Actions and Commitments

Call to Action # 50: Equity for Aboriginal People in the Legal System (50-52)

Revitalizing Indigenous Laws

July 8, 2021

Revitalizing Indigenous Laws is an outcome of the “Accessing Justice and Reconciliation” project, a partnership between the University of Victoria’s Indigenous Law Research Unit, Indigenous Bar Association and the Truth and Reconciliation Commission in 2012.

Legal TraditionIndigenous PartnerJustice / Wellness Program
Coast SalishSnuneymuxm First Nation
Tsleil-Waututh Nation
Social Development and Family Preservation Program
North Shore Restorative Justice Society
Tsilhqot’inTsilhqot’in National GovernmentCulture and Customs Program
Northern SecwepemcT’exelc Williams Lake Indian BandHolistic Wellness Program
CreeAseniwuche Winewak NationMamowichihitowin Wellness Program
AnishinabekChippewas of Nawash Unceded First Nation # 27Maadookii Senior’s Centre, Residential School Archives
Mi’kmaqMi’kmaq Legal Services Network, EskasoniMi’kmaq Legal Support Network

July 8, 2021 – Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations, Saskatchewan

The Revitalization of Indigenous Laws project is to update the Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations (FSIN) Framework for First Nations Justice System and revitalize Indigenous Laws of First Nations. Developed in 2013, the Framework was a response to 23 separate resolutions passed by the FSIN Chiefs-in-Assembly that mandate the establishment of First Nations justice system to strengthen individuals, families, and communities through the restoration of traditional Indigenous justice. The project will include interviews with knowledge keepers and Elders across First Nation communities in Alberta, Manitoba, and Saskatchewan to gain greater insight into Indigenous laws, practices and processes.

The Department of Justice is providing funding for $489,486 over three years through its Justice Partnership and Innovation Program. This program supports activities that respond effectively to the changing conditions affecting Canadian justice policy.