Hon. Marion Buller

Indigenous peoples have a long-standing history and tradition of law that continues to shape their interactions and relationships with the land, each other, and the world. Join The Honourable Marion Buller, a respected figure in the Canadian judiciary and a stalwart advocate for Indigenous rights, as she unpacks the intricate relationship between traditional laws and Indigenous rights.

In this engaging presentation, Marion Buller will take us through a deep exploration of traditional Indigenous laws, their significance within Indigenous communities, and their role in shaping Indigenous rights. She will highlight how these traditional laws, informed by generations of cultural knowledge and wisdom, contribute to the self-governance, cultural preservation, and social cohesion of Indigenous communities.

Using her vast experience in the justice system, Buller will discuss how these traditional laws can intersect with Western legal systems, enriching them with perspectives based on reciprocity, respect, and responsibility. She will also delve into the challenges Indigenous communities face in asserting their traditional laws within a predominantly Western legal framework.

Furthermore, Marion Buller will illuminate how understanding and respecting these traditional laws is integral to realizing Indigenous rights, addressing historical injustices, and promoting reconciliation. She will underscore the importance of education, dialogue, and policy reform in ensuring that traditional laws are recognized and upheld. This presentation offers a profound look into the intersection of traditional laws and Indigenous rights, reaffirming the vital importance of Indigenous legal traditions in the pursuit of justice, reconciliation, and a more equitable society.

In a justice system often seen through a narrow lens, The Honourable Marion Buller, the first Indigenous woman judge in British Columbia, has persistently championed a broader, more inclusive perspective. This insightful presentation delves into her groundbreaking work advocating for Indigenous rights within the justice system, unmasking the distinct challenges that Indigenous communities face, including bias, discrimination, and disproportionately high rates of incarceration. Leveraging her extensive experience as a civil and criminal lawyer, a provincial judge, and as the Chief Commissioner of the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG), Buller will guide the audience through a journey of understanding the strides made and the barriers that persist.

A key focus will be her transformative role in the establishment of the First Nations Courts of British Columbia, an initiative that successfully wove restorative justice principles and traditional Indigenous wisdom into the fabric of the legal process. Marion Buller will present an in-depth analysis of the progress achieved and the obstacles that persist. She will center her discussion on her vital role in establishing the First Nations Courts of British Columbia, a pivotal initiative that integrates restorative justice principles and traditional Indigenous practices from community leaders into the judicial process.

Through the Aboriginal Family Healing Court, an innovative step in addressing the complex issues surrounding the return of Indigenous children to their families Judge Marion Buller will explore challenges and viable philosophy and knowledge from the community for reforming a system to be more equitable, inclusive and respectful of Indigenous rights and cultures. in this session includes researched and proven strategies that require to be implemented in each district court, such as expanding education on Indigenous rights, ensuring more comprehensive representation within the justice system, and the need for sustained commitment from governments, legal institutions, and communities. With a preventative outlook, this presentation underscores the ongoing work required in the pursuit of justice for Indigenous populations within the justice system.

The Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) of Canada’s 94 Calls to Action represent a vital roadmap towards healing and justice for Indigenous communities in Canada. The Honourable Marion Buller, the first Indigenous woman judge in British Columbia, has been an active participant and advocate in this journey. In this thought-provoking presentation, Buller will delve into the current state of these Calls to Action, exploring where we stand, the progress made, and the crucial work that still lies ahead.

With her unique lens as a legal expert, a provincial judge, and the Chief Commissioner of the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG), Buller will offer a comprehensive examination of the Calls to Action. She will critically assess their implementation, highlighting both the successful initiatives and the areas in need of urgent attention.

Going beyond the analysis, Marion Buller will share concrete strategies to accelerate the realization of the Calls to Action. This includes engaging in meaningful partnerships with Indigenous communities, integrating Indigenous knowledge and perspectives into policy-making, and fostering greater commitment from governments, institutions, and individuals alike.

A key theme will be the interconnectedness of the Calls to Action with the wider justice system and how implementing them can contribute to more equitable and respectful treatment of Indigenous populations. This presentation emphasizes the collective responsibility we all share in the path to reconciliation and the transformative potential of the TRC’s Calls to Action when fully realized.

In a world where the dynamics of power, culture, and knowledge often favour Western institutions, the significance of blending Indigenous traditions in these systems becomes increasingly paramount. Join The Honourable Marion Buller, a prominent figure in Canadian justice and Indigenous rights advocacy, as she navigates the complexities and opportunities that arise from the confluence of Indigenous traditions and Western institutions.

