We are proud to have one of the highest enrollment numbers of Indigenous law students in Canada. Since 1975, hundreds of Indigenous students have graduated from the law school. Many of these graduates are now leaders who have helped to redefine Indigenous legal issues in Canada. Our alumni include Jody Wilson-Raybould, former Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada; the late Judge Alfred Scow, the first Aboriginal lawyer and judge in British Columbia; and The Honourable Steven Point, former Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia and recently appointed Chancellor of UBC.
With strong support from faculty members, staff, and students associated with Indigenous Legal Studies, the Allard School of Law recruits and supports Indigenous law students, offers courses in Aboriginal and Indigenous law, conducts research often in partnership with Indigenous peoples and nations, provides legal assistance to Indigenous peoples through the Indigenous Community Legal Clinic in the Downtown Eastside, and generally fosters a greater understanding of the place of Indigenous peoples in Canadian society and abroad.
Specialization in Aboriginal Law
Provides JD students an opportunity to be recognized for concentrating studies on courses related to Indigenous legal issues.
Kawaskimhon (Aboriginal Rights) Moot
Students gain valuable insights by being coached by practicing lawyers and experiencing multi party consensus based negotiations on Indigenous legal issues with teams from across Canada.
Indigenous Community Legal Clinic
The clinic provides students with the opportunity to gain practical hands-on experience , while serving a historically under-served and marginalized community.
Student Support
We offer a diverse range of academic, cultural, and career support to Indigenous students.
Indigenous Cultural Competency Certificate
Participants in this program are exposed to concepts and materials on decolonization, Indigenous laws, and Elder-led teachings.
Indigenous Features at Allard Hall
Allard Hall includes several features designed to reflect Musqueam culture and the role of Musqueam.
Contact Us
There is a dedicated team of faculty, staff and students here to answer your questions. Explore ILS committee member and Indigenous faculty profiles.
