Buffy Sainte-Marie Stripped of Order of Canada Amidst Controversy
Buffy Sainte-Marie, the renowned singer-songwriter and Order of Canada recipient, has been stripped of her prestigious honor, according to the Toronto Star. The appointment termination was announced on January 3, 2025, by Ken MacKillop, Secretary General of the Order of Canada.
While no specific reason was provided for the termination, an investigation by the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation's "Fifth Estate" has raised concerns about Sainte-Marie's Indigenous identity. The report, published in October 2023 and widely viewed on YouTube, alleges that she fabricated her Indigenous heritage, presenting a birth certificate that lists her birthplace as Boston, Massachusetts, her race as "white," and her birth name as Beverly Jean Santamaria.
A representative of the Office of the Secretary to the Governor General declined to comment on the particulars of the termination but referred to the organization's website, which emphasizes the importance of fairness and evidence in making such decisions.
Sainte-Marie, who turns 84 in February 2025, has been an ardent musician and activist for over six decades, releasing numerous albums that often address themes of war and Indigenous rights. She has received numerous awards and accolades throughout her career, including seven Juno Awards and an induction into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame.
Despite the controversy, some major music organizations in Canada have not revoked their honors bestowed upon Sainte-Marie. The Canadian Academy of Recording Arts & Sciences (CARAS) has yet to comment on the matter.
The controversy has sparked debate among Canadians, with some dismissing the allegations while others condemn Sainte-Marie's actions. Regardless of her true Indigenous heritage, her contributions to music and the Sixties Scoop remain undeniable.