Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre’s record on Indigenous rights has ignited a firestorm of reactions as Canada’s election season heats up.
While some praise his economic-focused policies like the First Nations resource charge, others, including Indigenous advocates, express deep concerns over his admiration for Canada’s first prime minister, John A. Macdonald, and his past statements on residential schools and Indigenous rights.
Here’s a deep dive into Poilievre’s positions, promises, and the polarizing responses they’ve triggered.
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Poilievre’s Admiration for John A. Macdonald Raises Eyebrows
Pierre Poilievre doesn’t shy away from his reverence for Sir John A. Macdonald, Canada’s first prime minister.
In a recent election ad, Poilievre is seen addressing a bust of Macdonald, asking, “Could you get the railway built today?” The ad underscores his vision of uniting Canada through ambitious national projects, like the Canadian Pacific Railway Macdonald championed.
Yet, this admiration isn’t without controversy.
Macdonald’s legacy is a double-edged sword.
While he spearheaded the railway’s construction, he did so at a devastating cost to Indigenous Peoples—using starvation, detention, and displacement as tools.
He also laid the groundwork for the residential school system, a dark chapter in Canadian history.
Poilievre’s frequent nods to Macdonald, from campaign speeches to social media tributes and even dressing up in 2012 to honor him, have alarmed critics.
Métis lawyer Bruce McIvor of First Peoples Law calls it “worrying.”
He warns, “Poilievre dreams of being a 21st-century John A. Macdonald, and his words reflect that ambition.”
For Indigenous advocates, this connection signals a troubling approach to Indigenous rights and reconciliation.
A Mixed Record on Indigenous Issues
Since becoming Conservative Party leader in 2022, Poilievre has pitched economic reconciliation and resource development as his key messages to Indigenous voters.
However, his track record reveals a pattern that has left advocates uneasy.
Residential Schools: A Controversial Stance
In 2008, on the same day then-Prime Minister Stephen Harper issued a landmark apology to residential school survivors, Poilievre took a starkly different tone.
Speaking on an Ottawa radio show, he questioned the value of the $4 billion compensation package, saying survivors needed “hard work, independence, and self-reliance” rather than more funds.
“Are we really getting value for all this money?” he asked.
The backlash was swift.
Poilievre was forced to apologize in Parliament the next day.
Yet, for many Indigenous leaders, the incident remains a red flag, casting doubt on his commitment to addressing the intergenerational trauma caused by residential schools.
Opposition to UNDRIP
Poilievre’s stance on the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) has further fueled concerns.
In 2021, he voted against a bill to align Canadian laws with UNDRIP, arguing that the principle of “free, prior, and informed consent” would grant Indigenous communities a “veto” over resource projects.
Critics like Judy Wilson, former chief of the Neskonlith Indian Band, argue this rejection undermines Indigenous sovereignty and self-determination.
Wilson, who heard Poilievre speak at the Assembly of First Nations in 2024, also noted his silence on critical issues like missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls, treaty rights, and climate change.
“His lack of support for UNDRIP is deeply concerning,” she said.
Nunavut Base Announcement Sparks Consultation Critique
In February 2025, Poilievre’s trip to the Arctic highlighted another flashpoint.
He pledged to build a new military base in Nunavut if elected, but Nunavut Premier P.J. Akeeagok criticized the lack of consultation with Northerners.
For many, this incident reinforced fears that Poilievre prioritizes expediency over meaningful Indigenous engagement.
Election Promises: Energy Corridor and Resource Charge
Poilievre’s campaign hinges on bold economic pledges, two of which stand out for their implications on Indigenous communities: the Canada First National Energy Corridor and the First Nations resource charge.
The Energy Corridor: Pre-Approved Projects
In his ad featuring Macdonald’s bust, Poilievre promises a pre-approved “energy corridor” for pipelines, rail, and power lines.
He frames it as a way to “honor Macdonald’s legacy” by uniting Canada through infrastructure.
However, this plan has alarmed legal experts like Bruce McIvor.
McIvor points to the Supreme Court’s affirmation of the Crown’s duty to consult Indigenous Peoples on projects affecting their lands.
“Pre-approving projects before consultation is unconstitutional,” he argues.
Poilievre’s vow to fast-track permits for mining in Ontario’s Ring of Fire within six months of taking office only deepens these concerns.
Critics fear it sidesteps Indigenous rights in favor of industry.
First Nations Resource Charge: A Step Forward?
On the flip side, Poilievre’s endorsement of the First Nations resource charge has earned cautious praise.
Developed by the bipartisan First Nations Tax Commission, this opt-in policy would let First Nations directly tax resource projects on their lands, boosting economic autonomy.
Ch’íyáqtel Chief Derek Epp, a commission member, welcomes the Conservative backing.
“It signals Canada’s commitment to Indigenous economic justice,” he says.
John Desjarlais of the Indigenous Resource Network agrees, applauding the focus on reducing government paternalism and empowering communities.
Yet, questions linger.
Will the tax apply only to reserve lands or extend to traditional territories? Epp insists the latter is “integral,” while Desjarlais warns that limiting it to reserves would diminish its impact.
Critics also worry it could let governments off the hook on consultation duties—a concern Epp dismisses, citing UNDRIP protections.
Supporters vs. Skeptics: A Divided Response
Poilievre’s Indigenous policies have split opinions.
Supporters like Epp and Desjarlais see the resource charge as a game-changer for economic reconciliation, streamlining bureaucracy while respecting Indigenous choice.
“Less government, more community control—that’s promising,” Desjarlais says.
Skeptics, however, question the sincerity behind the rhetoric.
“Campaign promises are easy to make, but will they be kept?” Desjarlais muses.
McIvor and Wilson, meanwhile, see Poilievre’s Macdonald fixation and anti-UNDRIP stance as evidence of a broader disregard for Indigenous rights.
The Nunavut base fiasco only amplifies their doubts.
What’s at Stake in the Election?
As of April 7, 2025, Poilievre’s vision for Canada—a blend of economic growth, resource development, and a nod to historical figures like Macdonald—resonates with some voters.
His First Nations resource charge offers a tangible olive branch to Indigenous communities seeking financial independence.
Yet, his past remarks, opposition to UNDRIP, and push for pre-approved projects have advocates on edge.
For Indigenous Peoples, the stakes couldn’t be higher.
Will Poilievre’s policies deliver economic empowerment, or do they risk repeating the colonial missteps of the past?
As the election looms, Canada watches closely.
Stay updated with CTC News.
