Letter of Support for Bill C-262

Dear MP_______________,

I ask you to vote in favour of Bill C-262, which is due for second reading in December 2017.

Bill C-262 concerns itself with establishing a framework for adopting and implementing the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.  I am glad that its presenter, MP Romeo Saganash, has recognized the importance of adopting and

implement the Declaration.  

The Liberal party, under Justin Trudeau's leadership, promised during the last election campaign not only to adopt the UN Declaration but also to implement it. Such implementation requires scrutiny and careful planning, as many of our country's laws will be affected.  Strategic change will be necessary, and wise consultation with all parties affected will be required.

Bill C-262 provides a framework for discussion of the complex issues in the UN Declaration.  It presents a timeline wherein MPs of all political parties can discuss and negotiate possible legislative changes in collaboration with Indigenous Peoples.  The discussions won't be easy, so they must be conducted at the highest level in our country.  The framework suggested in Bill C-262 would guide future governments.

Following the suggested framework within Bill C-262 moves our country toward a long overdue but necessary accountability between Canadians and Indigenous People. It is time all MPs stood up to do what is right. We need commitment from all our MPs, no matter what political party they represent.

Implementing UNDRIP will challenge colonial attitudes and laws.  It is time.  Please do what you can to ensure that this bill passes second reading.

Sincerely,