Bill C-92: A Catalyst for Change in the YCJA

• Main Author: Allain, René
• Format: Text
• Language: unknown
• Published: Allard Research Commons 2023
• Subjects: Family Law; Law and Society; Canada; First Nations; inuit; Metis
• Online Access: https://commons.allard.ubc.ca/can-j-fam-l/vol35/iss2/7; https://commons.allard.ubc.ca/context/can-j-fam-l/article/1114/viewcontent/4._Allain_BILL_C_92_PRINT.pdf

This paper examines Bill C-92, An Act respecting First Nations, Inuit and Metis children, youth and families (2019) (C-92), and how some of its principles should inform a redrafting of the Youth Criminal Justice Act (2002) (YCJA or the Act) to address the over-incarceration of Indigenous youth. Erasing the effects of centuries of racist and genocidal policies is a herculean process that will take several generations. Disrupting this status quo must begin by allowing children an opportunity to learn and prosper within their communities. Although trite, the maxim “children are our future†holds particularly true for Indigenous Nations in Canada.