Bill C-92 was co-developed by the Government of Canada and Indigenous, provincial, and territorial partners. This act provides Indigenous communities with a pathway to apply their inherent jurisdiction over the care of their own children and families that follows their own traditional laws and values. It also affirms the rights of Indigenous communities to develop policies, laws, and practices based on their particular histories, cultures, and circumstances. Communities can choose their own solutions for their children and families, and implement and enforce policies and laws at their own pace.
This new law establishes national principles (such as the best interests of the child, cultural continuity, and substantive equality) that must be followed by every person providing services to Indigenous children. To access a list of service providers, consult the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. To learn more about the act, see the Yellowhead Institute website.