Exploring new ways of working together
Canada is moving forward with Indigenous partners on different paths toward reconciliation, including Recognition of Rights discussion tables. Find a list of these tables by region.
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About Recognition of Indigenous Rights and Self-Determination discussion tables
The Government of Canada is working with Indigenous groups at over 80 discussion tables across the country to explore new ways of working together to advance the recognition of Indigenous rights and self-determination. These discussions represent more than 390 Indigenous communities, with a total population of more than 760,000 people.
The goal is to bring greater flexibility to negotiations based on the recognition of rights, respect, cooperation and partnership. At these tables, Canada and Indigenous groups can explore new ideas and ways to reach agreements that will recognize the rights of Indigenous groups and advance their vision of self-determination for the benefit of their communities and all Canadians.
These discussions are community-driven and respond to the unique rights, needs and interests of First Nations, Inuit and Métis groups where existing federal policies have not been able to do so. This may involve:
- jointly developing new ways to recognize rights and title in agreements
- building agreements in steps
- exploring ways to advance treaty rights and interests
- finding common ground to settle litigation outside of the courts
- using existing tools that are available government-wide outside of treaty and self-government processes to help address the unique needs of each group
- building awareness of the treaty relationship
The priorities identified by Indigenous groups are the starting point for these discussions. Discussions can focus on one priority area or cover many issues.
The process for moving forward is jointly designed by the parties through co-developed agreements (such as Letters of Understanding, Memoranda of Understanding and Framework Agreements).
Under the agreed-upon process, the parties then work to find the common ground for moving ahead in partnership toward a shared and balanced solution.
These discussions can also seek to address longstanding issues that are not covered by existing treaty or self-government negotiations. This kind of dialogue is open to all Indigenous groups with Section 35 rights to address longstanding issues that may fall outside the scope of other federal policies.
Canada recognizes that federal policies and approaches will continue to evolve over time and looks forward to working with Indigenous communities to co-develop agreements that work for and benefit the parties.
Discussion tables by region
Indigenous groups currently engaged at Recognition of Indigenous Rights and Self-Determination discussion tables with Canada include those listed below. Discussions are confidential. Key facts and links are provided for discussion tables that have been jointly announced or made public by the parties.
British Columbia
Carrier Sekani Tribal Council
| Participating Indigenous communities | Seven Carrier Sekani First Nations: Nadleh Whut'en, Nak'azdli Whut'en, Saik'uz First Nation, Stellat'en First Nation, Takla Lake First Nation, Tl'azt'en Nation and Ts'il Kaz Koh First Nation (Burns Lake Band). |
|---|---|
| When discussions began | 2018 |
| Key milestones | On January 23, 2019, the parties signed a Letter of Understanding. |
| Related links | Canada and Carrier Sekani First Nations advance reconciliation with signing of Letter of Understanding |
Coastal First Nations
| Participating Indigenous communities | Seven Coastal First Nations (as represented by the Great Bear Initiative Society): Gitga'at First Nation, Gitxaala Nation, Heiltsuk First Nation, Kitasoo First Nation, Metlakatla First Nation, Nuxalk Nation, and Wuikinuxv Nation |
|---|---|
| When discussions began | 2015 |
| Key milestones | On July 26, 2019, the parties signed the Coastal First Nations Fisheries Resources Reconciliation Agreement. On October 11, 2017, the parties signed a framework agreement for Fisheries Resources. |
| Related links | Government of Canada signs historic reconciliation agreement with B.C. Coastal First Nations Canada and the Coastal First Nations take a step forward in the management of fisheries resources for the central coast of British Columbia |
Council of Haida Nation
Esquimalt
Heiltsuk Nation
| Participating Indigenous communities | Heiltsuk Nation |
|---|---|
| When discussions began | 2016 |
