New Indigenous languages commissioner says her job is to support incoming leadership

Her appointment comes after The Canadian Press reported on former staff raising widespread concerns about the arm’s-length office and claiming it has failed to move the needle on strengthening Indigenous languages and supporting research.

They also allege a toxic work environment, bullying and stalled projects, all leading to staff quitting in frustration.

The Canadian Heritage department launched a financial audit of the office. Heritage Minister Marc Miller said the allegations are serious and people must be held accountable.

Documents show his department was aware of internal strife at the Indigenous languages office for months before it launched the audit.

While Canadian Heritage has not said when the probe will be completed, it says a summary of its findings will be posted on the commissioner’s website.

St-Aubin previously served as a senior assistant deputy minister of strategic policy with Indigenous Services Canada. She will hold the position as interim commissioner of Indigenous languages for 90 days or until a new commissioner is named.

The federal order announcing the appointment said it will be effective as of July 13 — the day the former commissioner’s term expired.

Ronald Ignace, the former commissioner, has told The Canadian Press he was proud of the work done to establish the office.

In a media statement, Ignace said the office has faced challenges but “we succeeded in laying the foundation for an office capable of carrying forward this significant work.”

St-Aubin said her grandmother was the last in her family to speak Anishinaabemowin and the work to preserve Indigenous languages is deeply personal for her.

“That loss continues to resonate across generations, especially as young people leave home for work or school and may have fewer opportunities to hear, use, and learn their traditional languages,” she wrote.

“For that reason, too, I carry this responsibility with humility and gratitude.”

This report by The Canadian Press was first published July 30, 2026.

Alessia Passafiume, The Canadian Press

by The Canadian Press

New Indigenous languages commissioner says her job is to support incoming leadership

Our Community