Author: Avi Abrams

Something to ponder The Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples (RCAP) was a very consequential investigation in Canadian history, initiated to tackle the intricate and enduring challenges confronting Indigenous peoples in Canada. Formed in 1991 following the Oka Crisis, the Commission was assigned the responsibility of examining the connection between Indigenous peoples, the Canadian government, and society at large. The 1996 final report presented a thorough examination of the past and...

Something to ponder Idle No More is a potent grassroots movement that originated in Canada in late 2012, calling for the rights of Indigenous peoples and the preservation of the environment. Driven by an increasing sense of immediacy regarding the Canadian government's legislative plans, including the contentious Bill C-45, Idle No More rapidly transformed into one of the most noteworthy campaigns led by Indigenous people in contemporary Canadian history. The situation has brought focus to...

Something to ponder The United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) is a significant global accord designed to safeguard the dignity, survival, and welfare of Indigenous populations across the globe. UNDRIP, which was adopted by the United Nations General Assembly on September 13, 2007, provides a comprehensive set of minimum standards to safeguard the rights of Indigenous peoples. These rights encompass land ownership, cultural preservation, self-governance, and...

Something to ponder I recently had the pleasure of meeting Claudia Sescu from the Ivirtivik Centre. The Center aims to empower the Inuit community by providing education, skills enhancement, and assistance in finding work. The Ivirtivik Centre was founded with the objective of enhancing the socio-economic circumstances of the Inuit community. It has emerged as a symbol of optimism and potential for those who aspire to enhance their lives and communities. The Ivirtivik Centre adopts a...

Something to ponder The historical record of treaties between the Canadian government and First Nations Peoples is extensive and intricate, originating from centuries of diplomatic discussions, formal pacts, and confrontations. These treaties are fundamental to the connection between Indigenous peoples and the state of Canada, influencing the socio-political environment of the country. The earliest treaties in Canada originated in the 17th century, largely as agreements of peace and friendship...