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By Pete McIntyre

Syilx coalition

Indigenous cannabis leaders call for changes to federal act

Nov 23, 2022 | 6:00 AM

A gathering in the Vernon area that brought together stakeholders in the Indigenous cannabis industry, ended with a statement to the federal government.

The Syilx Cannabis Coalition is calling on Health Canada to make changes to the Cannabis Act that respect, support and protect the autonomy of Indigenous Peoples.

The resolution was developed on Nov. 19-20 by Indigenous community leaders, economic development professionals, lawyers, cannabis farmers, processors, retailers and special guests attending the 1st annual Cannabis Harvest Gathering and Potlatch on the traditional territory of the Syilx Okanagan People.

The resolution responds to an invitation from the federal government to provide feedback on the effectiveness of the Cannabis Act, which became law four years ago. Health Canada is leading the review and established a dedicated consultation process for Indigenous Peoples with an interest in cannabis legalization.

“Indigenous Peoples are already exercising their inherent rights to enact laws and regulations regarding economic development, trade, taxation, revenues, child welfare, language, health, wellness, safety and education policies as they relate to cannabis,” said Cory Brewer, president of the Syilx Cannabis Society. “These activities are tied to inherent jurisdiction and the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.

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In addition to responding to the federal request for feedback on the Act, gathering participants celebrated the annual harvest, shared stories about the medicinal benefits of cannabis, honoured policies of Indigenous governments and band councils.

A full summary of discussions and proposed next steps will be circulated to delegates and posted on the gathering website in the coming weeks.

RESOLUTION:

• The Government of Canada revise the Cannabis Act to acknowledge, respect, support and protect the autonomy of Indigenous Governments, inclusive of sovereign, traditional/hereditary systems/structures, executing laws and programs related to the production, distribution, sale, safety, trade, availability of medicines, consumption, possession and quality of cannabis within their traditional Territories.
• The Government of Canada ensure an Indigenous representative from B.C.’s Indigenous cannabis industry is appointed to the Cannabis Act review’s expert panel.
• In association with revising the Cannabis Act to respect and support the autonomy of Indigenous Peoples, ensure the current medicinal cannabis program is maintained and strengthened.