A recent study reveals that despite experiencing discrimination, many Indigenous individuals and newcomers in the Northwest Territories are unaware of the support available through the N.W.T. Human Rights Commission. The study aimed to assess awareness of the commission, understand discrimination experiences, and enhance support for these communities, particularly focusing on the North Slave region with over half of the territory’s population.
Surveys, interviews, and focus groups conducted by the commission last winter and spring involved 100 individuals and six organizations. Of the 88 survey respondents, 61 identified as Indigenous, and 27 as newcomers who arrived in Canada within the past five years.
Reported discrimination rates were notably high in the N.W.T., with 90% of Indigenous respondents and 78% of newcomers citing discriminatory experiences in the past five years, surpassing national averages. Charles Dent, the commission’s chair, expressed surprise at the extent of reported discrimination. Monfwi MLA Jane Weyallon Armstrong acknowledged discrimination as a prevalent issue in the territory.
Despite high rates of discrimination experiences, few individuals reach out to the commission for assistance, possibly due to concerns about time-wasting and language barriers. The commission, composed of Legislative Assembly-appointed members, addresses discrimination complaints and potential violations of the N.W.T. Human Rights Act.
While over half of Indigenous survey respondents were aware of the commission, only a small percentage of newcomers knew about it. The commission aims to increase awareness, starting in the North Slave region and expanding across the territory by conducting similar research in other regions to accommodate differences.
To better serve communities beyond the capital, Weyallon Armstrong emphasized the importance of the commission being visible and accessible. The study highlighted that newcomers often face discrimination in work environments or job applications. Organizations like the Conseil de développement économique des Territoires du Nord-Ouest (CDETNO) play a role in promoting awareness and facilitating access to resources for newcomers.