Review of the Affirmation of Indigenous Identity in Appointment Processes (22-07)

Dear colleagues,

I am pleased to inform you that we have now completed the review of the affirmation of Indigenous identity in the appointment processes.

In respect of the Reconciliation principles, engagement with Indigenous groups throughout the review process was key in influencing the path forward. Our consultations revealed strong support for the continued use of the affirmation form. The form recognizes the uniqueness of Indigenous identity, deters false self-declaration, and helps ensure positions intended for Indigenous persons are filled by Indigenous candidates.

As such, the approach for Indigenous candidates to confirm their Indigenous identity through an affirmation form prior to appointment will be maintained, and will continue to apply to staffing processes where one of the following conditions applies:

• the area of selection is limited to Indigenous Peoples
• an organizational need is used to increase the representation of Indigenous Peoples
• an inventory of Indigenous candidates or a student employment program approved by the Treasury Board of Canada Secretariat is used to increase the representation of Indigenous Peoples

Based on feedback, updates have been made to the affirmation form. Effective November 1, 2022, the new Affirmation of Indigenous Identity Form will replace the Affirmation of Aboriginal Affiliation Form.

The Appointment Policy has been adjusted accordingly and a new web page has been created for guidance on the Affirmation of Indigenous Identity Form. 

You may also contact your staffing support advisor to discuss specific questions or situations.

I would like to thank everyone who participated in this review.

Thank you,
Michael Morin
Acting Vice-President
Policy and Communications Sector
Public Service Commission of Canada