83. Canada Council for the Arts to establish a strategy for Indigenous and non-Indigenous artists to undertake collaborative projects

We call upon the Canada Council for the Arts to establish, as a funding priority, a strategy for Indigenous and non-Indigenous artists to undertake collaborative projects and produce works that contribute to the reconciliation process.

According to the Canada Council for the Arts 2016-2021 Strategic Plan, supporting Indigenous art is a key priority.

The plan states that “We will support projects that stimulate Indigenous artists, enrich their artistic practices, and inspire their communities. This new approach represents a transformation of the way the Council funds, supports and acknowledges the Indigenous arts and cultures of Canada.”

As a result of this commitment, in 2017, the Council launched a funding program called “Creating, Knowing and Sharing: The Arts and Cultures of First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples.”

Creating, Knowing and Sharing provides grants to First Nations, Inuit and Métis individual, groups or organizations, for funding for artistic and cultural projects.

The program, according to their website, is “guided by Indigenous values and worldviews, administered by staff of First Nations, Inuit and Métis heritage, and assessed by First Nations, Inuit and Métis individuals.”

In July 2020, Anishinaabe writer, broadcaster and speaker Jesse Wente was appointed chairperson of the Canada Council for the Arts for a five-year term.