The Permanent Peoples’ Tribunal in Montreal is set to deliver its final verdict on Wednesday following public hearings held back in May.
During the preliminary assessment, a panel of seven judges highlighted Canada’s history of implementing policies such as the residential school system and forced sterilization of Indigenous women, which were deemed as crimes against humanity with genocidal intent.
Describing the atrocities inflicted on children and young women, the panel emphasized the severe impact of genocidal colonialism that prioritized seizing Indigenous lands and resources.
Moreover, the judgment pointed out Canada’s failure to fulfill its obligations outlined by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission in 2015.
Established in 1979, the international tribunal investigates crimes against humanity and violations of human rights. The recent week-long hearings organized by the Native Women’s Shelter of Montreal aimed to address allegations of Canada’s involvement in crimes against humanity and genocide through residential schools and other institutions.
The PPT expressed hope that the Canadian government would accept and act upon the tribunal’s findings and recommendations. Additionally, it called for the preservation of Independent Assessment Process (IAP) records, which are at risk of being permanently destroyed in 2027, as per a 2017 Supreme Court of Canada ruling.
The upcoming full judgment on the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is awaited with anticipation, coinciding with the annual Every Child Matters March in Montreal. This year’s event carries a heightened significance with the expected verdict from the tribunal.
