Inherent Right to Indigenous Governance

Overview

Aboriginal nations and organizations are at various stages in exercising local sovereignty. The Supreme Court of Canada, in the Van der Peet case, stated that the sovereignty of Aboriginal societies must be reconciled with Crown sovereignty. You will come away from the program with an understanding of what a reconciled model of governance would look like after exploring and discussing traditional forms of Aboriginal governance, while gaining a fuller understanding of the colonial forms of governance.

Successful self-governance begins with a complete understanding of the constitutional and legal framework regarding the various levels of governments. Learn from an Aboriginal case study — implementing their self-government agreement.

What does the program offer?

• Examples of traditional forms and processes of governance
• Examples of traditional political philosophies and world-view
• Transition from traditional governance to legislated governance
• Reconciling traditional and contemporary forms of governance
• A look at sovereignty and inherent right to self-determination
• Understanding of legal frameworks for various levels of governments
• Self-government case study

Who should register?

• Indigenous leaders, administrators, senior management
• First Nations, Inuit, and Métis regional or tribal executive directors
• Consultants and legal counsel who work closely with Indigenous nations and organizations
• Provincial and federal policy analysts and negotiators