NAN supports private member’s bill for UNDRIP implementation

Nishnawbe Aski Nation (NAN) supports a private member’s bill calling for the Government of Ontario to adopt and implement the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP).

“The UNDRIP reaffirms the rights of Indigenous peoples to self-determination and is fundamental to the survival, dignity and well-being of NAN First Nations and Indigenous peoples across Ontario and Canada,” said Deputy Grand Chief Derek Fox, who participated in a press conference at Queen’s Park today. “We are pleased to support the efforts of MPP Sol Mamakwa to ensure that the standards set out in the UNDRIP are fully implemented within all provincial laws and policies. The full implementation of the UNDRIP would be a meaningful step towards reconciliation with First Nations in Ontario and I encourage all Members to support this bill.”

The United National Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act was introduced in the Ontario legislature today by Kiiwetinoong MPP Sol Mamakwa. It calls for the provincial government to align Ontario laws with the UNDRIP, recognize the basic human rights and fundamental freedoms of Indigenous peoples, and affirm its commitment reconciliation.

“The UNDRIP supports the sovereignty of NAN First Nations, including the inherent right to our traditional lands,” said Grand Chief Alvin Fiddler. “The timing of the introduction of this bill is significant as the Government of Ontario looks to repeal the controversial Far North Act. A repeal of the Far North Act is consistent with the principals of the UNDRIP, which affirms the rights of First Nations to control development on our lands.”

NAN supported a similar private member’s bill by NDP MP Roméo Saganash in 2016 calling for the full implementation of the UNDRIP in Canadian law.

The UNDRIP was adopted by the UN General Assembly in September 2007. It recognizes the collective rights of Indigenous peoples living in Canada including inherent rights to traditional lands and territories, self-determination, and recognition of culture and language. Its adoption and implementation were recommended as the framework for reconciliation in the Final Report of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission.

For more information please contact:
Michael Heintzman,
Director of Communications
Cell: (807) 621-2790
mheintzman@nan.ca