Given the challenges, why do Indigenous peoples pursue self-government agreements?
The Gwich’in Tribal Council, a modern treaty government in Northwest Territories, is currently negotiating a self-government agreement with the Government of Canada. When completed, the agreement will enable the GTC to continue the work begun on the effective date of their modern treaty in December 1992.
While the Gwich’in have accomplished much since 1992 without self-government, this agreement will help to provide the autonomy and resources required to continue the process of reclaiming control of their territory, their communities and their economy for future generations.