In this enlightening discussion, Buller will highlight the necessity of integrating Indigenous traditions within Western frameworks, not just for the purpose of inclusion, but to enrich these systems with the diversity, wisdom, and resilience embedded in Indigenous ways of life. From the justice system to educational structures, Buller will provide critical insights into the benefits of a blended system, citing practical examples from her extensive career. She will discuss how these blended systems can address systemic biases, foster reconciliation, and build a more inclusive and equitable society.

Marion Buller will also tackle the challenges inherent in such an integration, shedding light on the societal and institutional changes required to facilitate this process. Moreover, she will discuss the role of community leaders, educators, policymakers, and individuals in promoting and sustaining these blended systems. This presentation will not only unravel the potential of blended systems in fostering cultural understanding, mutual respect, and socio-economic progress, but also offer a blueprint for how we can collectively work towards this integration. It underscores the importance of incorporating Indigenous traditions into Western institutions for a more inclusive, balanced, and enriched societal structure.

Restorative justice, deeply rooted in Indigenous culture and tradition, offers a holistic and healing-oriented approach to conflict resolution and justice. The Honourable Marion Buller, the first Indigenous woman judge in British Columbia, has been a staunch advocate for the integration of restorative justice principles into the Canadian legal system. In this enriching presentation, Buller will explore the nuances of Indigenous restorative justice, its application in practice, and the transformative potential it holds for the broader justice system.

Drawing upon her vast experience as a provincial judge, a civil and criminal lawyer, and the Chief Commissioner of the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG), Buller will provide an in-depth examination of the core principles of Indigenous restorative justice. She will delve into how these principles contrast with the punitive focus of the traditional justice system, highlighting the potential for healing, reconciliation, and community building that restorative justice offers.

Buller will also discuss the practical application of restorative justice, with a particular focus on the First Nations Courts of British Columbia, which she was instrumental in establishing. These innovative courts integrate Indigenous traditions and restorative justice principles into the sentencing process, illustrating the tangible ways in which restorative justice can be realized within the legal framework.

Furthermore, Buller will explore the broader implications of incorporating Indigenous restorative justice into the Canadian legal system, including the potential for improving relationships with Indigenous communities, reducing recidivism rates, and contributing to reconciliation efforts. This presentation emphasizes the need for continued adaptation and learning within the justice system, guided by Indigenous knowledge and practice.

The overrepresentation of Indigenous and First Nation children in the Canadian foster care system is a deeply rooted issue that calls for immediate and transformative action. The Honourable Marion Buller, the first Indigenous woman judge in British Columbia, has long advocated for the rights of these children within the justice system. In this impactful presentation, Buller will unpack the systemic issues leading to this overrepresentation and explore the urgent need for reform.

Drawing from her extensive experience as a provincial judge, a civil and criminal lawyer, and the Chief Commissioner of the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG), Buller provides an insightful examination of the foster care system from an Indigenous perspective. She will delve into the systemic barriers that disproportionately push Indigenous children into foster care and prevent them from returning to their families and communities.

Not only will Buller examine the challenges, but she will also spotlight the transformative solutions, with a particular focus on her role in the establishment of the Aboriginal Family Healing Court. This innovative court initiative has taken crucial steps in addressing the return of Indigenous children to their families.

In addition to sharing these unique insights, Buller will offer strategic solutions for creating a foster care system that respects Indigenous rights and cultures. These include enhancing cultural competency within the system, strengthening partnerships with Indigenous communities, and championing policy changes that prioritize keeping Indigenous children within their families and communities where possible. This presentation underscores the imperative work ahead and the collective responsibility needed to create a just and respectful foster care system for Indigenous and First Nation children.

The role of Indigenous women in family and community structures is fundamental and multifaceted. As caregivers, knowledge-keepers, and community builders, their influence stretches across generations. The Honourable Marion Buller, the first Indigenous woman judge in British Columbia, has consistently advocated for the recognition and reinforcement of this role. In this enlightening presentation, Buller will delve into the unique challenges and opportunities surrounding Indigenous women in these structures and discuss the path to their revitalization.

Drawing from her extensive experience as a provincial judge, a civil and criminal lawyer, and the Chief Commissioner of the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG), Buller provides a comprehensive analysis of the current state of Indigenous family and community structures. She will highlight the systemic barriers that undermine Indigenous women’s roles in these structures and the profound impact this has on their communities.

Marion Buller will also discuss her instrumental role in establishing the Aboriginal Family Healing Court, which has begun to reimagine how Indigenous family structures are recognized and supported within the justice system. This initiative has laid the groundwork for new models of care that prioritize the return of Indigenous children to their families and communities, a process in which Indigenous women play a pivotal role.

Not only diagnosing the issues, Marion Buller will also propose strategic paths towards the reinvention and strengthening of Indigenous community and family structures. These include fostering cultural understanding and respect within external systems, advocating for policies that empower Indigenous women, and championing Indigenous-led initiatives. This presentation underscores the crucial work ahead in revitalizing the role of Indigenous women within their communities and families.

