Look, I've been working with Indigenous communities across BC for years now, and one thing I've learned is that good information shouldn't be locked behind legal jargon or buried in some dusty filing cabinet. This page is my attempt to gather resources that've actually helped folks I've worked with - real stuff that matters when you're dealing with land claims, trying to protect sacred sites, or just figuring out where to start.
Everything here's a work in progress. If there's something missing that'd help your community, shoot me a message. This isn't about me being some expert handing down wisdom - it's about pooling what we know so everyone's got a better shot at protecting what matters.
Can't Find What You Need?
I'm always adding new materials based on what communities are asking for. Don't be shy.
Get in TouchLegal Guides & Templates
Plain-language breakdowns of treaty rights, consultation processes, and legal frameworks. No fluff, just what you need to know.
Updated Oct 2025 - 24 pages
Updated Sept 2025 - 18 pages
Editable format
Updated Nov 2025 - 31 pages
Updated Aug 2025 - 22 pages
Community Support Networks
Sometimes you need more than legal advice - here's where to find support, funding, and folks who've been through similar battles.
BC Assembly of First Nations
Political advocacy org that's done solid work on consultation protocols. Their resource library's pretty comprehensive if you're dealing with provincial issues.
Visit WebsiteIndigenous Law Centre (UBC)
Academic but accessible. They put out some great case summaries and their annual conference is worth attending if you can swing it.
Visit WebsiteFirst Nations Health Authority
Environmental contamination cases often overlap with health issues. These folks get it and can provide support documentation that holds up in court.
Visit WebsiteWest Coast Environmental Law
They've partnered on several Indigenous-led environmental cases. Good people who understand that Indigenous rights and environmental protection go hand-in-hand.
Visit WebsiteCultural Protocols & Guidance
Legal work in Indigenous communities means respecting protocols. Here's what I've learned, though always defer to local knowledge keepers.
Consultation Etiquette Checklist
Basic dos and don'ts when engaging with communities. Based on feedback from Elders I've worked with over the years.
Traditional Territory Mapping Resources
How to properly document and present traditional use info in legal proceedings. Includes case examples.
Protecting Traditional Knowledge in Court
Strategies for sharing enough to make your case without exposing sensitive cultural information. Tricky balance.
Working with Knowledge Keepers
Guidelines for compensating and crediting Elders who contribute to legal cases. They deserve respect AND proper payment.
Educational Materials
Whether you're training staff, educating youth, or just want to understand the bigger picture - these are resources I actually recommend.
Video Series: UNDRIP Explained
Six short videos breaking down the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and what it means in Canadian law. No legal degree required.
Video 45 min totalWorkshop Kit: Know Your Treaty Rights
Presentation slides and facilitator notes for running community workshops. I've used this dozens of times - it works.
PowerPoint 2-hour sessionReading List: Indigenous Law in Canada
Curated list of books and articles that'll give you a solid foundation. Mix of academic and accessible stuff.
PDF AnnotatedCase Law Summaries
Monthly updates on significant court decisions affecting Indigenous rights. I read through the boring stuff so you don't have to.
Newsletter MonthlyStay in the Loop
I send out a monthly newsletter with new resources, case updates, and upcoming opportunities for communities. No spam, no corporate nonsense - just useful info when I've got something worth sharing.
Funding Opportunities Database
One of the biggest challenges I see is communities having the will to fight but not the resources. I maintain a running list of grants, legal aid programs, and funding sources specifically for Indigenous-led initiatives. Updated quarterly based on what's actually available and what communities tell me they've successfully accessed.
- Federal and provincial funding programs
- Foundation grants for legal costs
- Environmental litigation support funds
- Application tips from successful submissions
Important Notes on Using These Resources
This Isn't Legal Advice
Everything here is educational. Every situation's different, and what worked for one community might not work for yours. If you're facing a specific legal issue, let's talk about your actual circumstances.
Share Freely (With Attribution)
All my materials here can be shared with other communities and organizations. Just give credit where it's due and don't sell 'em. Knowledge should circulate, not get locked up.
Laws Change, This Gets Updated
I try to keep everything current, but court decisions happen fast. Check the date on any document and when in doubt, reach out to confirm nothing major's changed.
Your Feedback Matters
Found something confusing? See a gap? Have a suggestion? Tell me. This resource hub gets better when folks actually tell me what they need.