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

2. 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.

3. 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

4. 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)**

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

6. 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

8. 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