Active learning ideas
This topic traces the journey of Indigenous communities toward self-government, the inherent right to manage their own affairs, lands, and resources. Students will examine successful models, such as the Nisga'a Final Agreement and the creation of Nunavut, as well as the ongoing challenges of negotiating these agreements with federal and provincial governments.
Activity 01
Small groups research a specific self-government agreement (e.g., Westbank First Nation, Nisga'a, Nunatsiavut). They must identify which powers the community now controls (e.g., education, taxes, land use) and how it has benefited them.
What does self-government mean for Indigenous communities?
Activity 02
Pairs of students act as negotiators for an Indigenous nation and the federal government. They are given a list of 'powers' (e.g., policing, marriage laws) and must try to agree on which ones should be transferred to the community and why.
What are some successful examples of Indigenous self-government in Canada?
Activity 03
Students reflect on what 'autonomy' means in their own lives and then apply that to a community. They discuss with a partner why a community would want to run its own schools or courts, then share with the class.
What challenges arise during self-government negotiations?
A few notes on teaching this unit
Watch Out for These Misconceptions
Self-government means Indigenous nations are leaving Canada.
Self-government is about having jurisdiction over internal affairs within the Canadian federal framework, similar to how provinces have their own powers. Using the 'federalism' analogy helps students understand this relationship.
Self-government is the same for every community.
Every self-government agreement is unique and tailored to the specific needs, culture, and history of that nation. Comparing two different agreements (e.g., an urban vs. a remote community) highlights this diversity.
Methods used in this brief
Traditional Governance Structures
Study the diverse traditional governance systems of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit communities. Understand how these structures are rooted in community values and consensus-building.
8 methodologies
Indigenous Rights in International Law (UNDRIP)
Explore the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) and its implications for Indigenous rights in Canada. Assess the progress of implementing UNDRIP at the federal and provincial levels.
8 methodologies