Two youth in traditional garments dancing.

Social, Cultural and Economic Well-Being

Indigenous Peoples in B.C. fully enjoy and exercise their distinct rights to maintain, control, develop, protect and transmit their cultural heritage, traditional knowledge, languages, food systems, sciences and technologies.

Home / Annual Report / Action Item Reporting / Social, Cultural and Economic Well-Being

Actions at a glance

Icon meanings and legend

The following information explains a series of icons that are used to indicate the status of the actions outlined in the information below. Visually the icons have colours assigned to them to indicate their current status from lowest to complete (the latter of which is referred to as “transformed”).

How far along is this work?
Stage of transformation (Salmon icon)

When we think of life, it’s cycles of transformation. We think of our relations with salmon. Salmon is the chief of the water and a representation of critical thinking, taking action and overcoming obstacles. Their cycle of birth, journey, and returning to the land remind us of our reciprocal responsibility and that, with our limited time on earth, we must contribute in a meaningful way. Salmon return the earth and feed it so that other beings may thrive.

Lowest level

Stage of transformation icon (Salmon) lowest level

Started

Mid-level

Stage of transformation icon (Salmon) mid level

Planning

High Level

Stage of transformation icon (Salmon) high level

Implementation

Transformed

Stage of transformation icon (Salmon) transformed

Completed

How complicated is this work?
Complexity (Rock icon)

How much work needs to be done? How big is the rock we must carry? We call on the image of the rock, which reminds us of the physicality of our test of strength competitions. The heavy lifting is not just about brute strength but about how we position ourselves and use our whole being to lift.

Lowest level

Complexity icon (Rock) lowest level

Some
complexity

Mid-level

Complexity icon (Rock) mid level

Moderate complexity

High Level

Complexity icon (Rock) high level

Notable complexity

Transformed

Complexity icon (Rock) transformed

Complexity resolved

Are there challenges?
Risks (Medicine bundle icon)

The medicine bundle is a symbol of protection and ceremony. When it comes to risk and challenges, we are reminded of the work that our ancestors undertook to prepare mind, body, and spirit for the things creator would place in front of us. Managing risk is achieved through years of preparation, gaining knowledge, training, ceremony, and mastery.

Lowest level

Risks icon (Medicine bundle) lowest level

Some
challenges

Mid-level

Risks icon (Medicine bundle) mid level

Moderate challenges

High Level

Risks icon (Medicine bundle) high level

Notable challenges

Transformed

Risks icon (Medicine bundle) transformed

Challenges resolved

How are we working together?
Engagement (Weaving icon)

Braiding all the necessary pieces together, the land, water, and the people into spaces where deep consultation and co-operation can happen. Each strand is important, each voice is important.

About the artists

Lowest level

Engagement icon (Weaving) lowest level

Some engagement

Mid-level

Engagement icon (Weaving) mid level

Moderate engagement

High Level

Engagement icon (Weaving) high level

Notable engagement

Transformed

Engagement icon (Weaving) transformed

Full
engagement

The following information are headings used as visual labels for the information in rows below. There are seven labels associated with the seven columns in each row. The fist column is ‘Action’ – which is given as a number and if there is more detailed information provided this number will link to the details page for the specific action. The second is ‘Year’ – in which the associated action was started. And the third is ‘Description’ which contains the summary of the action and the associated B.C. government ministry or ministries. The last four columns are for the status of the action and are shown visually in the rows as icons but have their related status labeled for assistive technologies.

Action

Year

Description

How far along is this work?

How complicated is this work?

Are there challenges?

How are we working together?

  • 4.01

    4.01

    1

    Identify and undertake concrete measures to increase the literacy and numeracy achievement levels of Indigenous students at all levels of the K-12 education system, including the early years.
    Ministry of Education and Child Care
    1
    1
    3

  • 4.02

    4.02

    2

    Develop and implement an effective recruitment and retention strategy to increase the number of Indigenous teachers in the K-12 public education system.
    Ministry of Education and Child Care; Ministry of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills
    2
    2
    1

  • 4.03

    4.03

    1

    Co-develop and implement a framework for the involvement of Indigenous Education Councils in school district financial planning and reporting.
    Ministry of Education and Child Care
    3
    2
    1

  • 4.04

    4.04

    4

    Identify, develop and implement mechanisms and approaches to enable boards of education to better support Indigenous students, including increasing and ensuring equitable access to education and safe environments.
    Ministry of Education and Child Care
    0
    0
    0

  • 4.05

    4.05

    3

    Co-develop a policy framework for Indigenous post-secondary education and skills training that includes: supporting post-secondary institutions to be more culturally relevant and responsive to the needs of First Nations, Métis and Inuit learners and communities; expanding the Aboriginal Service Plan program to all 25 public post-secondary institutions; … ensuring that Indigenous learners have access to student housing that is safe, inclusive, and enables them to thrive personally, academically, and culturally; developing mechanisms for First Nations, Métis and Inuit learners and communities to play an integral role in public post-secondary institutions’ decision-making; and identifying legislative amendments needed to ensure all public post-secondary institution boards include at least one Indigenous person.
    Ministry of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills
    0
    0
    0

  • 4.06

    4.06

    1

    Promote culturally relevant sport, physical activity and recreation initiatives and opportunities that increase Indigenous engagement, participation and excellence in both traditional and mainstream sports for individuals in both urban and rural or remote areas.
    Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport
    4
    4
    4

