Shocking Video: Who Is To Blame For The Aboriginal Housing Crisis On The Attawpiskat Reserve?

 

It seems every two or three years the Canadian media focus on a crisis in the Aboriginal communities. The new crisis on the Attawapiskat reserve is shocking seeing Canadians living in such poverty. Canada is one of the richest countries in the world, yet some Native people are living in third world conditions. The question is, who is to blame?  Of course, the Canadian government has a responsibility for the tragedy in Attawapiskat. However, what about the Native chiefs? Some Native chiefs have a lot of power and there are concerns of nepotism and unprofessional practices taking place on reserves. I think the media and Canadian society needs to pay more attention to Native chiefs these people have a role in this crisis too.

The government provides millions of dollars so where is the money going? Why doesn’t the media focus more on the role of these chiefs?   It is unacceptable that people live in homes with no clean water, proper housing,  or a toilet! It is such a disgrace and I hope the United Nations condemns Canada for treating Aboriginal people so terribly.

Another point to consider is, some Canadians believe Aboriginal people receive too many “hand outs” from the Canadian government and this contributes to a cycle of poverty.  Some critics believe Native people need to “integrate” and “assimilate” more into Canadian societies. Would it really make a difference if Aboriginal people live on a reserve or in a major city?  Are the reserves actually a symbol from the past and needs to be abolished? Or are the reserves important to Native Canadians because some people feel safer and have strong emotional ties to their own community.

Is the government to blame for making some First Nations people too dependent on government aid? Some critics have argued the problems on Native reserves in Canada are similar to the problems in third world countries. For instance, some third world nations consistently require aid from the developed world.

I am concerned about the  way the CBC, CTV, and other news outlets are reporting this crisis. Of course, the public has a right to know about the problems on reserves.  Why now? Why did the press decide now is the time to report about Attawapiskat? The racist comments I have read on message boards about Aboriginal people is abhorrent and also disappointing. I think the issue is complex and there is so simple solution.

I believe the legacy of racism cannot be ignored in relation to how Native people are perceived and treated in my country. What do you think? Who is blame  the Canadian government  the chiefs? Let me know your opinion.