Description
Recovering Canada: The Resurgence of Indigenous Law is a recent book about the Canadian system of law and governance and how First Nations laws can be applied to the Canadian legal system. The author is a Professor and Law Foundation Chair in Aboriginal Justice at the University of Victoria. He is also a member of the Cape Croker First Nation. He brings traditional stories and personal memories of his grandparents to the discussion of the Canadian legal system. His goal is to promote a system of justice that incorporates and respects First Nations laws and governance models. Weaving traditional Ojibwe stories and Canadian case law into a political commentary Borrows explores the means of assisting Canada in overcoming its colonial past. Borrows argues that Canada and First Nations can coexist in a society that integrates two competing worldviews into a renewed vision of Canada's constitution. He uses numerous examples of Ojibwe teachings and stories as well as appropriating the Six Nations example of the Two-Row Wampum. The author claims that his Ojibwe ancestors participated in Two-Row Wampum negotiations at Niagara with the British and Six Nations. Topics include democracy and First Nations, the constitution, treaties and land title in British Columbia, and the rule of law. Some readers may find his thesis promotes assimilation for First Nations into the Canadian system, and others may find his views stimulating. Anyone interested in First Nations law, the Canadian constitution, and Native-White relations will find this book a thought-provoking addition to Indigenous law resources.