  • 4.07

    4.07

    5

    Demonstrate a new and more flexible funding model and partnership approach that supports First Nations to plan, design and deliver mental health and wellness services across a full continuum of care and to address the social determinants of health and wellness.
    Ministry of Health, Ministry of Mental Health and Addictions
    0
    0
    0

  • 4.08

    4.08

    3

    In alignment with the tripartite health plans and agreements, continue to strengthen and evolve the First Nation health governance structure in B.C. to ensure First Nations are supported to participate as full and equal partners in decision-making and service delivery at local, regional and provincial levels, and engage First Nations and the Government of Canada on the need for legislation as envisioned in the tripartite health plans and agreements.
    Ministry of Health, Ministry of Mental Health and Addictions
    0
    0
    0

  • 4.09

    4.09

    3

    As a part of the implementation of the Accessible British Columbia Act, support the identification, prevention and removal of barriers for Indigenous persons with disabilities. This includes ensuring that the development of accessibility standards considers the rights recognized and affirmed by the UN Declaration.
    Ministry of Social Development and Poverty Reduction
    0
    0
    0

  • 4.10

    4.10

    1

    Prioritize the implementation of Primary Care Networks, the First Nations-led Primary Health Care Initiative, and other primary care priorities, embedding Indigenous perspectives and priorities into models of care to increase Indigenous Peoples’ access to primary care and other health services, and to improve cultural safety and quality of care.
    Ministry of Health
    3
    3
    3

  • 4.11

    4.11

    2

    Increase the availability, accessibility and the continuum of Indigenous-led and community-based social services and supports that are trauma-informed, culturally safe and relevant, and address a range of holistic wellness needs for those who are in crisis, at-risk or have experienced violence, trauma and/or significant loss.
    Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General; Ministry of Health; Ministry of Mental Health and Addictions
    2
    3
    3

  • 4.12

    4.12

    1

    Address the disproportionate impacts of the overdose public health emergency on Indigenous Peoples by: -applying to the Government of Canada to decriminalize simple possession of small amounts of illicit drugs for personal use, and continuing campaigns and other measures to help end the stigma and shame associated with addiction; – expanding prescribed safer supply and other harm reduction measures; and – ensuring accessibility of recovery beds, and evidence-based, culturally relevant and safe services to meet the needs of Indigenous Peoples, including youth.
    Ministry of Mental Health and Addictions; Ministry of Attorney General; Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General
    3
    3
    1

  • 4.13

    4.13

    3

    Increase the availability and accessibility of culturally safe substance use services, including through the renovation and construction of Indigenous-run treatment centres and the integration of landbased and traditional approaches to healing.
    Ministry of Mental Health and Addictions, Ministry of Health
    0
    0
    0

  • 4.14

    4.14

    1

    Increase the availability and accessibility of resources to Indigenous partners in COVID-19 pandemic health and wellness planning and response, including the implementation of the Rural, Remote, First Nations and Indigenous COVID-19 Framework15 to ensure access for all Indigenous Peoples to immediate and culturally safe and relevant care closer to home.
    Ministry of Health; Ministry of Mental Health and Addictions
    2
    3
    3

  • 4.15

    4.15

    2

    Incorporate Indigenous experiences and knowledge of poverty and well-being into ongoing poverty reduction efforts and the 2024 Poverty Reduction Strategy. The strategy will recognize the ongoing impacts of colonialism and include Indigenous-identified actions and progress measures.
    Ministry of Social Development and Poverty Reduction
    3
    3
    1

  • 4.16

    4.16

    2

    Co-develop a B.C.-specific fiscal framework, in partnership with First Nations, Métis, and Inuit, and in consultation with key Indigenous organizations, to support and move forward with jurisdiction over child and family services.
    Ministry of Children and Family Development
    2
    2
    1

  • 4.17

    4.17

    1

    In collaboration with B.C. First Nations, Métis Peoples, and Inuit, continue implementing changes to substantially reduce the number of Indigenous children and youth in care through increased prevention and family support services at all stages of contact with the child welfare system.
    Ministry of Children and Family Development
    3
    3
    2

  • 4.18

    4.18

    2

    As committed to in the First Nations Children and Youth in Care Protocol, co-develop and implement measures to support improved education outcomes of current and former First Nation children and youth in care, including meaningful data collection to inform policy planning and service delivery.
    Ministry of Education and Child Care; Ministry of Children and Family Development; Ministry of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills
    3
    3
    3

  • 4.19

    4.19

    2

    As part of a commitment to an inclusive, universal childcare system, work in collaboration with B.C. First Nations, Métis, and Inuit Peoples to implement a distinctions-based approach to support and move forward jurisdiction over child care for First Nations, Métis and Inuit Peoples who want and need it in B.C.
    Ministry of Education and Child Care
    3
    3
    1

  • 4.20

    4.20

    1

    Advance a collaborative, whole-of-government approach in the partnership between the Métis Nation of British Columbia and the Province of B.C., respecting Métis self-determination and working to establish more flexibility and sustainability in funding.
    Ministry of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation
    3
    3
    1

  • 4.21

    4.21

    1

    Bring together key Indigenous urban leaders to create a provincial urban Indigenous advisory table to develop and implement a 5-year plan to address the priorities of urban Indigenous Peoples, including a focus on Elders, youth, children, women, men, 2SLGBTQQIA+ and persons with disabilities.
    Ministry of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation; Ministry of Social Development and Poverty Reduction
    2
    3
    1