| Key milestones | On July 25, 2019, the parties signed the Haíɫcístut Incremental House Post Agreement. On January 28, 2017, the parties signed a framework agreement for Reconciliation. |
| Related links | Canada and Heiltsuk Sign the Haíɫcístut Incremental House Post Agreement Reconciliation in Action: Minister Bennett and Chief Slett sign the Heiltsuk Hai´¿ci´stut Framework Agreement for Reconciliation |
Lake Babine First Nation
| Participating Indigenous communities | Lake Babine First Nation |
|---|---|
| When discussions began | 2017 |
| Key milestones | On November 30, 2018, Canada, BC and Lake Babine First Nation signed the Tripartite Memorandum of Understanding to Guide Rights Implementation and Reconciliation Negotiations. |
| Related links | Canada, Lake Babine Nation and British Columbia join together on road to long-term reconciliation |
Métis Nation of British Columbia
| Participating Indigenous communities | Métis Nation of British Columbia |
|---|---|
| When discussions began | 2017 |
| Key milestones | On July 25, 2018, the parties signed a Memorandum of Understanding on reconciliation. |
| Related links | Canada and Métis Nation British Columbia solidify their relationship |
Musqueam Indian Band
'Namgis First Nation
| Participating Indigenous communities | 'Namgis First Nation |
|---|---|
| When discussions began | 2017 |
| Key milestones | On February 18, 2019, the parties signed a memorandum of understanding. |
| Related links | Canada and 'Namgis First Nation advance reconciliation with signing of Memorandum of Understanding |
Okanagan Nation Alliance
Secwépemc Nation
| Participating Indigenous communities | Eleven Secwépemc Nation First Nation communities: Skeetchestn, Tk'emlúps, Esketemc, Splatsin, Shuswap, Adams Lake, Simpcw, High Bar, Bonaparte, Neskonlith and Whispering Pines/Clinton |
|---|---|
| When talks began | 2017 |
| Key milestones | On July 23 and October 17, 2018, the parties signed a Memorandum of Understanding to advance reconciliation on child and family services. |
| Related links | Secwépemc Nation Secwépemc Nation, British Columbia, Government of Canada, sign memorandum of understanding on jurisdiction for child and family services Minister Philpott joins Secwépemc Nation in signing ceremony on Child and Family Services reform |
shíshàlh Nation (formerly the Sechelt Indian Band)
| Participating Indigenous communities | shíshàlh Nation |
|---|---|
| When discussions began | 2018 |
| Key milestones | On February 15, 2019, the parties signed a letter of understanding. |
| Related links | Canada and shíshálh Nation strengthen nation-to-nation relationship with signing of Letter of Understanding |
Shuswap Nation Tribal Council
Southern Dakelh Nation Alliance
| Participating Indigenous communities | The Southern Dakelh Nation Alliance includes the following First Nations: Lhoosk'uz Dené Nation, Lhtako Dené Nation, Nazko First Nation and Ulkatcho Nation |
|---|---|
| When discussions began | 2017 |
| Key milestones | On June 25, 2019, the parties signed a Pathways Agreement. On July 22, 2018, the parties signed a Recognition of Indigenous Rights and Self-Determination Memorandum of Understanding. |
| Related links | Canada and Southern Dakelh Nation Alliance strengthen nation-to-nation relationship with signing of Pathways Agreement Southern Dakelh Nation Alliance and Canada celebrate key step on path of renewal and reconciliation |
Snuneymuxw First Nation
T'aaq-wiihak First Nations
Taku River Tlingit First Nation
Tiyt Tribe First Nations
Tsartlip First Nation
Tŝilhqot'in Nation
| Participating Indigenous communities | Tŝilhqot'in Nation comprises six communities: Tl'etinqox (Anaham), Tsi Del Del (Alexis Creek/Redstone), Yunesit'in Government (Stone), ?Esdilagh (Alexandria), Xeni Gwet'in First Nations Government (Nemiah) and the Tl'esqox (Toosey Band) |
|---|---|
| When talks began | 2016 |
| Key milestones | On November 2, 2018, the Prime Minister visited Tŝilhqot'in title lands and delivered a statement of exoneration. On March 26, 2018, the Prime Minister delivered in Parliament a statement of exoneration for 6 Tŝilhqot'in Chiefs. On January 27, 2017, the parties signed a Letter of Understanding to renew relationships and advance reconciliation. |
| Related links | Tŝilhqot'in and Canada take first steps towards reconciliation with signing of Letter of Understanding Prime Minister delivers a statement of exoneration for 6 Tŝilhqot'in Chiefs Prime Minister visits Tŝilhqot'in Nation to personally deliver statement of exoneration |
Tsleil-Waututh Nation
| Participating Indigenous communities | Tsleil-Waututh Nation |