Education can serve as a powerful catalyst for change and reconciliation, particularly when it comes to bridging the gap of understanding about Indigenous rights and histories. The Honourable Marion Buller, the first Indigenous woman judge in British Columbia, has long recognized the significance of education in addressing the systemic inequities facing Indigenous communities. In this enlightening presentation, Buller will delve into the transformative role education can play in fostering understanding and promoting reconciliation.

Drawing from her substantial experience as a provincial judge, a civil and criminal lawyer, and the Chief Commissioner of the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG), Buller will explore the current state of education regarding Indigenous rights and histories in Canada. She will highlight the gaps and misconceptions that persist and the detrimental impact they have on the relationship between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities.

Marion Buller will also explore how educational systems and curricula can be reshaped to provide a more inclusive, accurate, and comprehensive understanding of Indigenous histories, contributions, and rights. She will highlight successful initiatives and strategies that have been employed to advance this objective and the positive outcomes they have yielded.

Furthermore, Marion Buller will illuminate how education extends beyond formal schooling and into our everyday interactions, emphasizing the role each individual plays in reconciliation. She will provide insights into how we can foster a culture of learning and understanding that respects and acknowledges the history and rights of Indigenous peoples.

Indigenous leadership is a multifaceted domain that transcends conventional boundaries. It encapsulates community responsibility, accessibility to systems and services, and the restoration and preservation of cultural community practices. Join The Honourable Marion Buller, the first Indigenous woman judge in British Columbia, as she delves into these critical components of Indigenous leadership. Buller presents concepts focusing on community responsibility, underscoring how Indigenous leaders can foster an ethos of shared responsibility and collective action.

She will discuss the current challenges Indigenous communities face in accessing essential services, from education and health care to legal systems, and how Indigenous leaders can advocate for and facilitate better access. Judge Marion Buller underscores the value of traditional practices, knowledge, and culture. She will elaborate on how Indigenous leaders can drive efforts to revive and preserve these elements, strengthening community ties and promoting community pride through their history.

Strong communities are the bedrock of society, and for Indigenous people, the strength of community is deeply intertwined with cultural traditions, families, youth, education, and their teachers. In this presentation, The Honourable Marion Buller, the first Indigenous woman judge in British Columbia, will discuss the immense potential that lies in empowering Indigenous communities through these crucial elements.

Drawing on her extensive experience as a judge, lawyer, and Chief Commissioner of the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG), Buller will explore how Indigenous communities can be strengthened through a renewed focus on traditional culture, familial structures, and education.

This presentation highlights the role of traditional culture in shaping the identity, resilience, and unity of Indigenous communities. Buller will discuss the importance of families and their role in preserving culture, nurturing youth, and instilling values. She will also highlight the integral role teachers play in transmitting knowledge and values to the next generation, both within and beyond the walls of schools.

A primary focus will be the empowerment of Indigenous youth through education. Buller will shed light on how education, tailored to be culturally relevant and inclusive, can equip Indigenous youth to become agents of change, capable of shaping a brighter future for their communities. Buller will discuss strategies to harness the potential of education, cultural preservation, and familial support to uplift Indigenous communities. She will underscore the collective responsibility of schools, educators, families, governments, and society at large in fostering an environment that truly serves and empowers Indigenous communities. This presentation will highlight the interconnected nature of tradition, family, education, and youth in building stronger, resilient, and thriving Indigenous communities.

In a time when the importance of inclusive education is increasingly recognized, the integration of Indigenous knowledge in curriculum forms a pivotal part of a comprehensive educational approach. Join The Honourable Marion Buller, a trailblazer in the Canadian justice system and an advocate for Indigenous rights, as she delves into the significance of incorporating Indigenous tradition and culture into education.

Buller will explore how such integration not only respects and acknowledges Indigenous heritage, but also enriches the learning experience for all students. She will discuss the impact of this educational reform on Indigenous students, focusing on the role it plays in fostering identity, pride, and success among these learners.

The presentation will further elaborate on the practical aspects of implementing Indigenous knowledge in curriculum design, including the involvement of Indigenous elders and community members, and the teaching of Indigenous languages and history. Buller will also discuss the legal and policy implications, and how they can be navigated to achieve this meaningful integration.

Marion Buller will touch upon the benefits of this integration for non-Indigenous students, focusing on fostering mutual respect, cultural understanding, and reconciliation. This session underscores the importance of enriching the Canadian educational landscape through the inclusion of Indigenous knowledge. The insights shared will not only provide a unique perspective but also present a roadmap for educators, policymakers, and community leaders on how to actualize this in their respective educational settings.