“Since the pandemic began more people are living in poverty, while the wealthiest have become even richer. It’s shameful that the government is standing by and letting this happen,” said Gazan. “This bill is a response to calls for a guaranteed livable basic income from Indigenous, territorial, provincial and municipal jurisdictions who clearly recognize the need to modernize our social safety net. A GLBI is not only good for our economy but also critical to ensure that all individuals are able to live with dignity and security – rights afforded in the Canadian Charter.”
“While many factors contribute to the problem of poverty, there is no way to solve the problem without ensuring people have a liveable income,” said MP Daniel Blaikie (Elmwood-Transcona). “The pandemic has shown how fragile our collective and personal economic well-being truly is... but it also showed that, when we work together, we have the power to provide financial security and dignity to our fellow Canadians. Leah’s bill would make income security a fundamental part of Canada’s economic framework grounded in respect for the rights and dignity of human beings. I am proud to second her bill and call on Canadians from coast-to-coast-to-coast to support this initiative for social and economic justice.”
“This isn’t just good financial policy; there is a direct correlation between increased rates of violence and poverty," said Gazan. "The National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls calls for a guaranteed livable basic income as a critical, life-saving measure for Indigenous women, girls, and Two-Spirit individuals. If the government is serious about reconciliation, they need to get this done."
Advocacy groups like Basic Income Manitoba, Basic Income Canada Network, Coalition Canada, and Basic Income Canada Youth Network have also expressed support for Gazan’s bill.
Ahead of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, NDP MP Leah Gazan (Winnipeg Centre) is urging Governor General Louise Arbour to recognize the trauma and sacrifices made by residential school survivors to put us on a path to reconciliation with formally issued pins.
On September 28, 2026, NDP Critic for Indigenous Affairs Leah Gazan Issued the Following Statement:
The act of hate and violence shown by white nationalist residential school denialists demonstrating on the Tk’emlups te Secwepemc First Nation is abhorrent, dangerous and unacceptable.