Indigenous Rights Are Fundamental Human Rights: Truth and Reconciliation in Action

A Global Human Rights Issue: Challenges Persist in Canada and Worldwide

As we reflect on the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on September 30, it is crucial to recognize that the inequalities faced by Indigenous Peoples in Canada are part of a broader global challenge—a fundamental human rights issue that transcends borders and affects us all.

Representing over 6 percent of the world’s population, Indigenous Peoples in around 90 countries have been systematically denied basic human rights for centuries. Despite their significant presence, they account for almost 19 percent of those living in extreme poverty—nearly three times more likely to experience poverty than non-Indigenous populations.

The impact is particularly harsh on Indigenous women and youth, who continue to face barriers to accessing education, employment, justice, and decision-making opportunities. The lack of legal recognition, disaggregated data, and the semi-autonomous status of these individuals exacerbate their invisibility, leaving them vulnerable to gender-based violence and other forms of injustice at rates far exceeding national averages.?

The failure to address these systemic issues continues to perpetuate cycles of inequality. In recent years, in response to Indigenous Peoples' rights to lands, territories, and resources, there has been the displacement of millions, increasing violence, and an alarming rise in attacks against Indigenous human rights defenders worldwide.

Indigenous rights are a vital pillar of the broader human rights framework. It serves as the base of an equitable and inclusive society where every individual is entitled to enjoy human rights without discrimination. The violation of Indigenous rights undermines the very essence of human rights, threatening the integrity of societies both locally and globally. Until these rights are fully respected, we cannot truly claim to safeguard all human rights.

Read more about the impact of residential schools on Indigenous communities and emphasize the continued path towards equity and reconciliation -?The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation: A Path to Equity.

Actions in Motion: Progress and the Path Forward

Despite challenges, Indigenous Peoples and their allies are making strides in pushing for their deserved rights and participation in decision-making at all levels. A landmark moment came in 2017 when the UN General Assembly adopted resolution A/RES/71/321 entitled Enhancing the Participation of Indigenous Peoples’ Representatives and Institutions in Meetings of Relevant United Nations Bodies on Issues Affecting Them. This marked a pivotal step in ensuring Indigenous Peoples have a voice in global political decisions.

On the national front, Canada has also made notable progress. In 2021, the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (UN Declaration) was granted Royal Assent and came into force in Canada. This legislation is a milestone in renewing the Government of Canada’s relationship with Indigenous Peoples. It establishes a framework for reconciliation, healing, peace, and harmonious and cooperative relations based on justice, democracy, respect for human rights, non-discrimination, and good faith.

While Canada’s implementation of the UN Declaration shows positive advancements, there is still a long way to go. Reconciliation is not a singular event but a continuous process that demands persistent efforts and accountability from governments, businesses, organizations, and individuals. This is only the beginning of a long path toward equality and justice.

Looking Ahead: Empowering Change Through Allyship

Moving forward, building a culture of support and allyship is essential. At UN Global Compact Network Canada , we are proud to serve as an Ecosystem Partner of the 50 – 30 Challenge, an initiative dedicated to increasing diverse and equitable representation in businesses, nonprofits, and institutions across Canada. Supported by Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada | Innovation, Sciences et Développement économique Canada , our three-year project, “The Future is Equal: Enabling Ecosystems of Support in Canada,” is helping organizations amplify the voices of equity-deserving groups and foster workplaces where equity thrives.

Specifically, the 50 – 30 Challenge aims to achieve two goals: gender parity with 50% of women and/or non-binary people on boards and/or in senior management, and ensuring that 30% of those positions are held by members of other equity-deserving groups, including those who identify as Racialized, Black, and/or Visible Minorities, People with disabilities, 2SLGBTQ+ and/or gender and sexually diverse individuals, and Aboriginal and/or Indigenous Peoples.?

As part of our commitment to the project, we introduced the “Building Alliances In The Workplace: Creating A Personal Advocacy And Solidarity" Action Plan in collaboration with Accelerate Her Future . This toolkit equips organizations with actionable strategies for fostering inclusive environments, grounded in the lived experiences of Indigenous, Black, and racialized individuals. It encourages a deeper understanding of privilege, power, and intersectionality, guiding allies to engage in solidarity and co-conspiracy to implement equity-based solutions.

This is your opportunity to become an ally in dismantling oppressive systems, confronting unexamined assumptions, and leveraging your unique influence to drive equity and inclusion. Whether you're a leader in DEI or looking to amplify your impact, this action plan is your guide to centring marginalized voices, building authentic solidarity, and shaping a workplace where everyone thrives.?

As highlighted in the toolkit, “We see the possibilities of a world where systemically marginalized people are seen for the richness of their humanity without having to put on performances or live up to unattainable ideals, where they see themselves represented in all levels of leadership in business and politics, where they can exist in their bodies and authentic expression without fear of violence or persecution and where the pressing call for equity-based solutions is quieted because those in any position of privilege and power understand the role they play in standing with and for equity deserving people.”

Every Step Counts: Tangible Change Starts With You

This National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, let’s acknowledge the rights that all Indigenous Peoples in Canada and around the world urgently deserve. Each of us has a vital role to play in this journey—whether through bold, transformational actions or by making small, meaningful steps in our spheres of influence.?

Our collective struggles are all intertwined. Only by standing together can we dismantle the barriers and move forward faster toward true equality. Join us to right the wrongs of history and build a future where Indigenous rights are fully realized as fundamental human rights. Together, we can forge a fairer, brighter world rooted in equity, diversity, and inclusion.?

No action is too small. Discover how you can make an impact today: https://unglobalcompact.ca/knowledge-hub/page.php?id=34?

Written by Lexi Yixuan M. , Marketing and Communication Coordinator, UN Global Compact Network Canada