Commission and Southern First Nations join together in a new partnership

Yesterday during a signing ceremony, the Canadian Human Rights Commission and the Southern First Nations Secretariat formalized their agreement to work together in preparation for June 2011, when First Nations people will receive full access to human rights protection under the Canadian Human Rights Act.

The Commission and the Secretariat will initiate a pilot project to develop a First Nations led process for internal dispute resolution. This will enable First Nations to deal with allegations of discrimination in an internal recourse process. Both organizations are excited by the idea of establishing the first collaboratively developed First Nation internal dispute resolution process to resolve human rights concerns within the communities themselves.

"Southern First Nations Secretariat has committed to a proactive approach to providing human rights protection for the people we serve" said Mike George, Executive Director, Southern First Nations Secretariat.  "We want to be ahead of the curve, and have in place our own ways of resolving disputes at the First Nation level."   

David Langtry, Deputy Chief Commissioner of the Canadian Human Rights Commission adds, “After more than 30 years, First Nations peoples in Canada finally have access to the same fundamental human rights cherished by all Canadians. Working together, we are solidifying the human rights structure in Canada, raising awareness of the Canadian Human Rights Act and advancing human rights for all people in Canada”

The pilot project will result in lessons learned and best practices, which can be shared with other First Nations wanting to follow the same path.