Intermediate Inherent Right to Indigenous Governance - Spring 2024

Wise Practice Element 2: Leadership 

Overview

Inherent Right to Indigenous Governance illuminates foundational principles of effective and responsible governance. Discover historical and contemporary Indigenous governance models, while reflecting on your own gifts, responsibilities, and entitlements rooted in law and policy. You will work towards imagining and identifying concrete actions you can take to implement in your current positions and in your communities.

Indigenous nations and organizations are at various stages in exercising local sovereignty. The Supreme Court of Canada, in the Van der Peet case, stated that the sovereignty of Indigenous societies must be reconciled with Crown sovereignty. You will come away from the program with an understanding of what a reconciled model of governance would look like after exploring and discussing traditional forms of Indigenous governance, while gaining a fuller understanding of the colonial forms of governance.

Successful self-governance begins with a complete understanding of the constitutional and legal framework regarding the various levels of governments. Learn from Indigenous case studies about implementing their self-government agreements.

What does the program offer?

• Examples of traditional forms and processes of governance
• Examples of traditional political philosophies and world-views
• Transition from traditional governance to legislated governance
• Reconciling traditional and contemporary forms of governance
• A look at sovereignty and inherent right to self-determination
• Understanding of legal frameworks for various levels of governments
• Self-government case study

Who should register?

• Indigenous leaders, administrators, and senior management
• First Nations, Inuit, and Métis regional or tribal executive directors
• Consultants and legal counsel who work closely with Indigenous nations and organizations
• Provincial and federal policy analysts and negotiators

Applicants must be ages 18+ at the time of the program start date.

This program prioritizes Indigenous learners, and those working for Indigenous communities and organizations. Programs are filled on a first come, first served basis. Please register early to secure a confirmation of your spot.

Earn your Certificate

The Certificate of Indigenous Leadership, Governance and Management Excellence is awarded to individuals who recognize the importance of continuing education and have successfully completed a total of seven programs. The programs are strategically focused on building your capacity to assist your community and organization to successfully move forward into the era of self-determination and successful community economic development. All Intermediate offerings are counted towards the certificate, while Introductory programs do not. Learn more about what courses you require in order to achieve your certificate here.