OKIMAW HUMAN RESOURCE (HR) TRAINING INSTITUTE
Road To Sovereignty
3 DAYS IN-PERSON
First Nations are sovereign Nations with the inherent right to govern their people and territories—rights that have never been given up. Yet colonial laws like the Indian Act have created a system that limits this sovereignty and fosters dependence on the Canadian government. These laws were never meant to empower our Nations. This two-day seminar, Road to Sovereignty, helps participants understand how these colonial systems were built, why they continue to hold back progress, and what it truly means for a Nation to govern itself based on its own laws, values, and traditions.
Who Will Benefit?
Through real examples, interactive discussions, and case studies from across Turtle Island and around the world, participants will explore what it takes to move from dependency to true self-determination. You’ll learn how to begin reclaiming legal power, overcome barriers, and build community-driven laws that reflect the spirit and strength of your Nation. Whether you’re just starting this journey or looking to take your next step, Road to Sovereignty offers the tools and inspiration to move forward with confidence and purpose.
What You Will Learn:
Day 1
Understanding Colonizing Systems
Topics Include:
- How colonial laws and legal systems created dependency between First Nations and the Canadian government
- The social, economic, political, and legal consequences of relying on colonial legislation
- The limitations of the status quo and why change is urgently needed
- What it truly means to be a sovereign Nation, including inherent rights and responsibilities
- Key principles and approaches to decolonizing legal frameworks
- Case studies of successful First Nations law development and implementation
Day 2
Reclaiming Jurisdiction
Dismantling Colonial Legal and Economic Systems Topics Include:
- Understanding the power of First Nations to develop and enforce their own laws
- Identifying the barriers and challenges to implementing self-governance
- Exploring the foundational changes needed to support Indigenous legal processes
- First steps in converting colonial laws into community-driven, culturally grounded legal systems
- Practical strategies for transforming governance without starting from scratch
- Learning from the experiences and best practices of other Indigenous Nations worldwide

UPCOMING EVENTS
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Explore our full course list to find the training that best fits your team’s needs. Whether you’re looking for in-person workshops, virtual sessions, or customized in-agency programs, Okimaw’s offerings are designed to support long-term growth rooted in Indigenous values and community priorities.