Canadian songwriter Buffy Sainte-Maries has been relieved of her Order of Canada Award after a scandal regarding her heritage came to light in 2023.
Saint-Marie claimed that she was born to Piapot Cree parents in Saskatchewan; however, records show that she was born to white parents in the United States in Massachusetts.
The stripping of the Order of Canada took place on January 3, 2025. No official reason was given, but officials noted that they do not comment on such instances. It was only the eighth time in the history of the Order of Canada that the award was taken away after presentation.
For over 50 years, Saint-Marie has been known for her Indigenous fashion and her outspokenness over Indigenous affairs.
After the story broke in 2023 over her ancestry, Saint-Marie said, “I don’t know where I’m from or who my birth parents were, and I will never know,” adding she remains “proud of my Indigenous-American identity.”
The debate over the accusations continue with some fellow artists opposing her; while others, like her adoptive Piapot family are supportive. The Juno Awards and the Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame have yet to weigh in on the matter.
Saint-Marie has since removed the claims of being a member of the Cree Nation from her website. She has also retired from live performing.