More than 10,000 members of Qalipu First Nation have had their membership revoked - APTN NewsAPTN News

8.2.17

More than 10,000 members of Qalipu First Nation have had their membership revoked - APTN NewsAPTN News: What stands out is that 10,512 who were originally members of the band and granted Indian Status, have been rejected.

Kelly Anne Butler received her letter of acceptance in the mail but said she isn’t celebrating.

“I feel terrible for being accepted,” said Butler about those who had their status taken away.

The Qalipu band originally had close to 24,000 members. Of that number, only 13, 365 current band members will retain status.

“I am shocked at the number that’s being dropped,” said Butler. “When I looked at that number – 10, 512 – that just broke me.”

Butler has spent the last few days talking to people who are dealing with the trauma of losing membership, or families who are divided because some have been getting accepted while siblings, parents or relatives are denied.

“I think that what we’re seeing is the beginning of a serious mental wellness issue,” said Butler. “Some people are depressed. Some people are angry, some people aren’t speaking to family members.”