  • 4.22

    4.22

    3

    Ministers and executives across the provincial government social sector will meet annually with urban Indigenous service organization leaders, such as the provincial urban Indigenous advisory table (see Action 4.21), to discuss successes, innovations, and challenges of supporting the social, cultural and economic needs of urban Indigenous Peoples.
    Ministry of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation
    0
    0
    0

  • 4.23

    4.23

    3

    Undertake a cross-government review of provincial supports and services for Indigenous Peoples in urban settings and develop a plan with clear timelines that will provide greater collaboration and coordination to meet needs.
    Ministry of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation
    0
    0
    0

  • 4.24

    4.24

    4

    Expand support to Aboriginal Friendship Centres and other urban Indigenous organizations that serve the needs of urban Indigenous people in B.C. while also acknowledging that Aboriginal Friendship Centres and other urban Indigenous organizations play a vital role for those that wish to connect to their cultures and traditions.
    Ministry of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation
    0
    0
    0

  • 4.25

    4.25

    1

    Work with Indigenous Peoples to build more on- and off-reserve housing and pursue new federal contributions.
    Ministry of Housing; Ministry of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation
    3
    3
    1

  • 4.26

    4.26

    1

    Strengthen the health and wellness partnership between Métis Nation British Columbia, the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Mental Health and Addictions, and support opportunities to identify and work to address shared Métis health and wellness priorities.
    Ministry of Health; Ministry of Mental Health and Addictions
    3
    3
    3

  • 4.27

    4.27

    3

    Review the principles and processes that guide the naming of municipalities and regional districts, and evolve practices to foster reconciliation in local processes.
    Ministry of Municipal Affairs
    0
    0
    0

  • 4.28

    4.28

    2

    Draft a report with recommendations for how BC Parks can better reflect Indigenous Peoples’ histories and cultures in provincial parks and protected areas.
    Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Strategy
    4
    1
    1

  • 4.29

    4.29

    3

    Establish an Indigenous-led working group to develop a strategy for the revitalization of Indigenous languages in B.C., including potential legislative supports.
    Ministry of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation, Ministry of Education and Child Care, Ministry of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills
    0
    0
    0

  • 4.30

    4.30

    1

    Support Indigenous language revitalization through sustainable funding.
    Ministry of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation; Ministry of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills
    3
    1
    3

  • 4.31

    4.31

    2

    Develop full-course offerings in First Nation languages and implement the educational Calls to Action from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission in the K-12 education system.
    Ministry of Education and Child Care
    1
    1
    3

  • 4.32

    4.32

    2

    Co-develop a K-12 First Nations Language Policy and associated implementation plan for the public education system with the First Nations Education Steering Committee, including ensuring that the language and culture of the local First Nation(s) on whose territory(ies) a board of education operates schools are the ones primarily reflected in any First Nations language and culture programs and services of the board.
    Ministry of Education and Child Care
    1
    1
    3

  • 4.33

    4.33

    4

    Co-develop a policy framework to support repatriation initiatives.
    Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport
    0
    0
    0

  • 4.34

    4.34

    5

    Reset the relationship between the Royal BC Museum and Indigenous Peoples in B.C. by ensuring that Indigenous voices are prioritized and inform the development of narratives, exhibitions and learning programs.
    Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport
    0
    0
    0

  • 4.35

    4.35

    1

    Work with First Nations to reform the Heritage Conservation Act to align with the UN Declaration, including shared decision-making and the protection of First Nations cultural, spiritual, and heritage sites and objects.
    Ministry of Forests; Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport
    3
    3
    3

  • 4.36

    4.36

    1

    Ensure every First Nations community in B.C. has high-speed internet services.
    Ministry of Citizens’ Services
    3
    3
    1

  • 4.37

    4.37

    1

    Provide funding to assist Indigenous tourism businesses that have been financially impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, in order to further support recovery of the Indigenous tourism sector in B.C.
    Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport
    4
    4
    4

  • 4.38

    4.38

    2

    Provide investments to Indigenous Tourism B.C. to support Indigenous tourism, Indigenous job creation, preservation of Indigenous languages, celebration of Indigenous cultures and the stewardship of territories, and to tell the stories of Indigenous Peoples in B.C. in their own words.
    Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport
    3
    3
    4

  • 4.39

    4.39

    2

    Work with the Province’s Economic Trusts and First Nation partners to develop a mechanism that ensures inclusion of First Nations at a regional decision-making level.
    Ministry of Jobs, Economic Development and Innovation
    2
    2
    1

  • 4.40

    4.40

    2

    Ensure Indigenous collaboration in the development and implementation of the BC Economic Plan, including a technology and innovation roadmap.
    Ministry of Jobs, Economic Development and Innovation
    3
    3
    1

  • 4.41

    4.41

    2

    Work with First Nations, Métis chartered communities and urban Indigenous organizations to provide funding for self-determined, community-led programs for Indigenous Peoples to upgrade skills, obtain credentials, secure employment, and develop and support community economies.
    Ministry of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills; Ministry of Social Development and Poverty Reduction
    3
    3
    2

