Carney calls Indian Act racist, says he is open to abolishing or reforming it

Prime Minister Mark Carney has called the Indian Act racist and anachronistic, meaning out of date, and said he is open to either abolishing the federal law or reforming it. The Globe and Mail Speaking in French, he used the word racist to describe the act.

The Indian Act was first approved by Parliament in 1876. It sets out many rules for First Nations people, including how reserve land and band governments work. Carney said any changes to the law would only be made in concert with Indigenous communities, meaning together with them.

Carney spoke on Monday, October 26, after a meeting between the federal government, the premiers and First Nations leadership. He said there are many reasons to move on from the Indian Act. CBC News At that meeting, Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew and some First Nations leaders called for the Indian Act to be quashed, or struck down.

Carney also said Canada will amend the First Nations Fiscal Management Act, a law that sets rules for how First Nations manage their finances. CTV News