Pursuit of Independence Self Determination UN Declaration on RIGHTS of Indigenous Peoples Treaty Process

Fed. Gov’t dropped the ball… -very obvious that the gov’t has done a very poor job governing Aboriginal people -Aboriginal people today are demanding to take control of their lands, governance, affairs etc.

Govt / Economy / Social / Cultural Programs Self-Determination Defined: 1. Freedom of the people of a given area to determine their own political status; independence More simply:  the right to be sovereign (free of control) the right to control all aspects of a nation This is an INDIGENOUS RIGHT Govt / Economy / Social / Cultural Programs

2007 United Nations Declaration on Rights of Indigenous Peoples “Indigenous peoples have the right to self-determination, in accordance with international law by virtue of which they may freely determine their political status and institutions and freely pursue their economic, social, and cultural development. An integral part of this is the right to autonomy and self-government” (2007) -100 of 104 nations signed on (supported) this declaration -These 4 did not: Canada USA New Zealand Australia **2010 – Canada finally signs on (2nd last to USA)**

Self Determination today -Self Determination is the principal goal for Indigenous people globally. -in Canada this is achieved via TREATIES

How to Get Self Determination or Self Gov’t? -Start the Treaty Process here  -currently over 60 BC Nations engaged in treaty process What is the BC Treaty Commission? -created in 1992 -a neutral group that helps FN groups and Gov’t negotiate -Tripartite negotiations  Fed Govt + BC + FNs

How does the Treaty Process work? 6 Step Process: Step 1: Filing a statement of intent Step 2: Preparing for negotiation Step 3: Negotiating a Framework Agreement Step 4: Substantive Negotiation Step 5: Finalization Step 6: Implementation