  • 4.42

    4.42

    3

    Co-develop economic metrics to help evaluate progress as reconciliation is advanced. The baseline data will begin to address the persistent gap in Indigenous-specific economic metrics and through this co-designed effort, build a comprehensive set of data to measure Indigenous economic well-being and track progress over time.
    Jobs, Economic Development and Innovation, Ministry of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation
    0
    0
    0

  • 4.43

    4.43

    1

    Co-develop recommendations on strategic policies and initiatives for clean and sustainable energy. This includes identifying and supporting First Nations-led clean energy opportunities related to CleanBC, the Comprehensive Review of BC Hydro, and the BC Utilities Commission Inquiry on the Regulation of Indigenous Utilities.
    Ministry of Energy, Mines, and Low Carbon Innovation
    3
    3
    1

  • 4.44

    4.44

    2

    Review, evaluate and improve B.C.’s Indigenous Youth Internship Program.
    BC Public Service Agency
    2
    2
    1

  • 4.45

    4.45

    1

    Prioritize and increase the number of technology sector training opportunities for Indigenous Peoples and other groups currently under-represented in B.C.’s technology sector.
    Ministry of Jobs, Economic Development and Innovation
    3
    3
    1

  • 4.46

    4.46

    4

    Improve economic supports for Indigenous workers and employers by increasing access for Indigenous clients to the Ministry of Labour’s services and programs, including employment standards, workers’ compensation and workplace safety.
    Ministry of Labour
    0
    0
    0

  • 4.47

    4.47

    2

    Advance a collaborative approach to cannabis-related governance and jurisdiction between First Nations and the Province that reflects common objectives to protect youth, prioritize public health and safety, strengthen First Nations governance capacity and secure economic benefits for First Nations.
    Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General
    2
    2
    3

  • 4.48

    4.48

    1

    Work with the B.C. Indigenous Advisory Council on Agriculture and Food and other Indigenous partners to identify opportunities to strengthen Indigenous food systems and increase Indigenous participation in the agriculture and food sector.
    Ministry of Agriculture and Food
    3
    2
    2

  • 4.49

    4.49

    3

    Review existing provincial mandates to enhance treaty and self-governing Nations’ fiscal capacity to deliver services to their citizens.
    Ministry of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation
    0
    0
    0

  • Action

    4.01

    4.01

    Year

    1

    Ministry

    Ministry of Education and Child Care

    Description

    Identify and undertake concrete measures to increase the literacy and numeracy achievement levels of Indigenous students at all levels of the K-12 education system, including the early years.

    How far along
    is this work?

    1

    How complicated
    is this work?

    1

    Are there
    challenges?

    3

    How are we
    working together?

  • Action

    4.02

    4.02

    Year

    2

    Ministry

    Ministry of Education and Child Care; Ministry of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills

    Description

    Develop and implement an effective recruitment and retention strategy to increase the number of Indigenous teachers in the K-12 public education system.

    How far along
    is this work?

    2

    How complicated
    is this work?

    2

    Are there
    challenges?

    1

    How are we
    working together?

  • Action

    4.03

    4.03

    Year

    1

    Ministry

    Ministry of Education and Child Care

    Description

    Co-develop and implement a framework for the involvement of Indigenous Education Councils in school district financial planning and reporting.

    How far along
    is this work?

    3

    How complicated
    is this work?

    2

    Are there
    challenges?

    1

    How are we
    working together?

  • Action

    4.04

    4.04

    Year

    4

    Ministry

    Ministry of Education and Child Care

    Description

    Identify, develop and implement mechanisms and approaches to enable boards of education to better support Indigenous students, including increasing and ensuring equitable access to education and safe environments.

    How far along
    is this work?

    0

    How complicated
    is this work?

    0

    Are there
    challenges?

    0

    How are we
    working together?

  • Action

    4.05

    4.05

    Year

    3

    Ministry

    Ministry of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills

    Description

    Co-develop a policy framework for Indigenous post-secondary education and skills training that includes: supporting post-secondary institutions to be more culturally relevant and responsive to the needs of First Nations, Métis and Inuit learners and communities; expanding the Aboriginal Service Plan program to all 25 public post-secondary institutions; … ensuring that Indigenous learners have access to student housing that is safe, inclusive, and enables them to thrive personally, academically, and culturally; developing mechanisms for First Nations, Métis and Inuit learners and communities to play an integral role in public post-secondary institutions’ decision-making; and identifying legislative amendments needed to ensure all public post-secondary institution boards include at least one Indigenous person.

    How far along
    is this work?

    0

    How complicated
    is this work?

    0

    Are there
    challenges?

    0

    How are we
    working together?

  • Action

    4.06

    4.06

    Year

    1

    Ministry

    Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport

    Description

    Promote culturally relevant sport, physical activity and recreation initiatives and opportunities that increase Indigenous engagement, participation and excellence in both traditional and mainstream sports for individuals in both urban and rural or remote areas.

    How far along
    is this work?

    4

    How complicated
    is this work?

    4

    Are there
    challenges?

    4

    How are we
    working together?

  • Action

    4.07

    4.07

    Year

    5

    Ministry

    Ministry of Health, Ministry of Mental Health and Addictions

    Description

    Demonstrate a new and more flexible funding model and partnership approach that supports First Nations to plan, design and deliver mental health and wellness services across a full continuum of care and to address the social determinants of health and wellness.

    How far along
    is this work?

    0

    How complicated
    is this work?

    0

    Are there
    challenges?

