Canada began the process of implementing UNDRIP unilaterally top-down, ensuring that Canada’s own version, with its own definition of self-determination, becomes entrenched in law through Bill C-15. I have concerns about the process.
For another take on Bill C-15, see Wendy Lynn Lerat s piece here.
It is an exciting but controversial time for Indian country. Many are split on whether they support Bill C-15, An Act Respecting the Implementation of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, or whether they believe it is just another tool to colonize and assimilate their peoples under Canadian law.
Bill C-15 s stated purpose is to begin the process of aligning Canadian law with the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous People (UNDRIP).
UNDRIP was developed over the span of 20 years by Indigenous peoples from around the world, including Treaty Indian leadership in Canada. In fact, many of the people who reject Bill C-15 today are the same ones who used UNDRIP to hold Canada accountable to Indigenous peoples right to free, prior and informed consent.