Kaitlin Ritchie, OKT LLP
This guide explains why and how First Nations can adopt their own band membership codes instead of leaving membership decisions to Indigenous Services Canada (ISC)
- Background: Since the 1985 amendments to the Indian Act, band membership and Indian Status have been separate legal categories.
- Why: A community-defined membership code better reflects a Nation’s own laws and customs.
- How: A band must hold a referendum (vote), then give formal notice to the Minister to assume control over its own membership list.