OTTAWA — A First Nations activist who was under surveillance by the federal government says she hopes her fight with Ottawa over funding for kids in care serves as an inspiration.
Cindy Blackstock is now entering the final round of her long battle with the federal government over how much money they provide for child and family services on reserves.
The matter has been before the Canadian Human Rights Commission since 2007 and closing arguments are this week.
At issue is whether the federal government is discriminating against aboriginal children by providing less money for their care than what’s provided to non-aboriginal children.
In the course of the case, Blackstock’s social media profiles were mined by the government — a move that went too far according to the federal privacy commissioner.
Blackstock says she hopes her experience will inspire others to speak out when they see injustice happening.