Trusted sources: First Nations organizations leading the way for registration and secure status card services
To address barriers in accessing Secure Certificates of Indian Status (SCIS), the Southern Chiefs' Organization (SCO) in Manitoba launched the Status Card Program in the fall of 2021. Since then, SCO as a trusted source, has helped First Nations clients register under the Indian Act, also known as Indian status, and obtain an SCIS card.
Two people sharing a smile during a community gathering.
Southern Chiefs' Organization's role as a trusted source
The SCO is one of 34 trusted sources across Canada designated as a reliable partner to assist First Nations people access their registration and status card applications. Trusted sources, trained by Indigenous Services Canada (ISC), offer their services, at no cost, including:
- raising awareness about legislative amendments in entitlement to registration under the Indian Act
- reviewing, completing and submitting applications
- copying or certifying required documents
- taking photos for their SCIS
Providing support and empowerment
Urban Indigenous organizations are at the heart of the Trusted Source program. Though other government departments are also designated trusted sources, First Nations organizations form the backbone of this initiative. Their deep community connections make them uniquely positioned not only to provide essential support to their nations but also to empower individuals to apply for registration and get a status card.
In just under 3 years, the Southern Chiefs' Organization's Status Card Program has helped over 19,000 First Nations people navigate the SCIS application process with culturally safe, trauma-informed support. The program was created by First Nations people, for First Nations people, to ensure that the process is welcoming, familiar and meets the individual needs of applicants. Every applicant is treated with dignity and respect.
"The SCO Status Card Program was very helpful with assisting our family with an application for registration," shares the Wilkins family, who recently used the program." The team treated us with kindness and respect and helped us navigate the requirements we needed to complete an application. They were very knowledgeable and answered or found the answers to all of our questions, making the process seamless and enjoyable. The SCO Status Card team is truly there to help families like mine learn about the programs offered. Thank you SCO!"
The Wilkins family's experience highlights the kind of supportive, personalized care that the program offers.
Similarly, Fiona, a participant in the program, expresses her gratitude: "My experience with SCO Status Card Program was excellent. I have multiple sclerosis and experience many visual problems. My family was treated with patience and understanding. Everything was filled out quickly and efficiently and the process was stress free. The clear communication afterwards was very appreciated."
Through reciprocal and respectful relationships with clients and stakeholders, SCO has demonstrated that accessing essential documents is not a barrier but a step toward empowerment and self-determination. By providing this service, SCO is making great strides to help citizens be healthier, increase access to financial and social resources and help First Nations people claim their rights for generations.
"SCO is honoured to provide advocacy, programs, and services that support and empower our nations and the citizens we represent." said SCO Grand Chief Jerry Daniels. "I am proud of the work being done at the direction of the southern chiefs and SCO is pleased to offer this status card service to help our citizens apply for their first status card, or renew or replace their existing cards, so that we can all access the benefits negotiated by our ancestors."
The road ahead
The impact that SCO has had on the community reflects the great work that trusted sources across the country carry out every day. As ISC Director of Registration Reform Stuart Hooft shares,
"The work of the Southern Chiefs' Organization is a shining example of the transformative impact trusted sources can have on their communities. Their dedication to supporting First Nations people and ensuring access to essential services is a testament to the power of community-driven solutions. As we look ahead, ISC remains committed to expanding these partnerships to ensure even more First Nations individuals can access the services they deserve."
Applications for new trusted sources are open. The department's goal is to expand this network to reach even more First Nations citizens across the country. In the meantime, individuals in need of registration and secure status card support are encouraged to visit a trusted source in their area for in-person assistance. You can find a full list of trusted sources and their locations on the ISC website.