Electoral Reform

Hi Friends
There has been a lot of talk in Indian country around electoral reform. Do I think reform is needed? Yes. Do I think it will please all the Nations that it will impact? No. Just as all the Nations are not exactly happy over the INAC election rules.
If you're unhappy with your elected officials, you need only look in the mirror, as it is you who have elected them. If you do not demand more of your elected representatives than they be a relative, then this is what you get! It is said that you only get the government you deserve. This may sound harsh, but believe me this is what the Canadian people are thinking as well.

With out constitutions' written and membership worked out, then we will always be at the mercy of Ottawa and the INAC ministers making these decisions for us. There is not a one size fits all solution to electoral reform, yet this is exactly what I expect from INAC on this issue. In as much as the Nations themselves are not united on what way we should be headed, then maybe the best course of action, is to stay the course. Accept the reforms and lobby for better down the road.

Some have advocated bringing back(or bringing in) a hereditary chief system. In researching this system of governance, I found out that these were mainly patriarchal systems, and as a grown woman used to making my own decisions I could not in good conscience recommend this system. This system was in place for some reserves, in days gone by where all members were living on the territory. Here I must point out, once again that 70% of any reserve lives off. What of these members? This system is not just exclusionary to the off rez membership, but could also be protectionist in keeping cliques in power. They are also not always traditional, and traditional or not are unfair and undemocratic. If you are unhappy with your democratically elected governments what would make you think this would be any better? If it is a hereditary system you want then by all means nominate these men, and vote them. It has been said democracy is not the best system of government, but it will have to do till something better comes along...I will always opt for democracy.

Still others have been advocating for a referendum on all new reform policies. This would be costly, and time consuming and not likely to be endorsed by INAC. As a realist, I know not all will be pleased with the reforms offered. My question then is "Should we fight against or refuse them, in the hopes that INAC will revisit the issue in any sort of effort to appease the First Nations? Or just get on with them and call it what it truly could be! A good first step!"

regards Debra