About BC Books Online
BC Books Online was created for anyone interested in BC-published books, and with librarians especially in mind. We'd like to make it easy for library staff to learn about books from BC publishers - both new releases and backlist titles - so you can inform your patrons and keep your collections up to date.
Our site features print books and ebooks - both new releases and backlist titles - all of which are available to order through regular trade channels. Browse our subject categories to find books of interest or create and export lists by category to cross-reference with your library's current collection.
A quick tip: When reviewing the "Browse by Category" listings, please note that these are based on standardized BISAC Subject Codes supplied by the books' publishers. You will find additional selections, grouped by theme or region, in our "BC Reading Lists."
Description
The essays in this book present important perspectives on the role of Indigenous legal traditions in reclaiming and preserving the autonomy of Aboriginal communities and in reconciling the relationship between these communities and Canadian governments. Although Indigenous peoples had their own systems of law based on their social, political, and spiritual traditions, under colonialism their legal systems have often been ignored or overruled by non-Indigenous laws. Today, however, these legal traditions are being reinvigorated and recognized as vital for the preservation of the political autonomy of Aboriginal nations and the development of healthy communities.
Contributor Notes
The Law Commission of Canada is an independent federal law reform agency that advises Parliament on how to improve and modernize Canada's laws.
Contributors: Dawnis Kennedy, Andrée Lajoie, Ghislain Otis, Ted Palys and Wenona Victor, Paulette Regan, Perry Shawana
Editorial Review
Indigenous Legal Traditions explores the role of Indigenous law both within the context of the Canadian legal system, and as an independent structure. This collection of essays offers five different perspectives on the nature of Aboriginal legal traditions ... The essays echo themes of reconciliation, autonomy and identity. The concept of decolonization appears repeatedly, as the authors search for ways to free traditional legal systems from the oppressive and restrictive colonial structure ... Given the wide range of debate on these important issues, readers will find the book a relevant and insightful look into the role, significance, and future of Indigenous legal systems.
— Saskatchewan Law Review, Vol. 71, 2008
