False claims of Indigenous identity by non-Indigenous people perpetuates harm for Indigenous people and communities. Through a facilitated question and answer session, our esteemed panelists will address the changing dynamics of white identities (why do so many white people want to be Indigenous?), self-indigenization and settler colonial logics (how does self-indigenization fit into understandings of settler colonialism?) and the pushback (what can be done to stop self-indigenization?).

This session explores the fundamentals of Indigenous identity, key issues related to false claims and what non-Indigenous and Indigenous lawyers can do to appropriately protect against this. This session is for all lawyers, articling and law students, and judges.

About Crystal Fafard

Crystal Fafard is a partner with Maurice Law and is a member of Yellow Quill First Nation in Treaty 4 Territory and is a well known leader in Economic Development, contributing her skills and knowledge  for almost three decades.  She received her B. A. (Honours) from the U of S and J.D. law degree from the UBC in 2000.  She works exclusively for and with Indigenous communities in the area of economic development/corporate and her dream has always been to see First Nations succeed and overcome the negative impacts of colonization.  While promoting economic development she understands the delicate balance in maintaining a healthy and thriving environment and strongly advocates that Indigenous people press industry to meet or exceed environmental standards to protect future generations. 

Crystal is a member of the Indigenous Women’s Collective who’s mandate is “collectively working to end colonial violence and oppression against Indigenous Women in Canada” by advocating against those who claim false Indigenous identities for personal benefit.

Crystal sees Indigenous women leading decolonization and future nation building across Turtle Island.

About Dr. Darryl Leroux

Darryl Leroux is an associate professor of political studies at the University of Ottawa. Since 2015, he has been researching the phenomenon of false claims to Indigenous identify made by white Canadians. Since the publication of Distorted Descent: White Claims to Indigenous Identity, he worked extensively with First Nation, Métis, and Inuit governments concerned about the impacts of the self-indigenization movement.

This recording is hosted by CBABC, which is located on the traditional and unceded territory of the Coast Salish peoples, including the Squamish, Tsleil-Waututh and Musqueam First Nations. We encourage our members to explore the rich history and knowledge of Indigenous people, and to continue learning about their experience in Canada, past and present.