Bill C-92 Coordination Agreement: What It Means for Indigenous Children and Families
In June 2019, the Government of Canada introduced Bill C-92, An Act respecting First Nations, Inuit and Métis children, youth and families. This bill recognizes the inherent right of Indigenous peoples to self-determination in matters relating to child and family services and aims to empower Indigenous communities to take control of their own child welfare systems.
One key aspect of Bill C-92 is the requirement for coordination agreements between Indigenous governing bodies and provincial or territorial governments. These agreements are meant to facilitate the transition from the existing child welfare system to one that is led by Indigenous people and rooted in their cultures, traditions and practices.
But what exactly is a coordination agreement, and how will it impact Indigenous children and families? In this article, we will explore the importance of coordination agreements in the implementation of Bill C-92.
What is a Coordination Agreement?
A coordination agreement is a legally binding document that outlines the roles, responsibilities and accountability of all parties involved in the provision of child and family services for Indigenous children. It is a collaborative process that involves dialogue and negotiation between Indigenous governing bodies and provincial or territorial governments.
Under Bill C-92, Indigenous governing bodies have the right to develop their own laws, policies and practices regarding child and family services. Coordination agreements serve as a mechanism for ensuring that these laws, policies and practices are respected and implemented by provincial or territorial governments.
Why are Coordination Agreements Important?
Coordination agreements are important for several reasons. Firstly, they ensure that Indigenous communities have a say in how child and family services are provided to their children. This is critical because Indigenous peoples have unique cultural, linguistic and spiritual needs that must be taken into account in the provision of these services.
Secondly, coordination agreements provide a framework for collaboration and partnership between Indigenous governing bodies and provincial or territorial governments. This helps to build trust and mutual respect, which are essential for the success of any child welfare system.
Finally, coordination agreements facilitate the transition from the existing child welfare system to one that is led by Indigenous people. This is important because the existing system has failed Indigenous children and families for decades. It is time for a new approach that prioritizes Indigenous cultures, traditions and practices.
What’s Next?
The implementation of Bill C-92 and the development of coordination agreements will be a complex and challenging process. It will require a significant amount of collaboration, dialogue and negotiation between Indigenous governing bodies and provincial or territorial governments.
However, it is a necessary step towards creating a child welfare system that is rooted in Indigenous cultures, traditions and practices. It is a step towards empowering Indigenous communities to take control of their own child welfare systems and ensuring that Indigenous children and families receive the care and support they need to thrive.
As the implementation process moves forward, it will be important for all parties involved to remain committed to the principles of collaboration, partnership and respect. Only then can we create a child welfare system that truly honours the inherent right of Indigenous peoples to self-determination in matters relating to child and family services.