|---|---|
| When talks began | 2016 |
| Key milestones | On September 4, 2017, the parties signed a Letter of Understanding to renew relationships and advance reconciliation. |
| Related links | Canada and Tsleil-Waututh Nation take steps to advance reconciliation with signing of Letter of Understanding |
Wet'suwet'en Nation
| Participating Indigenous communities | Wet'suwet'en Hereditary Chiefs,Witset First Nation and Hagwilget Village Council |
|---|---|
| When talks began | 2017 |
| Key milestones | On October 11, 2018, the parties signed a Memorandum of Understanding to advance reconciliation on child and family services. |
| Related links | Canada, British Columbia and Wet'suwet'en make progress on child and family services |
WSÁNEĆ Nation
| Participating Indigenous communities | Three W̱SÁNEĆ First Nations: Tsartlip First Nation, Tseycum First Nation and Tsawout First Nation |
|---|---|
| When discussions began | 2018 |
| Key milestones | On January 24, 2019, the parties signed a Letter of Understanding. |
| Related links | Canada and W̱SÁNEĆ Nation strengthen nation-to-nation relationship with signing of Letter of Understanding |
Alberta
Blood Tribe
| Participating Indigenous communities | Blood Tribe |
|---|---|
| When discussions began | 2017 |
| Key milestones | On July 5, 2018, the parties signed a Memorandum of Understanding on reconciliation. |
| Related links | Blood Tribe Blood Tribe and Canada celebrate key step on path of renewal and reconciliation |
Métis Nation of Alberta
| Participating Indigenous communities | Métis Nation of Alberta |
|---|---|
| When talks began | 2016 |
| Key milestones | On June 27, 2019, the parties signed a Métis Government Recognition and Self-Government Agreement. On November 16, 2017, the parties signed a framework agreement that sets out a process to begin formal negotiations. The framework agreement is the result of exploratory talks held under a Memorandum of Understanding on Advancing Reconciliation signed in January 2017. |
| Related links | Métis Nation of Alberta Historic self-government agreements signed with the Métis Nation of Alberta, the Métis Nation of Ontario and the Métis Nation-Saskatchewan Canada and the Métis Nation of Alberta advance reconciliation with signing of Framework Agreement |
Métis Settlements General Council
| Participating Indigenous communities | Métis Settlements General Council |
|---|---|
| When talks began | 2017 |
| Key milestones | On December 17, 2018, the parties signed a Framework Agreement. On December 14, 2017, the parties signed a Memorandum of Understanding. |
| Related links | Canada and the Métis Settlement General Council Sign Framework Agreement Canada and the Métis Settlements General Council moving forward on reconciliation with signing of Memorandum of Understanding |
Mikisew Cree First Nation
Sawridge/Kapawe'no First Nations
| Participating Indigenous communities | Sawridge and Kapawe'no First Nations |
|---|---|
| When talks began | 2018 |
| Key milestones | On November 13, 2018, the parties signed a Memorandum of Understanding. |
| Related links | Sawridge and Kapawe'no First Nations and Canada sign Memorandum of Understanding on Advancing Self-Determination |
Stoney Nakota (Chiniki First Nation, Bearspaw First Nation and Wesley First Nation)
Treaty #6 First Nations
Treaty #8 First Nations
Saskatchewan
Meadow Lake Tribal Council
Métis Nation-Saskatchewan
| Participating Indigenous communities | Métis Nation-Saskatchewan |
|---|---|
| When talks began | 2017 |
| Key milestones | On June 27, 2019, the parties signed a Métis Government Recognition and Self-Government Agreement. On July 20, 2018, the parties signed a framework agreement. On February 22, 2018, the parties signed a memorandum of understanding. |
| Related Links | Métis Nation-Saskatchewan Historic self-government agreements signed with the Métis Nation of Alberta, the Métis Nation of Ontario and the Métis Nation-Saskatchewan Métis Nation-Saskatchewan and Canada set to begin reconciliation negotiations |
McArthur - Treaty#4 (Ocean Man, White Bear and Pheasant Rump Nakota)
| Participating Indigenous communities | Ocean Man Band, White Bear Band and Pheasant Rump Nakota Band |
|---|---|
| When talks began | 2016 |
| Key milestones | On May 30, 2017, the parties signed a Memorandum of Understanding. |
Poundmaker Cree Nation
| Participating Indigenous communities | Poundmaker Cree Nation |
|---|---|
| When talks began | 2018 |
| Key milestones | On May 23, 2019, the Prime Minister delivered a statement of exoneration for Chief Poundmaker. |
