How to Speak Up If Housing is Being Unfairly Distributed in Your Community

Fair housing is a basic right, and everyone should have equal access to it. Unfortunately, sometimes First Nations' housing gets distributed unfairly, with some people receiving houses because of favoritism or connections. If you believe this is happening in your community, here’s what you can do:

1. Gather Information

Before taking any action, collect as much information as possible:

Request Housing Rules: Ask for the official guidelines on how houses are supposed to be given out. If there are no rules, that’s a red flag.

Talk to People: Find out if others have been unfairly denied housing or noticed favoritism.

Look for Patterns: If certain families or supporters are always getting housing, make note of it.

Request Financial Records: If you suspect money is being misused, ask for a financial review.

2. Ask Questions

Once you have the facts, start asking for answers:

Attend Band Meetings: Ask leaders how housing decisions are made.

Request Written Responses: Ask for clear, written answers about why some people get housing while others don’t.

Encourage Others to Speak: If others join in, leadership may be forced to address the issue.

3. File a Formal Complaint

If leaders ignore your concerns, file an official complaint:

Submit to Band Administration: Start with a written complaint to the band office.

Contact Indigenous Services Canada: If the band gets federal housing funds, let them know.

File with Ombudsman or Human Rights Commission: In some areas, you can report unfair treatment to these organizations.

4. Create Public Pressure

If things don’t change, get the community involved:

Gather Support: The more people who speak out, the harder it is to ignore.

Start a Petition: Demand fair housing rules.

Use social media and Local News: Share the issue online and with journalists to raise awareness.

5. Consider Legal Action

If all else fails, you can take legal steps:

File a Lawsuit: You may be able to go to court if housing funds are misused or policies are unfair.

Seek Legal Help: Organizations that specialize in Indigenous law can guide you through the process.

Act and Demand Fairness:  You have the right to question how housing is being given out.

Here’s a simple plan:

·       Collect evidence...keep dates and times that you've reached out.

·       Ask questions...don't be afraid to ask questions you have a right to.

·       File complaints...write an email and file a complaint.

·       Rally community support...get a petition, talk and share.

Use media and legal action if needed...contact APTN or other media outlets to share your story. Your story is your story!

Fair housing is a basic right. If things aren’t being done fairly, your voice can help make a change.

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