and therefore do not know if they can access the benefits to which they are entitled. In the course of CCWIS development formal relationships are being put into place with organizations that serve Inuit in urban areas, outside their Land Claims.

Supporting MMIWG CFM: 28, 29, 31

CCWIS supports CFM 28 because data quality work related to CCWIS development and expansion will help provincial and delegated child welfare agencies accurately collect information that can be used to identify Métis children and families. The data will then be available for distinctions-based analyses, as directed by the Métis governments that have rights to the data.
CCWIS supports CFM 29 because later CCWIS annual reporting will, in time and pending adequate data quality, include the reason for child welfare involvement (including monitoring of neglect investigations of Métis children).
CCWIS supports CFM 31 because reasons for apprehension will be included in later CCWIS reporting.

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The Path Forward: Budget 2023

In keeping with the expressed needs and priorities of Indigenous partners, organizations, families and survivors, measurable and sustained progress to meaningfully increase in the immediate and ongoing safety of Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ peoples as outlined in the National Action Plan and Federal Pathway must continue to evolve. The progress made in 2022-23 to improve the immediate and ongoing safety of Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people will continue in 2023-24 through several key proposed investments in Budget 2023.

Budget 2023 Proposed Investments to Support the Immediate Action to Support Safety, Including the Wellbeing of Families and Survivors

$20 million over four years, starting in 2022-23, to support Indigenous-led projects for safer communities through the Pathways to Safe Indigenous Communities Initiative, managed by Indigenous Services Canada
$4 billion, over seven years, starting in 2024-25, to the Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation to implement a co-developed Urban, Rural, and Northern Indigenous Housing Strategy
$10 million in 2023-24 to top up the Local Food Infrastructure Fund to strengthen food security in Northern, rural, and Indigenous communities across Canada, managed by Northern Affairs Canada
$95.8 million over five years, starting in 2023-24, and $20.4 million ongoing to the Department of Justice to expand the Family Liaison Information Units that help Indigenous families access information about their missing and murdered loved ones, and to enhance victim services to support their healing journeys
$2 billion over ten years to Indigenous Services Canada to support the distinctions-based Indigenous Health Equity Fund
$158.4 million over three years, starting in 2023-24, to the Public Health Agency of Canada to support the implementation and operation of a suicide prevention line

Budget 2023 Proposed Investments to Further Achieve Transformational Institutional and Systemic Change and Promote the Rights of Indigenous Peoples

$810.6 million over five years, beginning in 2023-24, to support medical travel and to maintain medically necessary services through the Noninsured Health Benefits Program, including mental health services, dental and vision care, and medications. $16.2 million over three years, beginning in 2023-24, for interventions to reduce rates of tuberculosis in Inuit communities, led by Indigenous Services Canada
$171 million in 2022-23 to Indigenous Services Canada to ensure First Nations children continue to receive the support they need through Jordan's Principle.
million over three years, starting in 2023-24, to Women and Gender Equality to support the Women's Program to provide funding to organizations in Canada that serve women, with a particular focus on Indigenous women, women with disabilities, members of the 2SLGBTQI+ communities, and newcomer, Black, racialized, and migrant women
$25.4 million over five years, starting in 2023-24, and $0.6 million ongoing, to the Department of Canadian Heritage to continue to support Canada's Anti-Racism Strategy and fight all forms of racism, including but not limited to anti-Indigenous racism, anti-Black racism, anti-Asian racism, antisemitism, Islamophobia.
$2.6 million over three years to continue to support the wellbeing of families and survivors by supporting the National Family and Survivors Circle in keeping families and survivors at the centre of the implementation of the National Action Plan and the Federal Pathway, managed by Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada

Budget 2023 Proposed Investments to Further Increase Accountability and Transparency to Build Better Relationships with Indigenous Partners, Families, and Survivors

