For too long, Canada’s governments have made promises on justice and reconciliation that remain unfulfilled. The Green Party is committed to meaningful action—not words—on human rights, Indigenous justice, and disability justice.
Reconciliation & Indigenous Rights
Successive governments have failed to act on the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s 94 Calls to Action. As of 2024, fewer than 15 Calls to Action have been fully implemented under the Liberal government, despite their repeated pledges since 2015 to make reconciliation a top priority. Many critical actions, like addressing the overrepresentation of Indigenous children in foster care and ensuring equitable funding for Indigenous education, remain stalled.
Likewise, the 231 Calls for Justice from the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG) have seen little progress. Despite declaring the findings a “national tragedy” and promising action in 2019, the Liberal government has delayed a coordinated response. The Conservatives, during their time in power, opposed the very launch of the MMIWG Inquiry and have shown little commitment to implementing its recommendations. The NDP voices strong support for Indigenous rights but has not yet secured tangible results at the federal level.
The Green Party calls for full implementation of all 94 Calls to Action and 231 Calls for Justice, with dedicated funding and Indigenous leadership at every stage. We advocate for land back initiatives, the protection and stewardship of Indigenous lands, and the revitalization of Indigenous languages, recognizing them as integral to culture and identity. We would enshrine Indigenous self-determination and sovereignty in all government policies, ensuring Indigenous Peoples lead decisions that affect their communities.
Disability Justice
Disabled Canadians continue to face systemic barriers and poverty. Despite passing legislation for a Canada Disability Benefit (CDB) in 2023, the Liberals have yet to deliver funding or a clear timeline for implementation. The current proposals risk being delayed until at least 2025, leaving over 1.5 million disabled Canadians living in poverty. The Conservatives supported the initial bill but have opposed increases in social spending, raising concerns about whether they would adequately fund the benefit. The NDP has pressed for a faster rollout but lacks the influence to force government action.
The Green Party demands an immediate, fully funded Canada Disability Benefit that provides livable, dignified income support, lifting disabled Canadians above the poverty line. We also call for comprehensive reform of the Disability Tax Credit (DTC), making it accessible and automatic for those already eligible for disability support programs. Furthermore, we would enforce strong workplace inclusion policies, with clear standards and enforcement mechanisms to protect disabled workers from discrimination and ensure their right to meaningful employment.
Human Rights & Social Justice
The Green Party’s vision for human rights extends beyond reconciliation and disability justice. We advocate for justice system reform to address systemic racism, ensure fair treatment, and end the over-incarceration of Indigenous and Black Canadians. We would implement UNDRIP (United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples) in full, with legal force, not just symbolic gestures.
Our approach contrasts with the Liberals, whose human rights commitments are often stalled by slow implementation and bureaucratic delays; the Conservatives, who frequently prioritize corporate interests over social justice; and the NDP, whose proposals align with ours in many areas but lack the urgency and comprehensive vision we bring.
