Indigenous Relations

Legislative & Regulatory Framework

UBCM monitors and responds to legislative changes, proposals, and other initiatives regarding First Nations that are relevant to local governments. UBCM also tracks key First Nation court decisions, supports local government participation in the treaty process, and supports negotiations outside the treaty process.

Policy Scope

The Indigenous Relations Committee oversees all policy development work related to First Nations issues including treaty negotiations, negotiations outside the treaty process, and governance reform. UBCM supports local government participation in the treaty process and provides input on general policy issues as requested or required. The Committee's other key role is to support relationship-building between First Nations and local governments through best practices and other initiatives.

Calls & Pathways to Action    The Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada (TRC) released a summary report, Honouring the Truth, Reconciling for the Future, in June 2015. The report makes 94 Calls to Action, proposing concrete steps to protect child welfare, preserve…
DRIPA guidance for local governments In 2022 UBCM led a webinar with the Ministry of Municipal Affairs to provide guidance for local governments on the Province's Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act. The session also featured a presentation from the City of…
  Pathways to Collaboration is a joint initiative of the Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM), the Province of British Columbia, and the First Nations Summit with funding from the Indigenous Business & Investment Council (IBIC). The project aims to showcase the growing number…