System that rewards status Indians is spectacularly unfair – The Chronicle Journal

Chief Rick O’Bomsawin of Odanak, Que., is urging a House of Commons committee to pass Bill S-3, which would give First Nations women full equality with men. But much more — and much less, financially — must be done before we are all treated equally.

In 1985, tens of thousands of women were given Indian status, but S-3 would grant it to as many as two million more people. Indian status gives people many valuable tax breaks, as well as post-secondary education and supplementary health benefits that most Canadians must pay for.

Metis and non-status Indians also want admission to this exclusive club. These are very large groups.

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