    0

    How are we
    working together?

  • Action

    4.08

    4.08

    Year

    3

    Ministry

    Ministry of Health, Ministry of Mental Health and Addictions

    Description

    In alignment with the tripartite health plans and agreements, continue to strengthen and evolve the First Nation health governance structure in B.C. to ensure First Nations are supported to participate as full and equal partners in decision-making and service delivery at local, regional and provincial levels, and engage First Nations and the Government of Canada on the need for legislation as envisioned in the tripartite health plans and agreements.

    How far along
    is this work?

    0

    How complicated
    is this work?

    0

    Are there
    challenges?

    0

    How are we
    working together?

  • Action

    4.09

    4.09

    Year

    3

    Ministry

    Ministry of Social Development and Poverty Reduction

    Description

    As a part of the implementation of the Accessible British Columbia Act, support the identification, prevention and removal of barriers for Indigenous persons with disabilities. This includes ensuring that the development of accessibility standards considers the rights recognized and affirmed by the UN Declaration.

    How far along
    is this work?

    0

    How complicated
    is this work?

    0

    Are there
    challenges?

    0

    How are we
    working together?

  • Action

    4.10

    4.10

    Year

    1

    Ministry

    Ministry of Health

    Description

    Prioritize the implementation of Primary Care Networks, the First Nations-led Primary Health Care Initiative, and other primary care priorities, embedding Indigenous perspectives and priorities into models of care to increase Indigenous Peoples’ access to primary care and other health services, and to improve cultural safety and quality of care.

    How far along
    is this work?

    3

    How complicated
    is this work?

    3

    Are there
    challenges?

    3

    How are we
    working together?

  • Action

    4.11

    4.11

    Year

    2

    Ministry

    Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General; Ministry of Health; Ministry of Mental Health and Addictions

    Description

    Increase the availability, accessibility and the continuum of Indigenous-led and community-based social services and supports that are trauma-informed, culturally safe and relevant, and address a range of holistic wellness needs for those who are in crisis, at-risk or have experienced violence, trauma and/or significant loss.

    How far along
    is this work?

    2

    How complicated
    is this work?

    3

    Are there
    challenges?

    3

    How are we
    working together?

  • Action

    4.12

    4.12

    Year

    1

    Ministry

    Ministry of Mental Health and Addictions; Ministry of Attorney General; Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General

    Description

    Address the disproportionate impacts of the overdose public health emergency on Indigenous Peoples by: -applying to the Government of Canada to decriminalize simple possession of small amounts of illicit drugs for personal use, and continuing campaigns and other measures to help end the stigma and shame associated with addiction; – expanding prescribed safer supply and other harm reduction measures; and – ensuring accessibility of recovery beds, and evidence-based, culturally relevant and safe services to meet the needs of Indigenous Peoples, including youth.

    How far along
    is this work?

    3

    How complicated
    is this work?

    3

    Are there
    challenges?

    1

    How are we
    working together?

  • Action

    4.13

    4.13

    Year

    3

    Ministry

    Ministry of Mental Health and Addictions, Ministry of Health

    Description

    Increase the availability and accessibility of culturally safe substance use services, including through the renovation and construction of Indigenous-run treatment centres and the integration of landbased and traditional approaches to healing.

    How far along
    is this work?

    0

    How complicated
    is this work?

    0

    Are there
    challenges?

    0

    How are we
    working together?

  • Action

    4.14

    4.14

    Year

    1

    Ministry

    Ministry of Health; Ministry of Mental Health and Addictions

    Description

    Increase the availability and accessibility of resources to Indigenous partners in COVID-19 pandemic health and wellness planning and response, including the implementation of the Rural, Remote, First Nations and Indigenous COVID-19 Framework15 to ensure access for all Indigenous Peoples to immediate and culturally safe and relevant care closer to home.

    How far along
    is this work?

    2

    How complicated
    is this work?

    3

    Are there
    challenges?

    3

    How are we
    working together?

  • Action

    4.15

    4.15

    Year

    2

    Ministry

    Ministry of Social Development and Poverty Reduction

    Description

    Incorporate Indigenous experiences and knowledge of poverty and well-being into ongoing poverty reduction efforts and the 2024 Poverty Reduction Strategy. The strategy will recognize the ongoing impacts of colonialism and include Indigenous-identified actions and progress measures.

    How far along
    is this work?

    3

    How complicated
    is this work?

    3

    Are there
    challenges?

    1

    How are we
    working together?

  • Action

    4.16

    4.16

    Year

    2

    Ministry

    Ministry of Children and Family Development

    Description

    Co-develop a B.C.-specific fiscal framework, in partnership with First Nations, Métis, and Inuit, and in consultation with key Indigenous organizations, to support and move forward with jurisdiction over child and family services.

    How far along
    is this work?

    2

    How complicated
    is this work?

    2

    Are there
    challenges?

    1

    How are we
    working together?

  • Action

    4.17

    4.17

    Year

    1

    Ministry

    Ministry of Children and Family Development

    Description

    In collaboration with B.C. First Nations, Métis Peoples, and Inuit, continue implementing changes to substantially reduce the number of Indigenous children and youth in care through increased prevention and family support services at all stages of contact with the child welfare system.

    How far along
    is this work?

    3

    How complicated
    is this work?

    3

    Are there
    challenges?

    2

    How are we
    working together?

