Why King Charles’ Visit is Important for Treaty First Nations – First Peoples Law
May 27, 2025
By inviting King Charles to deliver the throne speech at the opening of parliament this week, Prime Minister Carney has unintentionally created an opportunity to reset the relationship between the Crown and Treaty First Nations.
As I explain in my new book, the courts have gradually driven a wedge between Treaty First Nations and the Crown as represented by the Queen or King.
Over the objections of Treaty First Nations, the courts (both in England and in Canada) have adopted the view that Canada has stepped into the monarch’s shoes as treaty partner. Treaty First Nations have held fast to their position that their treaty partner is the Queen or King.
