The Lac La Ronge Indian is comprised of six main communities. (File photo/paNOW Staff)

By Derek Cornet

supreme court

LLRIB celebrates court ruling on child and family welfare services

Feb 12, 2024 | 12:05 PM

The Lac La Ronge Indian Band (LLRIB) supports the Supreme Court of Canada’s recent decision upholding the governance of First Nations over child and family welfare services.

Band leadership believes it marks a significant milestone, signifying hope and progress towards a reconciled future.

“For far too long, our community has experienced the detrimental impacts of policies that have fragmented our families and attempted to erase our cultural identity,” said Chief Tammy Cook-Searson in a media release issued Sunday.

“Generations of our people have suffered under government actions that dismantled our families and threatened our way of life. This landmark decision challenges this dark past and offers a path forward for our people to heal and govern ourselves according to our own laws.”

This ruling is in step with the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and responds directly to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s Calls to Action. The releases states it stands in stark contrast to the era of residential schools, the ‘Sixties Scoop’, and provincial child welfare policies that were aimed to assimilate Indigenous children throughout Canada.

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When it comes into effect, LLRIB laws regarding child and family services legislation will now stand on equal footing with federal law — and will supercede provincial law — offering a level of protection and autonomy previously unseen.

“This is not just a legal win. We see this decision as a catalyst for change, where the rights and welfare of our children will be actively protected by our own laws,” Cook-Searson said.

“Moving forward, we will be able to look after our children in ways that reflect our deeply rooted values and tradition, and ensure that they grow up with a strong sense of identity, belonging and pride.”

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derek.cornet@pattisonmedia.com