We call upon the federal, provincial, territorial, and Aboriginal governments to commit to eliminating the overrepresentation of Aboriginal youth in custody over the next decade.
Why “In Progress?”
“Bill C-75 “An Act to Amend the Criminal Code, Youth Criminal Justice Act and other Acts and to make consequential amendments to other Acts” received Royal assent on June 21, 2019. Bill C-75 includes amendments “that seek alternatives for administration of justice offences, revisions to conditions imposed at bail or sentencing stage and limit the use of custodial sentences”.
Justice Canada continues to invest in key flagship programs which support a reduction of Indigenous youth in the criminal justice system, including the:
- Youth Justice Services Funding Program
- Youth Justice Fund,
- Indigenous Courtwork Program
- Indigenous Justice Program
The provinces and territories are initiating their own reforms as well.
Indigenous Youth represent approximately 8% of the population but 47% of youth in custody.
Current Status
April 1, 2023
In Progress
Previous Status
March 1, 2023
In Progress
Latest Updates
Site last updated on October 4, 2022
Govt. Actions to Reduce Overrepresentation
New program to reduce number of Manitoba Indigenous youth in custody
Small notes with the names of children and the words ‘every child matters’ tied with orange ribbons on the fence surrounding an primary school as……
October 4, 2022
Govt. Actions to Reduce Overrepresentation
Manitoba Government provides culturally safe and supportive programming to reduce Indigenous youth involvement in the Justice System
As part of the Manitoba government’s ongoing efforts to advance reconciliation, healing and support stronger families and safer communities, the province is partnering with Marymound……
October 3, 2022
Govt. Actions to Reduce Overrepresentation
Signing Tripartite MOU to support BC First Nations Justice Strategy
Dept. of Justice, Canada – Announcement of the signing of a tripartite memorandum of understanding (MOU) between BC, Canada and BC First Nations Justice Council to……
January 20, 2022
Government Programs to improve Access to Justice…
BC First Nations Justice Strategy
“Dept. of Justice, Canada – Announcement of the signing of a tripartite memorandum of understanding (MOU) between BC, Canada and BC First Nations Justice Council……
January 20, 2022
Government Programs to improve Access to Justice…
Breaking the Cycle: An Update on the Use of Segregation and Solitary Confinement in Manitoba Youth Custody Facilities
The Manitoba Advocate for Children and Youth (MACY) is renewing her call for more mental health and cultural supports for youth in custody in the……
June 15, 2021
Government Programs to improve Access to Justice…
National Indigenous Courtworkers: Indigenous Youth-Centered Justice Project
Approx. $2.5M over 5 yrs. from from the Youth Justice Fund Support to Ryerson University for its “National Indigenous Courtworkers: Indigenous Youth-Centered Justice Project (IYJP)“.……
March 2, 2021
Govt Prog. to improve Access to Justice for Aborig. Youth
Dec 21, 2020
Identified a joint working group with the department of Families and Justice that is reviewing the intersections between these two systems and the pathways that……
December 21, 2020
Govt Prog. to improve Access to Justice for Aborig. Youth
Departments of Justice and Families create Joint Working Group
Identified a joint working group with the department of Families and Justice that is reviewing the intersections between these two systems and the pathways that……
December 21, 2020
Govt Prog. to improve Access to Justice for Aborig. Youth
Engage with Indigenous leaders to identify proactive programs
Government will engage with Indigenous leaders and communities to identify proactive programs, such as the Outland Youth Employment Program, that could provide restorative justice opportunities……
November 19, 2019
Timelines for Bill C-75
An Act to Amend the Criminal Code, Youth Criminal Justice Act and other Acts and to make consequential amendments to other Acts.
DateActionMarch 29, 2018Introduced Bill C-75 An Act to Amend the Criminal Code, Youth Criminal Justice Act and other Acts and to make consequential amendments to other……
June 21, 2019