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One year ago this month, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission released its final report. Its pages described the anguish caused by residential schools and the gaps remaining between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people in terms of education and prosperity. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau praised the report, saying “This is a time of real and positive change.

(Also appeared in The Hill Times)

A resource monitoring program already adopted by Indigenous governments in Labrador may be expanded across Canada if a proposal to the federal government is accepted.

The non-profit Indigenous Leadership Initiative wants the federal Liberals to fund a national network of Indigenous guardians to monitor resources both on the land and water.

Steve Nitah discussess the success of the Guardian program in Lutselk’e, including what it is doing for youth, how it’s helping the environment, and how it has been a beneficial program for his community.

For many people in the Deh Cho, conservation is a way of life. It is no secret that indigenous people have often led the way when it comes to preservation of land, water and life.

Stewardship initiatives from Dehcho First Nations and Lutsel K’e have already paid off for the Northwest Territories, according to a new report.

A new report says Indigenous guardians programs in the N.W.T. that use traditional knowledge to help preserve Indigenous culture and land are delivering “significant social, economic, and environmental benefits.”

An analysis of two emerging programs in Canada’s Northwest Territories found they create about $2.50 of social, economic, cultural and environmental results for every $1 invested. With support from a national network, researchers projected the value could increase to up to $3.70 for each dollar of investment....

Canada’s shameful treatment of Indigenous people was rooted in a double abuse, of both their personal lives and their sustaining values. Now, some of the most significant reforms are being driven and led by Indigenous citizens themselves, and by a respect for their cultures and experience. A compelling example is the proposed National Indigenous Guardians Network.

(Also appeared in the Victoria Times Colonist)

(Vancouver Sun) Finally, a proposal dealing with Indigenous lands, cultures and opportunities that could help create a new relationship with government and industry and create benefits that all Canadians, including B.C. First Nations, can share....

A nonprofit group, the Indigenous Leadership Initiative, is asking the federal government for $500 million over five years for a new nationwide monitoring program.

The proposed national “Guardians” program would send around 1,600 First Nations people out on their traditional lands.