What people are saying

Every person and every community plays an important role in building a better future in B.C.

Reconciliation in Action

Working together creates better outcomes for all of us. It means creating good jobs and opportunities, while protecting the environment. Learn more about how Indigenous peoples, industry and government are working together to create a brighter future.

Working together for the children – 3 Nations

Posted on October 21, 2019

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Promoting economic opportunity in the Sechelt area

Posted on October 21, 2019

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Saving wild salmon in the Broughton Archipelago

Posted on October 15, 2019

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Protecting the Sacred Headwaters of the Klappan Valley

Posted on October 15, 2019

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What is the UN Declaration?

The United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) is an international set of standards to protect the rights of Indigenous peoples. It outlines rights in all areas of life – like human rights, education, and health. The Truth and Reconciliation Commission called for the UN Declaration to be used as a framework for moving toward true and lasting reconciliation.

Why is British Columbia implementing the UN Declaration?

Implementing the UN Declaration will help Indigenous peoples, industry, communities and government work together. Together, we can build a stronger B.C., where no one gets left behind.

Over time, the new law will help:

• Increase the number of Indigenous students who graduate from high school and go on to post-secondary education.
• Raise the standard of living, so Indigenous families don’t have to live in poverty.
• Recognize Indigenous peoples’ inherent rights, interests and voices.
• End the epidemic of Indigenous children in government care.

The B.C. Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act will help create stronger and healthier communities, good jobs and economic growth.

Is British Columbia the first province to pass a law on the UN declaration?

Yes, B.C. will be the first province to put the UN Declaration into action and recognize Indigenous peoples’ human rights in B.C. law. These inherent rights are protected in Canada’s constitution (section 35) and recognized in court decision after court decision. Other places in Canada have tabled similar legislation, but they have not yet been passed.

Which laws will be changed first?

Indigenous peoples and the Province are working in partnership to design a plan to move forward. Together, we will consult with Indigenous communities on which B.C. laws to change first to align with the UN Declaration. Local government, the public and other stakeholders will be engaged as the plan is developed. Every minister in the provincial government has been mandated to review laws and policies to make sure they align with the UN Declaration. This work will continue.

What will it look like to implement the new B.C. law?

Working together means a stronger B.C. for everyone. By recognizing Indigenous rights, we set a clear path forward, help heal historic wrongs and create new opportunities. This approach has already been put into action in B.C. For example:

Child welfare: B.C. recognizes Indigenous peoples’ right to keep Indigenous children with their families and in their communities where they belong. The government is working, in partnership, to change the child welfare system. This shift aligns with the UN Declaration, which speaks to Indigenous peoples’ right to self-determination, including caring for their children.

Environmental assessment: B.C. supports Indigenous peoples’ right to take part in decisions about their lands, territories and resources as reflected in the UN Declaration and supported by many court decisions. New environmental assessment legislation provides clear roles for Indigenous peoples in the environment assessment process and decision-makings on major projects in B.C.

What is free, prior and informed consent?

Free, prior and informed consent recognizes Indigenous peoples’ rights, interests and voices. It means early, deep and meaningful involvement of Indigenous peoples on matters that affect their peoples, communities and territories. Instead of uncertainty and conflict, we can work together to build a stronger B.C., with more opportunities for Indigenous peoples, B.C. businesses, communities and families.