Elizabeth discusses how settler-culture MPs can be better allies

Credit: Green Party of Canada – Parti vert du Canada

Elizabeth May, MP for Saanich—Gulf Islands: Mr. Speaker, the hon. member for Winnipeg Centre deserves all our respect and our deep appreciation for her championing and for her work on behalf of indigenous women and girls, yes, but I would also say for marginalized people, class struggle and the recognition that we are in an unfair society at many levels. I wanted to speak my deep gratitude and to ask her this: What can those of us who are settler culture MPs do to be better allies?

Leah Gazan, MP for Winnipeg Centre: Mr. Speaker, I think one of the things I have struggled with is this. I have to say that I am really proud to be part of the NDP, which has respected my voice as an indigenous person, understanding that maybe sometimes my voice might be different. I have a deep respect from our leader and my colleagues, who have supported us and who understand that human rights are human rights, not just when it suits our political and economic interests.

Human rights for indigenous people are up for debate every day in the House, whether it is the ability to make racist statements and doctor Hansard or to vote against the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. I think a good first step we can make as legislators is to uphold the rule of law.