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Population: First Nations, Inuit & Métis Peoples
Aboriginal people experience homelessness or housing instability as a result of many personal and/or structural circumstances, that include: familial dysfunction, community violence, addictions, health problems, unemployment, landlord/tenant conflicts, jail release, hospital discharge, and lack of inadequate income. Other factors, including: migration; racism; third-world housing conditions (on-reserve); and, the residential school system, shape the experience of homelessness for aboriginal people. As well - it can be argued that -present day homelessness, amongst aboriginal populations, must invariably be understood as a consequence of the destruction of communities and exploitation resulting from European conquest of North America.

Research suggests that Aboriginal people experience poorer health, lower levels of education, lower income levels, and higher rates of unemployment, when compared to non-Aboriginal people. As well, the Aboriginal population faces ...serious social issues such as high incarceration rates and high suicide rates among youths. Over representation in institutions such as jails and treatment centers leads to an increased risk of discharge into community life, without adequate housing, supports and services.

Racism and discrimination can place an Aboriginal individual at risk of homelessness. As well, a loss of cultural identity disconnects many Aboriginal people from their community. That separation from 'home' often manifests as problems with substance use, family violence, and suicide. These replacements for home undermine an individual's ability to manage difficult circumstance and thrive. Experiences with homelessness – episodic or long-term - are a natural result of 'identity' (no sense of belonging) issues.

AUTHOR: Power, Asetha (2008) Homeless Hub. [Show More][Show Less]


Acknowledgements
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A Canadian Homelessness Research Network (CHRN) initiative. The CHRN has received financial support from the Government of Canada’s Homelessness Partnering Strategy and the Social Science and Humanities Research Council of Canada

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