Indigenous Peoples in the Canadian Criminal Justice System:

Over-representation & Systemic Discrimination

Abstract

Indigenous peoples are significantly over-represented in the Canadian Criminal Justice System. The over-criminalization and over-incarceration of Indigenous men and women is a major issue in Canadian justice. This article explores the systemic discrimination, stemming from colonial processes and socioeconomic marginalization of Indigenous peoples, which has impacted their representation and experiences in the criminal justice system as offenders. The article also explores some of the strategies and initiatives implemented by the justice system to address Indigenous over-representation, and the possible downfalls of such strategies which have impacted their effectiveness.