In the 2021 federal election, 50 Indigenous candidates were identified, of whom only 9 were elected. This report analyzes their success rates by identity (Métis, First Nations, Inuk), province, and political party.
Breakdown by Identity
Among those elected:
- 5 Métis
- 3 First Nations
- 1 Inuk
This results in the following success rates:
- Métis: 31.25%
- First Nations: 12.5%
- Inuk: 33.3%
These numbers reveal that although Inuit candidates were few, they had the highest proportional success. Métis candidates also performed relatively well. In contrast, First Nations candidates, despite forming the largest group, had a lower success rate—highlighting persistent barriers to electoral victory.
Geographic Distribution
The 9 elected Indigenous MPs came from the following provinces:
- Manitoba and Ontario: 2 each
- Alberta, British Columbia, Northwest Territories, Newfoundland and Labrador, and Nova Scotia: 1 each
This suggests that Indigenous electoral success is geographically diverse, not concentrated in one region.
By Political Party
Elected candidates represented the following parties:
- Liberal Party (LPC): 5
- New Democratic Party (NDP): 2
- Conservative Party (CPC): 1
Liberal Indigenous candidates won the majority of seats, suggesting strong institutional support or voter alignment in key ridings.
Performance by Party and Identity
Métis candidates in the Liberal Party had the highest success rate, followed by Inuk candidates (Liberal and NDP). First Nations candidates struggled across all parties, with limited electoral breakthroughs.
Indigenous representation in Parliament versus the Canadian population in 2021
Indigenous MPs represented 2.7% of the 338 seats.
Indigenous peoples made up approximately 4.7% of the Canadian population.
Conclusion
Although Indigenous representation in Parliament remains low, Métis and Inuk candidates achieved notable success. The data underscores the need for greater support and engagement for First Nations candidates, who remain underrepresented despite high participation.
Although more Indigenous candidates are running for office, many are placed in marginal ridings where their chances of success are significantly lower. This underrepresentation highlights a systemic issue: without party support in winnable ridings, meaningful Indigenous political representation in Parliament remains limited despite increasing participation.