  • Action

    4.18

    4.18

    Year

    2

    Ministry

    Ministry of Education and Child Care; Ministry of Children and Family Development; Ministry of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills

    Description

    As committed to in the First Nations Children and Youth in Care Protocol, co-develop and implement measures to support improved education outcomes of current and former First Nation children and youth in care, including meaningful data collection to inform policy planning and service delivery.

    How far along
    is this work?

    3

    How complicated
    is this work?

    3

    Are there
    challenges?

    3

    How are we
    working together?

  • Action

    4.19

    4.19

    Year

    2

    Ministry

    Ministry of Education and Child Care

    Description

    As part of a commitment to an inclusive, universal childcare system, work in collaboration with B.C. First Nations, Métis, and Inuit Peoples to implement a distinctions-based approach to support and move forward jurisdiction over child care for First Nations, Métis and Inuit Peoples who want and need it in B.C.

    How far along
    is this work?

    3

    How complicated
    is this work?

    3

    Are there
    challenges?

    1

    How are we
    working together?

  • Action

    4.20

    4.20

    Year

    1

    Ministry

    Ministry of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation

    Description

    Advance a collaborative, whole-of-government approach in the partnership between the Métis Nation of British Columbia and the Province of B.C., respecting Métis self-determination and working to establish more flexibility and sustainability in funding.

    How far along
    is this work?

    3

    How complicated
    is this work?

    3

    Are there
    challenges?

    1

    How are we
    working together?

  • Action

    4.21

    4.21

    Year

    1

    Ministry

    Ministry of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation; Ministry of Social Development and Poverty Reduction

    Description

    Bring together key Indigenous urban leaders to create a provincial urban Indigenous advisory table to develop and implement a 5-year plan to address the priorities of urban Indigenous Peoples, including a focus on Elders, youth, children, women, men, 2SLGBTQQIA+ and persons with disabilities.

    How far along
    is this work?

    2

    How complicated
    is this work?

    3

    Are there
    challenges?

    1

    How are we
    working together?

  • Action

    4.22

    4.22

    Year

    3

    Ministry

    Ministry of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation

    Description

    Ministers and executives across the provincial government social sector will meet annually with urban Indigenous service organization leaders, such as the provincial urban Indigenous advisory table (see Action 4.21), to discuss successes, innovations, and challenges of supporting the social, cultural and economic needs of urban Indigenous Peoples.

    How far along
    is this work?

    0

    How complicated
    is this work?

    0

    Are there
    challenges?

    0

    How are we
    working together?

  • Action

    4.23

    4.23

    Year

    3

    Ministry

    Ministry of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation

    Description

    Undertake a cross-government review of provincial supports and services for Indigenous Peoples in urban settings and develop a plan with clear timelines that will provide greater collaboration and coordination to meet needs.

    How far along
    is this work?

    0

    How complicated
    is this work?

    0

    Are there
    challenges?

    0

    How are we
    working together?

  • Action

    4.24

    4.24

    Year

    4

    Ministry

    Ministry of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation

    Description

    Expand support to Aboriginal Friendship Centres and other urban Indigenous organizations that serve the needs of urban Indigenous people in B.C. while also acknowledging that Aboriginal Friendship Centres and other urban Indigenous organizations play a vital role for those that wish to connect to their cultures and traditions.

    How far along
    is this work?

    0

    How complicated
    is this work?

    0

    Are there
    challenges?

    0

    How are we
    working together?

  • Action

    4.25

    4.25

    Year

    1

    Ministry

    Ministry of Housing; Ministry of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation

    Description

    Work with Indigenous Peoples to build more on- and off-reserve housing and pursue new federal contributions.

    How far along
    is this work?

    3

    How complicated
    is this work?

    3

    Are there
    challenges?

    1

    How are we
    working together?

  • Action

    4.26

    4.26

    Year

    1

    Ministry

    Ministry of Health; Ministry of Mental Health and Addictions

    Description

    Strengthen the health and wellness partnership between Métis Nation British Columbia, the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Mental Health and Addictions, and support opportunities to identify and work to address shared Métis health and wellness priorities.

    How far along
    is this work?

    3

    How complicated
    is this work?

    3

    Are there
    challenges?

    3

    How are we
    working together?

  • Action

    4.27

    4.27

    Year

    3

    Ministry

    Ministry of Municipal Affairs

    Description

    Review the principles and processes that guide the naming of municipalities and regional districts, and evolve practices to foster reconciliation in local processes.

    How far along
    is this work?

    0

    How complicated
    is this work?

    0

    Are there
    challenges?

    0

    How are we
    working together?

  • Action

    4.28

    4.28

    Year

    2

    Ministry

    Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Strategy

    Description

    Draft a report with recommendations for how BC Parks can better reflect Indigenous Peoples’ histories and cultures in provincial parks and protected areas.

    How far along
    is this work?

    4

    How complicated
    is this work?

    1

    Are there
    challenges?

    1

    How are we
    working together?

  • Action

    4.29

    4.29

    Year

    3

    Ministry

    Ministry of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation, Ministry of Education and Child Care, Ministry of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills

    Description

    Establish an Indigenous-led working group to develop a strategy for the revitalization of Indigenous languages in B.C., including potential legislative supports.

    How far along
    is this work?

    0

    How complicated
    is this work?

    0

    Are there
    challenges?

    0

    How are we
    working together?

