lək̓ʷəŋən (Lekwungen) Traditional Territory, of the Esquimalt and Songhees Nations (Greater Victoria, B.C) 

lək̓ʷəŋən (Lekwungen) Traditional Territory: September 26, 2023

When First Nations peoples receive status card support, (OneFeather) data reveals that there’s a 98% success rate. Without it, they could be waiting up to 2-5 years to get access to their entitlements.

"It was ALL sent back to me, telling me to resubmit

: Status Card Applications & Barriers to Indigenous Rights" (link to Google PDF) 

has been created in response to recognizing and investigating the oppressive measures that First Nations folks encounter, when applying for an identity document that unlocks their legal rights; and exists to provide recommendations to reduce the challenging process to better serve them.

This study came to be, in rise of internal memos found at Indigenous Services Canada and reported on by The Globe and Mail, whereby the Government of Canada admit their complex process which can be perceived as a form of systemic racism, and acknowledge OneFeather's online support service to be an easier option for status card renewals.

"OneFeather's existence implies that people need help to apply and reinforces the idea that government is too complex, perhaps intentionally so."

"Why can't we offer the same service OneFeather does?"

Lawrence Lewis, Founder at OneFeather explains:

"We wanted to deliver a new, easy online solution accessible from any smart device anywhere to replace the current antiquated, and agonizing colonial systems and processes."

The findings show the struggles that First Nations individuals come up against when attempting to access their rights, and detrimental effects it has on their quality of life when support isn't readily available, vs the difference it makes when it is.

Delaney Barlow, Customer Experience Lead at OneFeather states:

“We often hear from our clients that they have already submitted a paper application to ISC (Indigenous Services Canada) and have yet to hear back after a long waiting period - at minimum anywhere from 3 months up to a year.  

The most common emotion our clients express to us when their application is completed using our online service is: relief. Relief that we have caught any possible errors before the application is submitted.”

"By reviewing the official documents from Government of Canada that outline systemic issues, and the data and experiences of status card applicants- we're identifying ways to better serve First Nations folks in removing obstacles, so they can receive what is legally, and rightfully theirs," says Avneet Takhar, the report’s author (settler and guest living on the unceded lands of the Musqueam, Squamish and Tsleil-Waututh Peoples, and member of the OneFeather team).

 is an Indigenous technology company founded by Lawrence Lewis (We Wai Kai Nation). 

Planting seeds of sovereignty in the digital era; they are redefining the Indigenous experience through innovation & tradition, and help provide peoples with safe, barrier free access to their rights and entitlements.

Download Press Release (christie Doc version)

Download Fact Sheet (Christie web version)

It was ALL sent back to me, telling me to resubmit: Status Card Applications & Barriers to Indigenous Rights

In honour of Truth & Reconciliation month, we’re excited to feature former actress and 

 who gives us the inside scoop on her creative journey.

In recognition of this important month there’ll be 

 ( it’s easy to see where to insert the code, if using a larger device)

 is of Ojibwe / Potowatomi heritage, and was brought up in the bustling city of Toronto, Ontario. With a love for the arts from an early age, she studied theatre but soon after decided to pick up the paintbrush in pursuit of honing her skills in the arts & illustration world. Not only changing careers- but also countries, moving to sunny San Diego, California with the support of her status card and Jay Treaty rights, she began expanding her creative endeavours and learning more about her family history.

In candid conversation with Matthews amidst working on an oracle deck (featuring Indigenous legends!) she opens up about her artistic vision – and the innovative path in getting there.

Tell us about how it all started with your art, Kait!

Years ago, after considering studies in illustration or theatre in Canada , I chose the latter after which I pursued work as an actor. I moved stateside to continue my studies. I worked sporadically in theatre, film and television until I realized I wasn’t enjoying the journey anymore. I went back to school and graduated, summa cum laude (the highest distinction achievement) with a Fine Art degree from the Laguna College of Art and Design, Laguna Beach, California.

Your works of art come in many beautiful mediums. Is this multi-faceted approach something you’ve always envisioned as an artist?

Initially I worked with oil, acrylic and mixed media. However, with the advent of Photoshop and the digital age, I currently paint digitally which allows my art to be presented in a variety of different mediums and products (canvases, tote bags, phone covers, journals, t-shirts!) with the hope that more people will be able to enjoy my work, and to also make it more affordable.


What does your Ojibway and Potawatomi identity mean to you?

, I never knew much about my heritage. I searched for my natural mother in my twenties. I was introduced to a whole new family, and culture of which I am so happy to have found and be a part of.

I am also a proud member of Chippewas of Rama. The 

 and my status card allows me to work and live in the United States. I would never have been able to be stateside otherwise.

Was there a reason for moving out to Cali’, U.S (besides the weather)?!


I lived in Toronto for many years, and yes, the weather was definitely calling to me. 😊

And do you find any differences with the artist scene when comparing Toronto and San Diego?


I live in a small town that doesn’t have a large art community so I can’t compare the differences to big cities that have thriving art districts. Any place that honours the art world is a good place to be regardless.

What does Truth & Reconciliation look like from your perspective?


My mother was a residential school survivor. She has shared stories with me.

Any new and exciting things on the horizon for you that we should look out for, Kait?

, published by RedFeather Publishing late last year. Another illustration project is the 

 Currently, I am creating illustrations for an oracle deck featuring the wisdom of Indigenous female warriors, heroines, goddesses, and archetypes through rarely found First Peoples legends.

Kait Matthews’ incredible art on her website

First Nations Artist Kait Matthews on Tarot and Truth & Reconciliation

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