The federal government says the COVID-19 pandemic is highlighting issues of systemic racism facing Indigenous peoples.
The statement came as part of an announcement for the International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples which took place on Sunday.
“COVID-19 has further highlighted inequality and the systemic issues that must be addressed. We recognize that Indigenous peoples in Canada face systemic racism and discrimination,” says Carolyn Bennett, minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations, in a press release.
Bennett also highlighted certain initiatives the federal government is planning. This includes co-developing legislation to implement the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.
The statement was issued alongside Marc Miller, minister of Indigenous Services; Daniel Vandal, minister of Northern Affairs; and Steven Guilbeault, minister of Canadian Heritage
