Research summary: Labour market outcomes of the Indigenous population during Covid-19

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Why this study

Indigenous peoples make up 5% of the Canadian population or roughly 1.8 million people. Very little research exists on how COVID-19 affected Canadian Indigenous peoples' ability to find:

• work
• how much they work, and
• how much they earn

The 2021 Census included a question on who adjusted their full-time, year-round work because of COVID-19. This allowed us to investigate the pandemic's long-term effects on employees. It also included examining impacts on Indigenous peoples.

What we did

Using 2021 Census data, this study examined the impact of COVID-19 on full-time employees who had to reduce their year-round employment. It also examined employee characteristics such as gender and age group. This study features a focus on Indigenous populations.

What we found

The impacts of the pandemic on employment were worse for Indigenous people regardless of education level. Indigenous workers were most affected in the following occupations:

• trades
• transport
• equipment operations occupations, and
• sales and service occupations

Additionally, Indigenous full-time employees were more likely to shift to part-year work due to COVID-19. Inuit employees experienced a significant reduction in weeks worked. The lost over 33 weeks on average compared to 27 weeks for non-Indigenous workers. Full-time employees, including Inuit workers, saw income increases. The effect was mixed for part-time Indigenous employees. Some experienced declines in earnings while others experienced gains.

What it means

This study highlights the need for policy focused on Indigenous peoples. Programs for improving access to higher education and skills training could help cushion the effects of future employment shocks. It is critical to support employment in vulnerable occupations like trades and services. Enhanced social safety nets and economic recovery programs could help reduce losses in weeks worked. It can also help maintain employment opportunities during the pandemic. Long-term investments are needed to support an inclusive recovery for Indigenous people, including:

• education
• infrastructure, and
• employment supports

Contact us

For access to the full report, please contact us using the email address below.

Skills and Employment Branch, Labour Market Information Directorate, Policy Research Analysis and Geomatics Division

Email: esdc.nc.sspb.research-recherche.dgpss.cn.edsc@esdc-edsc.gc.ca