Québec recognizes Aboriginal customary adoption - CNW Group

Chief of the Assembly of First Nations of Quebec and Labrador, is pleased that the Government of Quebec has officially recognized the customary rules of the adoption of the First Nations and Inuit. A Bill is tabled today in the National Assembly to amend the Code Civil du Québec to recognize the legality of Aboriginal customary adoption. "It is a very important step in the recognition of Quebec of our status of indigenous people and the special laws of the governance of First Nations," said Chief Picard.

The recognition of the customary adoption rules in the Bill dealing with the adoption and parental authority is a direct consequence of the "report of the Working Group of indigenous customary Adoption", filed on 16 April 2012, which said: "in the Aboriginal tradition, the historical actions of various authorities were hardly conducive to the development of customary adoption." However, its survival clearly shows the strength of this practice. In addition, it is a real and contemporary of the specificity of indigenous cultures expression. »

Consultations were held in Aboriginal communities to document the State of customary adoption and to clarify how this practice could be incorporated in the legislation. "It was a remarkable work." This study to recognize not only the reality of customary adoption, but also its relevance which is well established in the ways of life of our people and our communities. "We are extremely pleased that the Government of Quebec is now able to adapt its legislation to meet the needs and expectations of our people," said Chief Picard.

Bill States expressly that "the conditions of Aboriginal custom in Quebec which is in harmony with the principles of the interest of the child, respect for his rights and the consent of the parties concerned, may replace the conditions for adoption by law." This legislative amendment will grant the right to families who have adopted a child under customary rules to exercise parental authority just as any other parent who has adopted a child according to the legal system.

For more information:

AFNQL
Eric Cardinal
Communications advisor
Cell phone: 514-258-2315
Eric@cardinalcommunication.com

View the original article here