Stigma and lateral violence further perpetuate negative social behaviours conclude participants of UNDRIP Act session

ANISHINABEK NATION TERRITORY— The Anishinabek Nation Legal Department continues to host its United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) Act virtual engagement sessions with the fourth in the series held on August 24, 2022.

Anishinabek First Nations leaders and citizens were invited to participate in the Ajijaak (Crane) Dodem (clan) session exploring themes about UNDRIP and discussing priorities including but not limited to Family Relations, Matrimonial Real Property (MRP), Youth and other relevant matters.

An introduction to UNDRIP took place prior to the Ajijaak (Crane) Dodem session, which was led by Crystal Stevens, Anishinabek Nation’s Legal Counsel. Crystal explained that traditionally, Indigenous families included everyone— Nokomis (grandmother), Mishomis (grandfather), parents, children, aunties, uncles, and individuals outside of the household are called extended family. However, the effects of colonization on the roles and responsibilities of each person in the family have changed over time from what the traditional roles and responsibilities were of each person. Traditionally, women were held in very high regard, yet imposed colonial hierarchical norms considered women to be lesser than lower class, ultimately creating negative impacts on Anishinaabe family relational customs.

During the Family Relations discussions, participants expressed concerns about lateral violence not only impacting families, but communities as a whole. In this case, lateral violence is a pattern of intergenerational learned behaviour designed to make oppressed individuals continue to oppress each other. The Seven Grandfather Teachings include Dbaadendiziwin (Humility), Zaagidwin (Love), and Mnaadendmowin (Respect), yet families and communities continue to witness how lateral violence fuels negative social behaviours such as violence, addictions, suicide, gender roles, child-rearing and family dynamics, and often times feel these teachings or gifts are not present.

Youth expressed how lateral violence interplays in stigmas. Individuals who are combating addictions with harm reduction approaches are still viewed as “junkies” or “addicts,” and are shamed. These stigmas are often seen in all capacities (band office, social services, and within health care systems) whether living in First Nations or in nearby municipalities and cities. The youth explained how these stigmas and lateral violence behaviours further perpetuate and attribute to isolation, alienation, suicidal thoughts and ideations, and perceptions of hopelessness for the individuals struggling.

Youth want their voice to be heard, especially in regards to Niizh Manitoag (Two-Spirited) individuals, who are also part of the LGBTQ2S community. Youth expressed that sexism and transphobic ideologies are deeply ingrained in everyday behaviours, language, and within policies of many social and health services and are even often normalized. Traditionally, Elders told stories of the Niiz Manitoag individuals and how they were gifted because they are able to carry two spirits and were honoured and admired. Yet, today, Niiz Manitoag often face outdated worldviews and beliefs which often result in experiencing discrimination, sexism, homophobia, and classism, which can lead to damaged spirits and marginalized social statuses that shape traumas. It was also raised that individuals that are often turned to as leaders within Anishinabek communities should strive to create an inclusive environment free from transphobia in order to create understanding, trust, and healing. Embodying the Seven Grandfather Teachings when youth reach out, especially with Niiz Manitoag individuals, needs to be instilled and practised by all to reinforce and strengthen the teachings. It was also voiced that there is a need for youth healing centres that blend land-based education with preventative approaches to support youth transitions.

Upon reflection of the historical effects of lateral violence and looking at it through the lens of Matrimonial Real Property, it acknowledges that First Nations are combating the gender-based systemic racism by removing the clause within the Indian Act where men were only able to hold title to properties and women and children were often forced to move. There are still some gaps within MRPs; however, communities are working hard to move away from these colonial laws and return to traditional laws where everyone is valued equally. Through collective learning to combat lateral violence and stigmas, the adverse effects can be reduced.

The Anishinabek Nation encourages Anishinabek Nation First Nations leadership, staff, and citizens to assist in embarking on changing Indigenous history and paving a way forward towards improving the road ahead for future generations. Citizens are welcome to attend the upcoming virtual sessions to bring forward critical feedback and/or matters as they relate to the key aspects of UNDRIP. The Anishinabek Nation will be gathering all feedback provided on what Anishinabek would like to see in Canada’s 10-year action plan and what changes need to happen within federal legislation over the next decade. A report will be submitted to the federal government outlining feedback and identifying priorities of needed federal legislative change.

The next virtual engagement session will be hosted on September 7, 2022, featuring the Shiikenh (Turtle) Dodem, which involves discussions about Decision-making, Law Making, Justice, Criminal Law, and other judicial matters.

Other upcoming sessions include:

• September 21, 2022: Maang (Loon) Dodem – Equality and Discrimination, Wills and Estates, Employment and Labour, Human Rights; and
• October 5, 2022: Mukwaa (Bear) Dodem – Health, Policing, Military, and other issues.

If you or anyone from your First Nation would like to participate in these sessions or would like to request a separate session, please contact Anishinabek Nation’s Justice Manager Kristy Jones: kristy.jones@anishinabek.ca. Virtual engagement sessions registration available here.