Nishnawbe Aski Nation – Survivors of St. Anne’s Residential school are rejecting Ottawa’s independent review announced on March 18, 2021 outright. Canada hasn’t consulted the survivors with any meaningful dialogue on this new process and without their duty to consult in good faith. “We reject Minister Bennett’s offer as it minimizes the rights of survivors and access to a fair and just review.” said Leo Ashamock, PKKA Board member.

On further evaluation of Canada’s offer of an independent review, we found that it focused only on a handful of St. Anne’s survivors. This would close the door on possibly hundreds of survivors impacted with the introduction of new information. It takes away from their right to choose through a new legal process.

“We are extremely disappointed with the underhanded legal tactics by the Government of Canada to deny the justice that these survivors so rightfully deserve. Prolonging this senseless legal battle with false promises of an independent review makes a mockery of this government’s commitment to reconciliation. I implore Minster Bennett to direct her officials do the right thing, ”said Grand Chief Alvin Fiddler, Nishnawbe Aski Nation.