In conversations about reconciliation and allyship, we often talk about history—what happened, what was taken, and how we begin to heal. But to truly walk alongside Indigenous peoples today, we must also take an honest look at the present realities. These aren’t distant memories. These are the lived experiences of Indigenous communities right now, in this country, in this moment.
Let’s begin with the numbers—not to overwhelm you, but to inform you. To awaken awareness. Because when we see the full picture, we can start to understand what action must look like.
A Young and Growing Population, Facing Huge Challenges
Right now, Indigenous youth represent the fastest-growing demographic in Canada. And yet, 60% of children living on First Nations reserves are growing up in poverty—that’s double the national average.
The challenges don’t stop there. Indigenous people are:
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Experiencing higher rates of diabetes and shorter life expectancy.
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More likely to witness or experience domestic violence.
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Facing some of the highest incarceration rates in the country.
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Indigenous women are seven times more likely to be missing or murdered than non-Indigenous women.
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Nearly 50% of all children in foster care are Indigenous, even though Indigenous children make up less than 8% of Canada’s child population.
These are not coincidences. These are the outcomes of a long history of systemic neglect, broken promises, and failed support systems.
Education Barriers and Isolation
Education—a basic pillar for success—is another area where the gap is painfully wide.
Many Indigenous youth must leave their families and communities to attend high school, traveling to towns or cities just to have a chance at graduation. And even with these sacrifices, only 4 out of 10 Indigenous youth under 19 earn a high school diploma.
This isn’t just about education. It’s about belonging. It’s about safety. And it’s about having a future to hope for.
Health and Safety in Crisis
From boil water advisories to mold-infested homes, many Indigenous families are living in conditions that no one in Canada should ever have to endure. For some remote communities, isolation only deepens the challenges. Clean drinking water, sustainable housing, basic nutrients—these are not guaranteed. And for many, these conditions have existed for generations.
On top of that, Indigenous youth are facing a mental health crisis. Suicide rates are five to seven times higher than the national average. In some northern communities, these tragedies are happening at staggering rates—young lives lost far too soon.
A Broken System Impacts All of Us
These issues don’t live in isolation. They affect the entire fabric of our society. When we lose Indigenous voices to violence, addiction, poverty, or suicide, we lose wisdom, leadership, innovation, and the culture that helps define the soul of this land.
We’re also seeing a rise in gang recruitment, trafficking, and addiction—symptoms of a society that has neglected the foundational needs of Indigenous people for far too long.
Where Do We Go From Here?
We can’t change these realities unless we first acknowledge them. These statistics aren’t just numbers—they are lives, families, communities. And while it may be uncomfortable to confront, we must do it with courage, empathy, and honesty.
Here’s what you can do:
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Educate Yourself and Others
Share these truths in your circles. Talk about them in your classrooms, boardrooms, and family dinners. Start by listening. -
Support Indigenous-led Organizations
Whether it’s youth programming, education, housing, or mental health, there are countless organizations doing work on the ground that need your support. -
Hire and Mentor Indigenous Talent
Don’t wait for resumes to show up. Go to the communities. Build relationships. Create culturally safe work environments. -
Challenge Injustice When You See It
Whether it’s a biased comment, an unfair policy, or lack of representation—use your voice where it matters.
The Path Forward Starts With Awareness
Yes, the problems are real. The pain is real. But so is the potential. So is the resilience. So is the hope.
Together, we can change the future—but only if we’re brave enough to face the present.
hiy hiy