$2.2 million over five years, starting in 2023-24, to Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada to continue to establish an oversight mechanism to monitor and report on the progress of implementation
$1.6 million over two years, starting in 202324, to Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada to support the Ministerial Special Representative appointed to provide advice and recommendations on the creation of an Indigenous and Human Rights Ombudsperson
$2.5 million over five years, starting in 2023-24, to Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada to continue to facilitate and coordinate work on advancing the National Action Plan by establishing a standing Federal-Territorial-Indigenous table on MMIWG2S+ that will provide a specific forum to take action on areas of shared roles and responsibilities, including prioritizing discussion on how to launch a "Red Dress Alert" to notify the public when an Indigenous woman or two-spirit person goes missing
Budget 2023 proposes to provide $160 million over three years, starting in 2023-24, for the Women's Program to provide funding to organizations in Canada that serve women. The government is committed to maintaining historic funding levels for Canadian women's organizations and equity-deserving groups, with a particular focus on Indigenous women, women with disabilities, members of the 2SLGBTQI+ communities, and newcomer, Black, racialized, and migrant women (WAGE)

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Conclusion

Over the past fiscal year, the federal government has made considerable progress in several areas of the Federal Pathway and has continued its work toward ending violence against Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people, advancing the National Action Plan goals, and implementing the Calls to Justice. The progress made in 2022-23 can be broadly categorized in three main pathways: 1) immediate action to support safety, including the wellbeing of families and survivors; 2) transformational, institutional, and systemic change that prevents violence and promotes the rights of Indigenous Peoples; and 3) increase accountability and transparency to build better relationships with Indigenous partners, families, and survivors. These pathways contain initiatives related to culture, health and wellness, human safety and security, justice, capacity building, and data infrastructure.

To help ensure the immediate safety of Indigenous women, girls, 2SLGBTQI+ people, new and ongoing investments were made in 2022-23 to key initiatives that prevent and respond to violence through housing, shelters, transportation, infrastructure, and direct support for the wellbeing of families and survivors. Most notably among these are the significant gains that have been made in housing, where thousands of new units have been constructed or repaired in order to address the housing crisis affecting Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people. All of this work will continue in the upcoming year as the federal government acts on its commitment to addressing the immediate needs of Indigenous women, girls, 2SLGBTQI+ people, families, and survivors.

In response to the need for long-term, transformational, systemic, and institutional change, the federal government continued to implement a number of legislative initiatives and developed several national strategies to address racism, gender-based violence, homophobia, and transphobia. These issues form many of the underlying causes of violence against Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people. In particular, the federal government undertook significant engagement on the United Nations Declaration Act. This landmark legislation will provide a framework for reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples, and will support the long-term self-determination of Indigenous governments as well as improving nation-to-nation relationships. In the upcoming year, the federal government will continue to implement the legislations discussed in this report, while also advancing the development of Canada's Anti-Racism Strategy, the Gender-Based Violence Strategy, and the Federal 2SLGBTQI+ Action Plan, with the goal of protecting the rights of Indigenous Peoples and addressing the underlying causes of violence against Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people.

Contributing partners to the National Action Plan, including families and survivors, have repeatedly called on the federal government to increase the transparency and accountability of their work. In response to these calls, the federal government has prioritized work on a National Indigenous and Human Rights Ombudsperson by appointing a Ministerial Special Representative to lead work related to Call for Justice 1.7 (Ombudsperson). Further, the federal government has made progress toward establishing an independent oversight body that will monitor the implementation of the Calls for Justice. This work is of critical importance to the Government of Canada, and it will remain a priority in the upcoming fiscal year.

At the heart of its work, in 2022-23 and beyond, the Government of Canada continued to center the priorities and perspectives of Indigenous women, girls, 2SLGBTQI+ people, families and survivors; the progress we have made could not be possible without their undeterred commitment to advocacy and strength. The federal government will continue to honour the truths shared during the National Inquiry and act on the urgency to redress violence against Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people through immediate and long-term government action. Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people must be able to reclaim and advance their place and power so that they are safe, secure, and live a life free from violence wherever they reside.

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Date modified:: 2023-06-03