How are First Nations governed now?
Unless they have negotiated alternate self-government arrangements, most First Nations are currently governed by the Indian Act. They elect Chiefs and band councils which make decisions on their behalf and enact by-laws in a limited number of areas. But they are unable to pass laws in areas critical to the health and well-being of their communities, such as education or social assistance. The Indian Act establishes a limited and dependent form of local administration that does not take into account the specific circumstances of the community. Also under the Indian Act, First Nations are accountable to the Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development, rather than to their own community members.
