University now requires proof of Indigenous ancestry claims

The University of Saskatchewan in Canada says anyone who applies for a job or scholarship set aside for Indigenous people will now be required to provide documentation proving they are a member or citizen of an Indigenous community, writes Geoff Leo for CBC News.

The university began working on a new policy following a CBC investigation last year into a high profile professor at the institution who claimed to be Indigenous, without evidence. Carrie Bourassa said she was Métis, Anishinaabe and Tlingit. However, CBC found no evidence that she was indigenous. Genealogical records showed she was of entirely European ancestry.

University President Peter Stoicheff said that up until now, the University of Saskatchewan has relied on self-declaration, which is essentially an honour system. He said there were no requirements for someone to provide documentation to demonstrate Indigenous ancestry or community connection. After consultation with a task force of almost 30 Indigenous politicians, scholars, elders and others, the university has adopted a new approach.
Full report on the CBC site