Vision

Based in holistic, trauma-informed understandings of justice, the Indigenous Justice Strategy aims to implement progressive and transformative reforms throughout the justice system to meaningfully address systemic discrimination and the overrepresentation of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis people in contact with the Canadian justice system. The Indigenous Justice Strategy acknowledges that Indigenous understandings of justice are notably rooted in healing, wellness, respect and community.

The Indigenous Justice Strategy seeks to contribute to implementing the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UN Declaration) and is a vehicle for further advancing First Nations, Inuit and Métis self-determination and the revitalization of First Nations, Inuit and Métis laws and legal systems. The Indigenous Justice Strategy recognizes that nation-to-nation, government-to-government relationships with First Nations and Métis, and Inuit-Crown relationships are essential to moving forward, and commits Canada to work in partnership on concrete action to fulfill the distinct justice priorities of First Nations, Inuit and Métis through ongoing consultation and cooperation with Indigenous governments and representative organizations, and collaboration with provincial and territorial government partners.

The Indigenous Justice Strategy is central to ending the ongoing legacy of colonialism that includes laws, policies and approaches that translate into negative outcomes for First Nations, Inuit and Métis people in contact with the Canadian justice system. The Indigenous Justice Strategy signals Canada’s intention to make space for new and innovative systems. The Indigenous Justice Strategy is one step on the path of reconciliation and healing for current and future generations.