Indigenous Cultural Burns Gain National Support in Canada

A Shift in Public Perception on Indigenous Fire Stewardship

For generations, Indigenous fire stewardship has been marginalized by colonial policies that criminalized cultural burns. Now, a national poll reveals a significant shift in public opinion, with 76% of Canadians supporting Indigenous-led fire management practices.

The Indigenous Leadership Initiative (ILI) commissioned Pollara Strategic to conduct a survey of 2,250 Canadians in August, finding that 84% of respondents recognized the importance of Indigenous fire stewardship after learning about it. Despite 49% initially being unfamiliar with the practice, the data shows growing awareness and acceptance.

Indigenous Firekeepers Welcome the Change

Sheri Lysons, Secwépemc fire steward from Adams Lake Indian Band, has spent decades advocating for cultural burns. "It's about time," she said of the poll results, noting that non-Indigenous Canadians are increasingly recognizing the benefits of Indigenous fire management.

Lysons highlighted recent provincial legislation in British Columbia that now supports cultural burning, allowing Indigenous firekeepers to "do the work that needs to be done." She emphasized the importance of education in dispelling misinformation, especially as wildfire seasons intensify across Canada.

From Suppression to Support

For over a century, colonial policies have suppressed Indigenous fire practices, treating them as threats rather than sustainable land management techniques. Today, 82% of Canadians support federal funding for Indigenous fire stewardship, though Lysons aims for 100% support.

The poll reflects a broader cultural shift toward recognizing Indigenous knowledge as valid science. As wildfires become more frequent and severe, the need for traditional fire management practices is gaining national recognition.