How will the Law be passed?
Developing the Law is a community-driven process. Anishinaabek Wiidosendiwak’s Working Group, supported by Fogler Rubinoff LLP and Avaanz, is leading the steps toward drafting and ratifying the Law.
Where We Are and Where We’re Headed
HIFN’s journey to establish the Anishinaabek Wiidosendiwak Law is guided by community engagement and expert support. Key milestones include:
Ongoing since 2024
Community Engagements
Ongoing since 2024
HIFN, with support from a consultant and lawyer, have been engaging with community members on the Law since 2024. This includes listening to families, Elders, and youth to understand needs, priorities, and community perspectives that will directly shape the Law.
Fall, 2025
Drafting the Law
Fall, 2025
Fogler Rubinoff LLP is preparing a draft Law that reflects HIFN’s input, aligns with Bill C-92, and ensures legal clarity while respecting Anishinaabe teachings.
Winter, 2025 to Spring, 2026 (tentative)
Review and Ratification
Winter, 2025 to Spring, 2026 (tentative)
HIFN members will review the draft of the Law, provide feedback, and participate in a community process to approve the Law before formal adoption.
To Be Determined
Coordination Agreement
To Be Determined
HIFN will negotiate agreements with Canada and Ontario to implement the Law and transfer responsibility for child and family wellbeing services to Anishinaabek Wiidosendiwak.
Our Next Steps
Gather community feedback to refine the draft Law and develop HIFN’s child and family wellbeing organization.
Share updates with families and community partners about progress and incorporate the Anishinaabek Wiidosendiwak organization.
Prepare for the Law to be formally ratified by HIFN members.
Plan to transition the Band Representative Program to Anishinaabek Wiidosendiwak Child and Family Wellbeing.
The People Behind the Law
HIFN’s Law development is guided by the Anishinaabek Wiidosendiwak Working Group, made up of community members, as well as members of the Band Representative team.
Partner Organizations
Avaanz supports community engagement on the Law; Fogler Rubinoff LLP drafts the Law for community ratification.
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Avaanz
Community Engagement and Project Management
Avaanz partners with clients to promote community prosperity and well-being. They serve a wide range of clients both in Canada and internationally, including Indigenous organizations, governments, and industry.
Avaanz is working with HIFN to understand and communicate what the community needs for the future Law to be successful, as well as engaging project partners, community members, and funders.
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Fogler Rubinoff LLP
Legal Services
Fogler Rubinoff LLP provides legal expertise in Indigenous child and family law.
They draft legislation, ensure compliance with Bill C-92, advise on governance, review legal obligations under provincial and federal frameworks, and support HIFN in formal agreements with governments, all while respecting HIFN’s values, culture, and community input.
More About Our Organization
The Anishinaabek Wiidosendiwak Working Group and partners are working diligently to draft and pass the Law. Our organization includes a team and governance structures that oversee family services and resources.
