GG's comment that Indigenous people are 'immigrants' sparks social media outrage

Gov. Gen. David Johnston's later attempt to clarify comment sparks more anger

Image | David Johnston dancing children

Caption: Governor General David Johnston, seen in this 2015 photo, sparked outrage when he referred to Indigenous people as "ìmmigrants" in a recent interview. (Blair Gable/Reuters)

He's since apologized — but Canada's Governor General sparked outrage on social media when he spoke of Indigenous peoples in quotations and referred to them as immigrants during a recent interview.
"We're a country based on immigration, going right back to our 'Indigenous people' who were immigrants as well, 10, 12, 14,000 years ago," said David Johnston, speaking to Chris Hall on the June 15 episode of CBC's The House.

'Righteous anger & fury'

Those comments sparked a firestorm on social media, especially from Indigenous people themselves.

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Though his term expires in September, some were calling on the Governor General to step down because of his comment.

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The Governor General later said he misspoke.
On Monday, three days after the interview aired — and after announcing an upcoming ceremony honouring Indigenous leaders — Johnston tweeted about his statement.
But his use of "our'"when referring to Indigenous people didn't sit well with some either.

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On Monday, Johnston offered a more detailed apology for his comments while speaking at the ceremony at Rideau Hall.
"The better country we desire is above all a more inclusive one that supports, encourages and acknowledges the contributions of all peoples, including Indigenous peoples, the original peoples of this land. Let me apologize for not expressing myself correctly on this matter recently. Indigenous peoples are the original peoples," Johnston said.