The TRUSU Equity Committee invites you to join an online information session about British Columbia’s Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (Declaration Act) and the First Nations Leadership Council’s call for people across B.C. to stand with First Nations and oppose amendments to the legislation.
What is the Declaration Act?
Passed unanimously in 2019, the Declaration Act establishes the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UN Declaration) as the framework for reconciliation in British Columbia. The legislation requires the Province to work in consultation and cooperation with Indigenous Peoples to bring provincial laws into alignment with the UN Declaration and to develop and implement an action plan to advance its objectives.
The Declaration Act marked an important commitment to recognizing and upholding the rights of Indigenous Peoples and building a more collaborative relationship between Indigenous Peoples and the Province.
Why Are First Nations Calling for Action?
Following recent court decisions concerning the Declaration Act, the Province announced its intention to pursue amendments to the legislation.
The First Nations Leadership Council has opposed amendments to the Declaration Act and is calling on the Province to uphold the legislation as it was originally co-developed with First Nations. Rather than changing the Declaration Act, First Nations leadership is calling for the Province to focus on its meaningful and full implementation.
TRUSU is responding to this call through our Solidarity Actions Program by helping students learn about the issue and providing opportunities to stand with First Nations in support of the Declaration Act.
Join the Online Information Session
Join the TRUSU Equity Committee online to learn more about the Declaration Act, the events that have led to the current calls for action, and how you can show your support.
During the session, we will:
- Provide an overview of the Declaration Act and its role in advancing Indigenous rights in B.C.
- Explore the recent events that have led First Nations leadership to call for action.
- Address common questions and misconceptions about the Declaration Act.
- Explain how you can add your voice in support.
This session will take place online via Microsoft Teams.