| Related links | Poundmaker Cree Nation Chief Poundmaker Exoneration Statement of Exoneration for Chief Poundmaker Prime Minister delivers a statement of exoneration for Chief Poundmaker |
Red Earth Cree Nation
| Participating Indigenous communities | Red Earth Cree Nation |
|---|---|
| When discussions began | 2018 |
| Key milestones | On March 19, 2019, the parties signed a memorandum of understanding. |
| Related links | Red Earth Cree Nation Canada and Red Earth Cree Nation sign Memorandum of Understanding to advance discussions on administration of justice |
Treaty #4 First Nations
Treaty #10 First Nations
Wahpeton Dakota
Whitecap Dakota First Nation
| Participating Indigenous communities | Whitecap Dakota First Nation |
|---|---|
| When talks began | 2016 |
| Key milestones | On January 22, 2018, the parties signed a Framework Agreement for advancing reconciliation. |
| Related links | Whitecap Dakota First Nation Whitecap Dakota First Nation and Canada sign historic Framework Agreement towards treaty |
Manitoba
Birdtail Sioux First Nation
Canupawakpa Dakota First Nation
Dakota Plains First Nation
Fisher River Cree Nation
| Participating Indigenous communities | Fisher River Cree Nation |
|---|---|
| When talks began | 2018 |
| Key milestones | On December 6, 2018, the parties signed a Memorandum of Understanding on advancing reconciliation. |
| Related links | Fisher River Cree Nation Fisher River Cree Nation and Canada sign Memorandum of Understanding on Advancing Reconciliation |
Island Lake Tribal Council
Manitoba Metis Federation
| Participating Indigenous communities | Manitoba Metis Federation |
|---|---|
| When talks began | 2016 |
| Key milestones | On September 22, 2018, the parties announced a 3-part action plan to advance reconciliation. On November 15, 2016, the parties signed a Framework Agreement that sets out a process to begin formal negotiations. The Framework Agreement is the result of exploratory talks held under a Memorandum of Understanding signed in May 2016. |
| Related links | Manitoba Metis Federation Manitoba Metis Federation and Government of Canada announce joint action plan on Advancing Reconciliation Canada and Manitoba Metis Federation celebrate key milestone on road to reconciliation |
Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation
Sioux Valley Dakota Nation
| Participating Indigenous communities | Sioux Valley Dakota Nation |
|---|---|
| When talks began | 2016 |
| Key milestones | On September 22, 2018, the parties signed a Framework Agreement. |
| Related links | Sioux Valley Dakota Nation, Canada and Manitoba sign Framework Agreement on Reconciliation |
Treaty #2 First Nations
| Participating Indigenous communities | First Nations in Treaty 2 Territory |
|---|---|
| When talks began | 2017 |
| Key milestones | On December 6, 2018, the parties signed a Protocol Agreement for advancing reconciliation. |
| Related links | First Nations in Treaty 2 Territory First Nations in Treaty 2 Territory and Canada sign Protocol Agreement for Advancing Reconciliation |
Treaty #5 and Treaty #5 Adhesions First Nations
Ontario
Grand Council Treaty# 3
Métis Nation of Ontario
Michano Litigation (Biigetikong Nishnaabeg, Pic Mobert First Nation, Pawgwasheeng, Long Lake Number 58 First Nation, Bingwi Neyaashi Anishinaabek and Biinjitiwaabik Zaaging Anishinaabek)
Mississaugas of New Credit First Nation
| Participating Indigenous communities | Mississaugas of New Credit First Nation |
|---|---|
| When talks began | 2017 |
| Key milestones | On September 6, 2018, the parties signed a consultation protocol. |
| Related links | Canada and the Mississaugas of the New Credit First Nation forge new relationship with signing of consultation protocol |
Nishnawbe Aski Nation
Robinson-Huron Treaty First Nations
Temagami First Nation
United Chiefs and Councils of Mnidoo Mnising
| Participating Indigenous communities | United Chiefs and Councils of Mnidoo Mnising representing Aundeck Omni Kaning, Sheguiandah, Sheshegwaning, Whitefish River and Zhiibaahaasing First Nations |
|---|---|
| When discussions began | 2017 |
| Key milestones | On July 16, 2019, the parties signed a framework agreement. |
| Related links | United Chiefs and Councils of Mnidoo Mnising Tribal Council and Canada sign framework for moving forward in partnership to advance reconciliation |
Wiikwemkoong
Williams Treaties First Nations
| Participating Indigenous communities | Williams Treaties First Nations: Alderville First Nation, Beausoleil First Nation, Chippewas of Georgina Island, Chippewas of Rama, Curve Lake First Nation, Hiawatha First Nation, Mississaugas of Scugog Island |
