Toolkit Launch Presentation: Advancing Indigenous Rights through Indigenous Protected and Conserved Areas

photo – Northern Ontario, photo credit Dave McIntosh, Getty Images

This presentation took place on June 20th at the launch of a new comprehensive guide for Indigenous nations, communities and non-government organizations in Ontario.

As Indigenous-led conservation and Indigenous Protected and Conserved Areas (IPCAs) gain traction, both in Canada and around the world, this first of its kind toolkit strives to support the recognition of Indigenous-led conservation efforts; respond to barriers in establishing IPCAs; and model the legal and policy basis needed to advance Indigenous-led governance in the establishment and management of protected areas.

Speakers
Indigenous knowledge holder, land protector and Elder Joseph Fobister will share the actions Grassy Narrows First Nation has taken in declaring an Indigenous Sovereignty and Protected Area within their territory.

Project lead and settler lawyer Kerrie Blaise shares a summary of this new toolkit which includes immediate actions Indigenous nations can undertake to start discussions about lands protection and governance; interim measures which may help delay adverse impacts or risks, while developing an IPCA; and lasting solutions aimed at achieving long term protection of Indigenous lands and water, aimed at advancing IPCAs.

With thanks to the Law Foundation of Ontario for funding support

To download the presentation slide deck click here. And watch on the Youtube video below.