GC31 Aboriginal Rights Entrenchment in the Constitution (1986A163)

WHEREAS our theology and faith call us to be with those who are oppressed and suffering injustice;

WHEREAS The United Church of Canada has a record of standing alongside aboriginal people in their struggle for human rights, dignity and land entitlement;

WHEREAS the 28th General Council supported and affirmed full and equal participation of aboriginal people in all areas and levels of the Canadian Constitution discussions and negotiations;

WHEREAS the church through the Project North coalitions has been at the table with aboriginal people at the First Minister’s Conference on Aboriginal Rights and the Constitution in 1985:

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the 31st General Council affirm its support of the aboriginal peoples in their efforts to obtain justice through the recognition of aboriginal title, aboriginal rights and treaty rights and through a just settlement of claims, and that these rights be entrenched in the constitution.

AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the 31st General Council of The United Church of Canada call upon the government of Canada to bring forward a set of constitutional amendments designed to entrench in the constitution:

1. The enforceable right of aboriginal peoples to self-government and an adequate land and/or economic base;
2. The requirement of consent by the aboriginal peoples on all future amendments affecting them.

ROP Page Ref. 1986 ROP, p. 123, 662.