Nunatsiavut voices support for independent Indigenous verification at MUN

Nunatsiavut President Johannes Lampe says he agrees with a new report that says Memorial University needs to improve its practices for verifying Indigenous identity. (Hamlin Lampe)

The Nunatsiavut government is applauding an independent report that offers recommendations of how Memorial University can better its approach to confirming Indigenous identity.

In a press release Friday, Nunatsiavut President Johannes Lampe called the issue of false claims on Indigenous identity a "serious problem" in universities across Canada and said the report shows the university's dedication to creating an inclusive environment while underscoring a commitment to reconciliation.

"We encourage MUN to accept and implement the recommendations contained in this report, and urge other educational institutions in the province and across Canada to prioritize truth, reconciliation, and Indigenous representation within their establishments."

The report, from Canadian Indigenous advisory firm First Peoples Group, recommends verifying an Indigenous collective through a two-pronged approach: federal government recognition under Section 35 of the Constitution Act and/or acceptance by other federally recognized Indigenous groups.

It comes following the removal of former MUN president Vianne Timmons. She left her position after a CBC News investigation raised questions about previous statements about her Indigenous ancestry and membership in an unrecognized band.

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