|---|---|
| When talks began | 2016 |
| Key milestones | On November 17, 2018, Canada and Ontario delivered historic apologies to the 7 Williams Treaties First Nations. On September 13, 2018, the parties announced a negotiated settlement agreement resolving the Alderville litigation. In February 2017, the parties agreed to a process to begin formal negotiations. |
| Related links | Williams Treaties First Nations Canada and Ontario advance reconciliation with historic apologies to the 7 Williams Treaties First Nations communities Canada, Ontario and Williams Treaties First Nations reach negotiated settlement agreement for Alderville Litigation Statement of Apology for the Impacts of the 1923 Williams Treaties Williams Treaties First Nations Settlement Agreement Canada, Ontario and Williams Treaties First Nations take first step towards a negotiated resolution of Alderville litigation |
Quebec
Huron-Wendat of Wendake
Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg First Nation
| Participating Indigenous communities | Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg First Nation |
|---|---|
| When discussions began | 2019 |
| Key milestones | On March 18, 2019, the parties signed a historic memorandum of understanding on reconciliation. |
| Related links | Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg First Nation and Canada take major step forward on path of reconciliation |
Long Point First Nation
Makivik Corporation
| Participating Indigenous communities | Inuit of Nunavik |
|---|---|
| When discussions began | 2019 |
| Key milestones | On June 19, 2019, the parties signed a memorandum of understanding on self-determination. |
| Related links | Makivik Corporation Makivik Corporation and Canada are moving forward on the path of reconciliation |
Maliseet of Viger
| Participating Indigenous communities | Maliseet of Viger First Nation |
|---|---|
| When discussions began | 2018 |
| Key milestones | On March 5, 2019, the parties signed a framework agreement on the renewal of the relationship. |
| Related links | Maliseet of Viger First Nation Canada and the Maliseet of Viger First Nation embark on the journey to reconciliation: Conclusion of Framework Agreement to renew the nation-to-nation relationship |
Mi'gmaq of the Gaspé region of Quebec
| Participating Indigenous communities | Listuguj Mi'gmaq |
|---|---|
| When discussions began | 2018 |
| Key milestones | On November 12, 2018, Canada and the Listuguj Mi'gmaq Government signed a Canada-Listuguj First Nation Fish Framework Agreement. |
| Related links | Government of Canada and Listuguj Mi'gmaq Government conclude agreement on fishery |
Mohawk Council of Kahnawà:ke
Mohawks of Kanehsatà:ke
Naskapi Nation of Kawachikmach
Atlantic
Elsipogtog First Nation
| Participating Indigenous communities | Elsipogtog First Nation |
|---|---|
| When discussions began | 2019 |
| Key milestones | On May 9, 2019, the parties signed a memorandum of understanding to advance reconciliation and renew their relationship. |
| Related links | Elsipogtog First Nation Canada and Elsipogtog First Nation advance reconciliation through a Memorandum of Understanding |
Mi'gmaq of New Brunswick
Mi'kmaq of Nova Scotia
Mi'kmaq of Prince Edward Island
NunatuKavut Community Council
| Participating Indigenous communities | NunatuKavut Community Council |
|---|---|
| When discussions began | 2018 |
| Key milestones | On July 12, 2018, the parties announced the start of discussions on recognition of Indigenous rights and self-determination. |
| Related links | NunatuKavut Community Council Canada and NunatuKavut enter into historic talks to recognize Indigenous rights and self-determination. |
Peskotomuhkati
Wolastoqey of New Brunswick
Nunavut
Ahiarmiut (Ahiarmiut Relocation Society)
| Participating Indigenous communities | Ahiarmiut (Ahiarmiut Relocation Society) |
|---|---|
| When discussions began | 2017 |
| Key milestones | On January 22, 2019, Canada delivered a historic apology to the Ahiarmiut for past wrongs related to multiple relocations in the 1950s. In April 2018, the parties agreed to a process to begin formal negotiations toward a settlement. |
| Related links | Canada advances reconciliation with historic apology to the Ahiarmiut Statement of Apology for the Relocation of the Ahiarmiut Ahiarmiut Relocation Claim Settlement |
Northwest Territories
Gwich'in Tribal Council
Inuvialuit Regional Corporation
Kátł'odeeche First Nation
Yukon
Kaska Dena Council
Kwanlin Dun First Nation
Liard First Nation
White River First Nation