Indigenous Citizenship and Law with Dr. Val Napoleon

Val Napoleon was appointed Law Foundation Professor of Aboriginal Justice and Governance at the Faculty of Law, University of Victoria in 2012. She is a member of Saulteau First Nation (north east British Columbia, Treaty 8). She is also an adopted member of the Gitanyow (Gitksan) House of Luuxhon, Ganada (Frog) Clan. Prior to joining the Faculty of Law at UVIC, she was an associate professor cross appointed with the faculties of native studies and law at the University of Alberta.

Val worked as a community activist and consultant in northwestern BC for over 25 years, specializing in health, education, and justice issues. Val’s current research focuses on Indigenous legal traditions, Indigenous legal theory, indigenous feminism, citizenship, self-determination, and governance. She is currently the academic lead on a national Indigenous law and reconciliation with the Indigenous Bar Association, Truth and Reconciliation, and the Ontario Law Foundation.

PART OF SEDE'S INDIGENOUS EDUCATIONAL SERIES.

Since colonial contact an occupation, there have been dramatic changes to the identity, culture, and society of Indigenous peoples of Canada.

In today’s Canadian landscape, what issues do Indigenous people face? How has colonialism impacted their traditions and everyday life, societies, and economy? What have been the successes and breakthroughs? What is the outlook for the future?

The Social Equity and Diversity Education (SEDE) Office’s Indigenous Education Series aims to raise awareness and initiate an exchange of ideas on First Nations, Métis and Inuit topics within the McGill community. The series provides opportunities to explore and examine a variety of issues and promote greater knowledge and understanding about the Indigenous peoples of Canada.

SEDE provides information, education and training to all areas of the University in order to cultivate a respectful, diverse and supportive campus.

This event is in partnership with the Faculty of Law and the Sustainability Projects Fund.