  • Action

    4.30

    4.30

    Year

    1

    Ministry

    Ministry of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation; Ministry of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills

    Description

    Support Indigenous language revitalization through sustainable funding.

    How far along
    is this work?

    3

    How complicated
    is this work?

    1

    Are there
    challenges?

    3

    How are we
    working together?

  • Action

    4.31

    4.31

    Year

    2

    Ministry

    Ministry of Education and Child Care

    Description

    Develop full-course offerings in First Nation languages and implement the educational Calls to Action from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission in the K-12 education system.

    How far along
    is this work?

    1

    How complicated
    is this work?

    1

    Are there
    challenges?

    3

    How are we
    working together?

  • Action

    4.32

    4.32

    Year

    2

    Ministry

    Ministry of Education and Child Care

    Description

    Co-develop a K-12 First Nations Language Policy and associated implementation plan for the public education system with the First Nations Education Steering Committee, including ensuring that the language and culture of the local First Nation(s) on whose territory(ies) a board of education operates schools are the ones primarily reflected in any First Nations language and culture programs and services of the board.

    How far along
    is this work?

    1

    How complicated
    is this work?

    1

    Are there
    challenges?

    3

    How are we
    working together?

  • Action

    4.33

    4.33

    Year

    4

    Ministry

    Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport

    Description

    Co-develop a policy framework to support repatriation initiatives.

    How far along
    is this work?

    0

    How complicated
    is this work?

    0

    Are there
    challenges?

    0

    How are we
    working together?

  • Action

    4.34

    4.34

    Year

    5

    Ministry

    Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport

    Description

    Reset the relationship between the Royal BC Museum and Indigenous Peoples in B.C. by ensuring that Indigenous voices are prioritized and inform the development of narratives, exhibitions and learning programs.

    How far along
    is this work?

    0

    How complicated
    is this work?

    0

    Are there
    challenges?

    0

    How are we
    working together?

  • Action

    4.35

    4.35

    Year

    1

    Ministry

    Ministry of Forests; Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport

    Description

    Work with First Nations to reform the Heritage Conservation Act to align with the UN Declaration, including shared decision-making and the protection of First Nations cultural, spiritual, and heritage sites and objects.

    How far along
    is this work?

    3

    How complicated
    is this work?

    3

    Are there
    challenges?

    3

    How are we
    working together?

  • Action

    4.36

    4.36

    Year

    1

    Ministry

    Ministry of Citizens’ Services

    Description

    Ensure every First Nations community in B.C. has high-speed internet services.

    How far along
    is this work?

    3

    How complicated
    is this work?

    3

    Are there
    challenges?

    1

    How are we
    working together?

  • Action

    4.37

    4.37

    Year

    1

    Ministry

    Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport

    Description

    Provide funding to assist Indigenous tourism businesses that have been financially impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, in order to further support recovery of the Indigenous tourism sector in B.C.

    How far along
    is this work?

    4

    How complicated
    is this work?

    4

    Are there
    challenges?

    4

    How are we
    working together?

  • Action

    4.38

    4.38

    Year

    2

    Ministry

    Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport

    Description

    Provide investments to Indigenous Tourism B.C. to support Indigenous tourism, Indigenous job creation, preservation of Indigenous languages, celebration of Indigenous cultures and the stewardship of territories, and to tell the stories of Indigenous Peoples in B.C. in their own words.

    How far along
    is this work?

    3

    How complicated
    is this work?

    3

    Are there
    challenges?

    4

    How are we
    working together?

  • Action

    4.39

    4.39

    Year

    2

    Ministry

    Ministry of Jobs, Economic Development and Innovation

    Description

    Work with the Province’s Economic Trusts and First Nation partners to develop a mechanism that ensures inclusion of First Nations at a regional decision-making level.

    How far along
    is this work?

    2

    How complicated
    is this work?

    2

    Are there
    challenges?

    1

    How are we
    working together?

  • Action

    4.40

    4.40

    Year

    2

    Ministry

    Ministry of Jobs, Economic Development and Innovation

    Description

    Ensure Indigenous collaboration in the development and implementation of the BC Economic Plan, including a technology and innovation roadmap.

    How far along
    is this work?

    3

    How complicated
    is this work?

    3

    Are there
    challenges?

    1

    How are we
    working together?

  • Action

    4.41

    4.41

    Year

    2

    Ministry

    Ministry of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills; Ministry of Social Development and Poverty Reduction

    Description

    Work with First Nations, Métis chartered communities and urban Indigenous organizations to provide funding for self-determined, community-led programs for Indigenous Peoples to upgrade skills, obtain credentials, secure employment, and develop and support community economies.

    How far along
    is this work?

    3

    How complicated
    is this work?

    3

    Are there
    challenges?

    2

    How are we
    working together?

  • Action

    4.42

    4.42

    Year

    3

    Ministry

    Jobs, Economic Development and Innovation, Ministry of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation

    Description

    Co-develop economic metrics to help evaluate progress as reconciliation is advanced. The baseline data will begin to address the persistent gap in Indigenous-specific economic metrics and through this co-designed effort, build a comprehensive set of data to measure Indigenous economic well-being and track progress over time.

    How far along
    is this work?

    0

    How complicated
    is this work?

    0

    Are there
    challenges?

    0

    How are we
    working together?

