Overrepresented
Indigenous Women as Profit Makers for the Canadian Judicial System
by Annette Vermette

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The frequency and severity of crime in Canada has been declining, however, the criminalization of Indigenous women is on the rise. How to account for this disparity? With sharp intelligence, inherent wisdom, and the grit of an investigative journalist, Annette Vermette offers new perspectives to academics and the general population regarding the overrepresentation of Indigenous women in prison in Canada. Statistically, Indigenous women are arrested more frequently than those in other demographics, and their prison sentences tend to be longer, indicating that discrimination and colonialism are alive and well in Canada, despite reconciliation efforts. Research shows that neither the offenders nor their communities—nor the victims of crime, for that matter—obtain positive outcomes or necessary healing as a result of incarceration. Vermette investigates the possible political and economic motivators responsible for these skewed rates of incarceration and conceptualizes a new paradigm for justice in Canada using Two-Eyed Seeing—an approach in which one sees from one eye with the strengths of Indigenous knowledge, and from the other eye with the strengths of Western knowledge. The passion, wisdom, and expertise required to generate vital social change already exists. The path is before us. We only need to open our eyes.

annettevermetteauthor.ca

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"This is an evolving topic and the system is experiencing growing pains. I admit however, that it is an interesting perspective and thought provoking." —Byron Gillard, Retired police officer "A very interesting and compelling perspective related to a significant current challenge. It merits serious consideration." —Juliette S. Denis, Métis Elder

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Annette Vermette lives in Sudbury, Ontario but has relocated several times to offer her social work expertise to other communities in Northern Ontario. Annette completed her Bachelor of Social Work and a Bachelor of Arts with Specialization in Indigenous Studies in Sudbury, and she is proud to have completed her studies as a mature student. The varied populations she has encountered during her career have opened her eyes to the deficiencies in a moral-judicial approach towards the Indigenous women that are entwined with the law in underserviced communities. Annette’s Métis heritage informs her understanding of moral issues faced by racialized populations, which in turn fuels her resolve to write about a controversial and crucial topic. Many have attempted to silence her voice, but she persists, out of determination to shed light on (these issues) and hope to inspire change. She lives with her husband, Byron, and two cats, Chilli and Missy (short for Mischievous). She enjoys sewing, quilting, and cooking. Her adult children live nearby, and her grandchildren are her pride and joy.

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Contributors

Author

Annette Vermette

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