Finding ways to build trust and make meaningful change to British Columbia’s justice system, in partnership with Indigenous peoples, were key themes at British Columbia’s 11th Justice Summit in November 2018.

Planned in partnership with representatives from the B.C. Aboriginal Justice Council and the Métis Nation British Columbia, the event invited Indigenous leaders and community experts, as well as justice and public safety leaders, to discuss Indigenous peoples’ experiences with B.C.’s justice system and how the system can be improved.

Participants discussed the importance of increasing the use of the Supreme Court of Canada’s decision in the Gladue case, supporting community-led justice solutions and building the capacity of Indigenous communities in ways that support self-determination. Discussions explored issues identified at the 10th B.C. Justice Summit in June 2018, which also focused on Indigenous peoples and the justice system.

After the 11th summit, three recommendations were identified that reflect the most widely supported ideas that arose during the two days of dialogue. These recommendations offer a framework for continued discussion on how to reshape the justice system in ways that work for Indigenous peoples.

The report of the 11th summit has been delivered to:

• David Eby, Attorney General;
• Mike Farnworth, Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General;
• the chief justices and chief judge of B.C.’s three courts;
• the B.C. Aboriginal Justice Council;
• the Regional Chief of the B.C. Assembly of First Nations; and
• the Minister of Justice for the Métis Nation British Columbia.

Government has posted the report online: http://www.justicebc.ca/justice-summ

Learn More:

Read the proceedings of previous summits: http://www.justicebc.ca/justice-summits/

More about the Justice and Public Safety Council: https://www.justicebc.ca/