Election

2nd edition

Although Indian and Northern Affairs Canada (INAC) has made progress in areas regarding empowerment, education, economic development, specific land claims, and reconciliation, governance and self-government, the issues of leadership selection, Indian Government Support programs, and registration and membership are issues the government intends to work on incrementally in 2008-09.

Court's ruling dealt specifically with voting rights of off-reserve band members. Scroll down to read article.

Paper discusses three topics: the process of adopting the Siyá:m System of leadership, the limitations of the system as expressed by members of the community, and the government and missionary actions which isolated and curtailed the traditional inter-village family interactions.

Analysis includes sections dealing with: application of the Act; definition and registration of Indians; reserve lands (ownership, trespass, surrenders, lands taken for public purpose, and management); estates; management of Indian moneys; election of Chiefs and Councilors and powers of Councils; enfranchisement; and taxation.

Case involving the section of the Indian Act which dealt with off-reserve residents eligibility to vote in matters concerning the community.

Traces developments in the areas of elective systems and Band Council powers.

Muscowpetung reserve election overturned by the Federal Privy Council.

Reviews First Nation voter turnout for federal, provincial and First Nation elections and compares patterns to those of other voters.

Band members protest handling of band council elections and alleged financial mismanagement.

Argues that because Aboriginal women suffer from multiple oppressions there are even greater impacts on their health than that of Aboriginal men.

Interview with Elder working at the University of British Columbia First Nations House of Learning

Report discusses the practical recommendations needed to facilitate elections and referenda taking place November 20, 2000. These recommendations, if acted upon, will ensure the rights of non-resident band members to fully participate in the democratic process.

Focuses on three situations where Chief and Council exercise some authority: allocation of reserve land, law-making powers and elections, and analyzes how the Indian Act allows both too much and too little power in these areas.