Hub Podcasts David Frum on what happened to Indigenous reconciliation in Canada
Jan 3, 2026
David Frum, a prominent author and political commentator, dives into his recent Atlantic article about Indigenous reconciliation in Canada. He discusses a crucial court decision that challenges property rights and critiques federal funding's failure to improve Indigenous well-being. Frum argues for a shift from historical grievances to measurable outcomes like education and health. He highlights the necessity of accountability within Indigenous organizations and advocates for self-determination, cautioning against policies that foster dependency.
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Aboriginal Title Became A Legal Collision
- The Cowichan decision converts a metaphor of Indigenous land use into English-style indefeasible title that collides with existing private property law.
- David Frum warns this judicial conversion threatens long-settled land titles and legal certainty across Canada.
More Money, Worse Outcomes
- Canada increased Indigenous spending dramatically yet Indigenous well-being has deteriorated in many metrics over the past decade.
- Frum highlights falling life expectancy and rising overdose deaths despite vast transfers and programs.
Flawed Truth And Reconciliation Framework
- Frum criticizes Canada's Truth and Reconciliation framework as borrowing a South African model that misframes truth and mutual reconciliation.
- He argues the process often prioritized narrative and demands over rigorous factual verification and mutual amnesty.