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Truth & Reconciliation Resources

In recognition of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation the OBA is making the below resources available to members on a complimentary basis. For complimentary access, please use coupon code ONE2AECDD0F2.

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Current Updates and Insights on Aboriginal Law

Hear from experienced practitioners about the emerging issues, recent cases, and key ideas that are impacting the practice of Aboriginal Law in Ontario and across Canada.

Plus, gain valuable insights on important Métis issues and identity - a topic that is shaping legislation across the country, including here in Ontario.

Register for Current Updates and Insights on Aboriginal Law 

Navigating Modern Land Claim Settlements

Implementing modern treaties and agreements is ongoing work for many organizations and all levels of government. With a focus on two key components, money and land, our panelists will share valuable insights on the latest decisions that impact this process, and common implementation issues.

Register for Navigating Modern Land Claim Settlements 

Critical and Emerging Environmental Law Issues for Indigenous Communities: A Series

Part 3: Update on Grassy Narrows Asubpeeschoseewagong Netum Anishinabek First Nation and Contaminated Lands

A decade after the Supreme Court of Canada’s decision in Grassy Narrows First Nation v Ontario (Natural Resources), the community continues to assert their jurisdiction over their lands and territories and to fight for reparations for ongoing mercury poisoning of their watershed.  Join us to learn about what the community has been able to achieve through their organizing and leadership, as well as their ongoing litigation related to mercury poisoning and Ontario's Mining Act. Our panel of experts will share their experiences to help you understand best practices for managing contamination on Indigenous lands, and what to look for in future litigation.

Register for  Critical and Emerging Issues for Indigenous Communities Part 3   | View full series 

Advancing TRC Call to Action #92: Reconciliation and the Corporate Sector

As lawyers working within and representing businesses and corporations, we have an opportunity to play a meaningful role in advancing truth and reconciliation in the corporate sector.

Listen as our esteemed faculty discuss concrete ways in which lawyers can advance reconciliation in their day-to-day business and the value of corporations (and lawyers acting for them) in ameliorating power imbalances by ensuring indigenous participation in business development.

Register for Advancing TRC Call to Action #92

The Future of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous People in Ontario

With the growing influence and role of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (“UNDRIP”) across Canada, how will Ontario respond to this opportunity?  This program will cover key considerations for Ontario including, lessons learned from British Columbia’s Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act, the intersection of UNDRIP and Bill C-15 and how UNDRIP may affect certain long-standing unresolved issues in Ontario. Join our panel of experts as they discuss the future and influence of UNDRIP within Ontario.

Register for The Future of the United Nations Declaration

Key Foundations of Aboriginal Law and Working with Indigenous Clients

Do you work with Indigenous clients? This course will ensure that you are prepared to approach your next file with added confidence. Our expert panel will provide practical advice onn how to work with your clients to achieve the best possible outcomes, while also providing an introductory overview of some key areas of Aboriginal Law and how this informs your practice.

Register for key foundations of aboriginal law and working with Indigenous Clients 

After the TRC and The National Inquiry: The Gladue Principles and The Ongoing Call for Justice

Twenty years after the release of the landmark Supreme Court of Canada decision in R. v. Gladue on sentencing, lawyers and advocates alike continue to raise concerns regarding the implementation of the ruling’s principles. Meanwhile, overrepresentation and the treatment of Indigenous persons within Canada’s criminal justice system remain critical issues.

Register for After the TRC and The National Inquiry

We Are All Treaty People – Why We Need To Be Allies 

As a result of the Truth and Reconciliation process, we are experiencing monumental changes in understanding our relationship with First Nations, Metis and Inuit peoples in Canada. We have also begun the process of better understanding the inequalities faced by marginalized communities. Understanding the challenges and contributions the legal profession can make to this conversation is an important step in supporting the changes on the road to becoming allies, as we build inclusive and caring workplaces that better serve our clients. Join our stellar faculty as they examine and explore this important issue.

Register for We Are All Treaty People – Why We Need To Be Allies 

Indigenous Two Spirited People: Historical and Current Duality of Marginalization

The term Two-Spirit, means different things in different communities. It is an English term that was used in 1990 during the Third Annual Inter-Tribal Native American, First Nations, Gay and Lesbian American Conference in Winnipeg. There are many possible acronyms that cover sexual and gender minorities – LGBTQ2S, 2SLBTQ, LGBTQQIP2SAA, QUILTBAG – all with advantages and limitations. No acronym is perfect. Some Indigenous people use Two-Spirit exclusively and some prefer only the term specific to their identity. It is important to be aware that there are a number of gender and sexual minorities that are not included in some of the acronyms such as asexual, intersex, pansexual, pan-gender, polyamorous, and others.

Register for Indigenous Two Spirited People

Legislative Spotlight: Bill C-92 And Its Impact On Your Practice

The passage of Bill C – 92, An Act Respecting First Nations, Inuit and Métis Children, Youth and Families’, marks a critical turn in Indigenous child welfare. Coming into force on January 1, 2020, this new legislation prioritizes Indigenous law, confers jurisdiction over child and family services to Indigenous Peoples, and outlines guiding principles for delivering child and family services. Are you ready for its important reforms? Attend this program to better understand the new law, what it means for your practice, and its impact on the representation of Indigenous youth.

Register for Legislative Spotlight

Spotlight on Anti-Black and Anti-Indigenous Racism in the Education System

Racism and systemic discrimination are long standing issues in Ontario’s public education system. Join us as we examine the historical and legal context of these issues with a spotlight on anti-black and anti-indigenous racism in our schools. Our panel of experts will discuss the intersection of race and student discipline, staff leadership and community engagement, as well as lessons learned through relevant case law, system reviews and inquests. We will delve into these key legal issues as lawyers, parents and community members to examine the legal framework within which to challenge and dismantle racism and discrimination within our education system.

Register for Spotlight on Anti-Black and Anti-Indigenous Racism