Historically, Indigenous communities made decisions about their membership, relying on their culture and values. The discriminatory nature of colonization and the rules under the Indian Act have disenfranchised members and fragmented families.
Slowly, through litigation, incremental improvements are being made towards more inclusive membership rules. In the interim, Indigenous communities are drafting their own membership or citizenship rules, codes or laws, incorporating their culture and values. We are helping Indigenous governments and communities with this important work.
Our work includes:
- reviewing and drafting terms of reference for membership and citizenship committees
- engaging with members, committees and leadership to understand their needs and interests
- drafting membership or citizenship rules, codes or laws and any related procedures
- reviewing and advising on existing membership and citizenship rules, laws and codes
- supporting ratification and implementation of membership and citizenship rules
- analyzing and advising on mitigating legal risk
If you would like to talk to a lawyer practicing in this area, please contact: