Misrepresentation of Indigenous Ancestry Ends with Revocation of Awards

 


In November of 2022, Indian Time ran a story, “Indigenous Women’s Group Call for Revocation of Turpel-Lafond’s Honorary Degrees.” The Indigenous Women’s Collective (IWC) in Canada requested certain universities revoke honorary degrees granted to high-profile academic and former judge Mary Ellen Turpel-Lafond.

On March 9th, the B.C. Civil Liberties Association (BCCLA) announced they had rescinded the 2020 Reg Robson Award from Mary Ellen Turpel-Lafond.

BCCLA read in part, “Dr. Turpel-Lafond’s misrepresentation regarding her purported Indigenous ancestry must also be contextualized within the greater, widespread pattern of Indigenous identity fraud, and the severe harms that it causes. Indeed, Indigenous identity fraud perpetuates colonial violence and assimilation practices, allowing settlers to shape the future for Indigenous communities while marginalizing Indigenous voices and weakening self-determination.

In this case, Dr. Turpel-Lafond’s actions have taken away opportunities and recognition which were rightfully owed to Indigenous women. This is particularly egregious, given the manner in which colonization and patriarchy intersect to cause particular harm to Indigenous women. Further, any further damage caused by Dr. Turpel-Lafond’s use of her professional position of influence, in particular to the rights of Indigenous peoples, is yet to be duly reviewed and understood.

For these reasons, the BCCLA Board and Staff have unanimously decided to formally rescind the 2020 Reg Robson Award given to Dr. Turpel-Lafond and understand we have an obligation to be transparent and accountable regarding our decision.”

While the revocation of an award is one step, the IWC requested certain universities to revoke Turpel-Lafond honorary degrees. Universities say they are considering this request.

 

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