Commentary
When a politician is caught spreading misinformation, an apology and retraction is expected, though not always granted. We don’t expect retractions and apologies from politicians when they tell the truth, though, yet that is what happened with federal Justice Minister and Attorney General Sean Fraser.
Fraser’s apology for stating a verifiable fact isn’t just novel—it sets a dangerous precedent and further entrenches misconceptions about the authority of indigenous people in Canada.
When recently questioned about indigenous concerns over planned projects across Canada, Fraser said, “It demands a very deep level of engagement,” but added that, from his understanding, it “stops short of a complete veto.” Fraser’s statements were respectful, clear, and correct. That didn’t stop activists from blowing up and demanding he retract his statements, however….