Dear Minister Hadju and Minister Anandasangaree,
On behalf of the National Indigenous Economic Development Board (NIEDB), I wish to bring to your attention a crucial barrier that impedes the career advancement opportunities for Indigenous Peoples within the Canadian federal public service—the language requirement, specifically the need for proficiency in the French language. While acknowledging the significance of bilingualism in promoting a diverse and inclusive workforce, it is imperative to recognize that this requirement disproportionately affects Indigenous individuals and poses a considerable obstacle to their professional growth within the public service. We also acknowledge that we do have communities in Quebec who operate exclusively in their Inuit/First Nation language and the French language. Knowing this, we believe that Indigenous languages should also be considered as a second language whether it be an Indigenous language and English, or an Indigenous language and French.
As you know, Indigenous communities across Canada showcase a rich cultural and linguistic diversity, with many Indigenous languages spoken as mother tongues. Recognizing the importance of preserving and revitalizing Indigenous languages, we propose that Indigenous languages be considered as a valid second language that satisfies the bilingualism imperative set by the federal government. This approach aligns with the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP), which emphasizes the right of Indigenous Peoples to maintain and revitalize their languages.
By acknowledging Indigenous languages as a valid second language, the federal public service would not only honor the cultural rights of Indigenous Peoples but also create a pathway for their meaningful participation in public service roles. Not only would this approach contribute to a more inclusive and equitable work environment, but also would contribute to fostering a greater understanding and appreciation of Indigenous cultures and languages within Federal organizations.
As a Board, we would like to put forth the following recommendations to address this issue:
By adopting these measures, we believe that the Canadian federal public service can take significant strides toward fostering a more inclusive and equitable workplace for Indigenous Peoples. We appreciate your attention to this matter and are available for further collaboration to explore practical solutions that ensure the representation and success of Indigenous individuals within the Canadian federal public service.
Thank you for your attention to this important matter and your commitment to our ongoing dialogue and collaboration.
Sincerely,
Dawn Madahbee Leach
Directrice général
Le Conseil national de développement économique des Autochtones