  • Action

    4.43

    4.43

    Year

    1

    Ministry

    Ministry of Energy, Mines, and Low Carbon Innovation

    Description

    Co-develop recommendations on strategic policies and initiatives for clean and sustainable energy. This includes identifying and supporting First Nations-led clean energy opportunities related to CleanBC, the Comprehensive Review of BC Hydro, and the BC Utilities Commission Inquiry on the Regulation of Indigenous Utilities.

    How far along
    is this work?

    3

    How complicated
    is this work?

    3

    Are there
    challenges?

    1

    How are we
    working together?

  • Action

    4.44

    4.44

    Year

    2

    Ministry

    BC Public Service Agency

    Description

    Review, evaluate and improve B.C.’s Indigenous Youth Internship Program.

    How far along
    is this work?

    2

    How complicated
    is this work?

    2

    Are there
    challenges?

    1

    How are we
    working together?

  • Action

    4.45

    4.45

    Year

    1

    Ministry

    Ministry of Jobs, Economic Development and Innovation

    Description

    Prioritize and increase the number of technology sector training opportunities for Indigenous Peoples and other groups currently under-represented in B.C.’s technology sector.

    How far along
    is this work?

    3

    How complicated
    is this work?

    3

    Are there
    challenges?

    1

    How are we
    working together?

  • Action

    4.46

    4.46

    Year

    4

    Ministry

    Ministry of Labour

    Description

    Improve economic supports for Indigenous workers and employers by increasing access for Indigenous clients to the Ministry of Labour’s services and programs, including employment standards, workers’ compensation and workplace safety.

    How far along
    is this work?

    0

    How complicated
    is this work?

    0

    Are there
    challenges?

    0

    How are we
    working together?

  • Action

    4.47

    4.47

    Year

    2

    Ministry

    Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General

    Description

    Advance a collaborative approach to cannabis-related governance and jurisdiction between First Nations and the Province that reflects common objectives to protect youth, prioritize public health and safety, strengthen First Nations governance capacity and secure economic benefits for First Nations.

    How far along
    is this work?

    2

    How complicated
    is this work?

    2

    Are there
    challenges?

    3

    How are we
    working together?

  • Action

    4.48

    4.48

    Year

    1

    Ministry

    Ministry of Agriculture and Food

    Description

    Work with the B.C. Indigenous Advisory Council on Agriculture and Food and other Indigenous partners to identify opportunities to strengthen Indigenous food systems and increase Indigenous participation in the agriculture and food sector.

    How far along
    is this work?

    3

    How complicated
    is this work?

    2

    Are there
    challenges?

    2

    How are we
    working together?

  • Action

    4.49

    4.49

    Year

    3

    Ministry

    Ministry of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation

    Description

    Review existing provincial mandates to enhance treaty and self-governing Nations’ fiscal capacity to deliver services to their citizens.

    How far along
    is this work?

    0

    How complicated
    is this work?

    0

    Are there
    challenges?

    0

    How are we
    working together?

View all actions at a glance

Additional information

Methodology and limitations

The Declaration Act Annual Report was developed using a standardized process which involved participation across the provincial government and engagement with Indigenous partners.

Lead ministries identified when each of the 89 actions in the Declaration Act Action Plan would begin substantial implementation (by year) and begin reporting. This was determined by considering logical sequencing of actions that build upon each other, balancing actions with other commitments, and overall balancing of action plan themes, ministries, sectors, and focus areas.

Action content was based on information reported by lead and supporting ministries, often in partnership with Indigenous organizations they work with. The reporting information was then used to prepare both the icons and the detailed reporting presented.

The resulting reporting information was adapted based on input from internal provincial committee processes and from the Alliance of BC Modern Treaty Nations, the First Nations Leadership Council, and Métis Nation British Columbia.

The stories profiled throughout this website were curated based on a consistent set of criteria: they tell a story that involves human impact; there is balance across action plan themes, sectors, geographic region, and lead Ministries; consideration is paid to a distinctions basis; there is substantive progress in advancing the action; and there is an ability to develop content within the project timelines.

There are limitations resulting from the methods used to develop the reporting content, and inherent to undertaking a project of this nature. These limitations include:

  • Indicators are mainly process and activity-focused, and as yet not reflective of longer, more meaningful, or more transformational outcomes.
  • Standardization of report content, including indicators, was balanced with the work of co-development.
  • The project benefitted from learning while doing, meaning that the standardized template and associated dashboard calculations and representation were adapted throughout the process.

Icon Calculation

The calculation of the four icons used the following methods:

How far along is this work?

Determined using standard project schedule stages:

  • Started
  • Planning
  • Implementing
  • Complete

How complicated is this work?

Calculation: number of identified subtasks for each action + number of Ministries involved in each action + number of years in the planning and implementing stages for each action.

Categorization:

  • Some Complexity: score of 4 or less
  • Moderate Complexity: score of 5-6
  • Notable Complexity: score of 7+

Are there challenges?

Calculation: based on “risks” and “obstacles” identified for each action.

How are we working together?

Calculation: yes/no responses to the following questions for each action:

  1. Partner(s) identified?
  2. Consultation and co-operation plan or approach is in place or in development with Indigenous partners?
  3. Partner(s) involved in report development/co-development?
  4. Input has been gathered/meetings have been held?

Categorization:

  • No engagement: score of 0
  • Some engagement: score of 1-2
  • Moderate engagement: score of 3-4
  • Notable engagement: score of 5

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