André Bear
Freelance contributor
André Bear, B.Ed, J.D. (He/Him) is a Nêhîyaw (Plains-Cree) educator and advocate of inherent and treaty rights. He’s a Juris Doctor graduate from the University of Saskatchewan and is now pursuing his master of laws. At 21 years of age, André was appointed as an advisor to the Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations Canada for the implementation of TRC Call to Action 66.
Latest from André Bear
Opinion
Maintaining the Canadian legal system is obstructing justice for Indigenous peoples
Although Indigenous peoples desperately need allies in the legal profession, at some point we should also recognize how the ongoing injustice seems to be paying off mortgages for many non-Indigenous professionals.
Canada -Saskatchewan |
Opinion
The James Smith Cree Nation tragedy reveals the critical need for First Nations-led policing
The tragedy in the James Smith Cree Nation has opened our eyes to the utter lack of safety provided to First Nations people on-reserve.
Canada -Saskatchewan |
Opinion
Indigenous Peoples must establish our own legal system in Canada
Like many law students, I began this journey believing I could make a difference by advocating for those still waiting to be heard. Nevertheless, even before law school, it was made clear to me that Canadian law is concrete and will likely never change.
Canada -Saskatchewan |
Opinion
Canada's 'wilful and reckless' treatment of Indigenous children continues
I remember being apprehended from my mother twice while I was a child. The worst part of the experience is seeing the look on mom’s face when you are taken away.
Canada -Saskatchewan |
First Person
As an Indigenous sovereigntist, I will vote in this year's federal election
'I will vote in this federal election because I have witnessed how the decisions made by governments can determine the quality of life of Indigenous children,' says Andre Bear, the former youth representative of the Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nation.
Canada -Saskatchewan |
Opinion
Canada's justice system treats Indigenous peoples as inherently criminal. This is why I'm becoming a lawyer
My earliest memory of law enforcement was the death of Neil Stonechild.
Canada -Saskatchewan |
Opinion
Many people claiming to be Indigenous do not share our collective experience
Today, it’s seemingly easy for people to claim Indigeneity and “self-declare” by checking a box when applying for school.
Canada -Saskatchewan |
First Person
How my adoptive father motivated me to revitalize Indigenous kinship law
My relationship with my dad was profoundly close, even though we were never related biologically. He was able to help transform my life and give me an important purpose — to uphold our spiritual law.
Canada -Saskatchewan |
Opinion
Whether or not you support Bill C-15, Canada passing it would be an important time in our history
It is an exciting but controversial time for Indian country.
Canada -Saskatchewan |
Opinion
1 year after Stanley verdict: it's time to 'open the floodgates' and put an end to entrenched racism
The current relationship between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples in this province has not improved. It’s 2019, and it’s time we take education seriously when it comes to challenging ourselves to be better human beings.
Canada -Saskatchewan |