Indigenous Rights in One Minute

Internationally renowned as an expert in Aboriginal law and an advocate for Indigenous rights, Bruce McIvor delivers concise, essential information for a path towards truth and reconciliation.

Canada has been at the forefront of reconciliation efforts with Indigenous Peoples. More and more countries around the world, such as the US and Australia, are looking to Canada as an example for developing Aboriginal law and working towards reconciliation. In Indigenous Rights in One Minuteprovides concise, plain answers to 100 essential questions.

During his nearly three decades advocating for Indigenous rights and teaching Aboriginal law, McIvor has recorded the fundamental questions around reconciliation: Why do Indigenous people have special rights? What is the Doctrine of Discovery? Who are the Metis? Why was the Calder decision important? What is reconciliation? McIvor supplies the answers by scrapping the technical language that confuses the issues, and speaks directly to everyone looking for straight answers. Throughout, McIvor shares his perspective on why reconciliation as envisioned by the courts and Canadian governments frustrates Indigenous people and what needs to change to overcome the impasse. McIvor’s explanations of complex legal issues demonstrate a unique mix of a deep knowledge of the law, the ability to write clearly and concisely, practical experience from the frontlines of advocating for First Nations in courtrooms and at negotiation tables across the country, and a profound passion for justice rooted in his work and personal history.

To ensure reconciliation progresses from rhetoric to reality, we need straightforward answers to fundamental questions. McIvor provides the answers and context to support a thoughtful and respectful conversation about reconciliation and the fulfillment of a commitment to a better future for Indigenous people.

Author Biography

Bruce McIvor is the founder and senior partner at First Peoples Law LLP and an adjunct professor at the University of British Columbia’s Allard School of Law. He is the author of Standoff: Why Reconciliation Fails Indigenous People and How to Fix It (2021). He is a member of the Manitoba Métis Federation. He lives in Vancouver, BC.