INDIGENOUS BAR ASSOCIATION APPLAUDS ROYAL ASSENT OF BILL S-13, AN ACT TO AMEND THE INTERPRETATION ACT
The Indigenous Bar Association (IBA) celebrates the Royal Assent of Bill S-13, An Act to Amend the Interpretation Act. This historic legislation marks a significant step forward in recognizing and affirming the unique role of Indigenous languages, perspectives, and legal orders within the Canadian legal framework.
This marks a historic milestone in Canada’s journey towards reconciliation and respect for Indigenous peoples’ rights. Bill S-13 amends the federal Interpretation Act, to require the federal government to interpret federal laws, statues and regulations in a manner consistent with the recognition and implementation of Indigenous rights, as enshrined in Section 35 of the Constitution Act, 1982.
The IBA was honored to participate in the legislative process, with submissions to the Standing Senate Committee on Legal and Constitutional Affairs. Professor Naiomi Metallic appeared on behalf of the IBA and expressed support for the bill’s proposed non-derogation clause while also encouraging Canada to include language that requires laws to conform with the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP).
IBA President, Drew Lafond, said:
"Bill S-13 strengthens the legal foundation for interpreting Canadian laws in alignment with Section 35, while embracing Indigenous legal perspectives and principles. The inclusion of the non-derogation clause in the Interpretation Act also opens the door for greater respect and integration of Indigenous legal orders within the Canadian legal framework. The IBA is proud to have contributed to this significant milestone and will continue to champion the rights and laws of Indigenous peoples. We thank Professor Metallic for her tireless advocacy and calling on Canada to fully implement its commitments under the UNDRIP. We also commend the efforts of all legislators, advocates, and communities who worked tirelessly to see Bill S-13 enacted."
The IBA remains committed to advancing legal reforms that respect Indigenous jurisdiction, uphold treaty rights, and address the systemic barriers that Indigenous peoples continue to face in the justice system.
The IBA is the national non-profit organization representing Indigenous (First Nation, Métis, and Inuit) lawyers (practicing and non-practicing), judges, legal academics and scholars, articling clerks and law students, including graduate and post-graduate law students and paralegals in Canada. The IBA’s mandate includes, inter alia, advocating for the recognition of Indigenous laws, legal traditions, protocols and processes; promoting the reform of policies and laws affecting Indigenous peoples in Canada; and fostering public awareness within the legal community in respect of legal and social issues of concern to Indigenous peoples in Canada. For more information, please visit www.indigenousbar.ca.
