The B.C. Assembly of First Nations (BCAFN) and the Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs (UBCIC) are urging Parliament to move quickly on key amendments to Bill S-2, following a significant decision by the Standing Senate Committee on Indigenous Peoples. The committee has recommended eliminating the second-generation cut-off in the Indian Act and restoring a one-parent rule for Indian Status—changes that First Nations leaders say are essential to ending decades of legislated discrimination.
The second-generation cut-off, introduced in 1985, prevents status from being passed on after two generations of parenting with a non-status person. First Nations advocates warn that if the rule remains in place, it will lead to the legal extinction of status First Nations people within a few generations.
BCAFN and UBCIC say the committee’s recommended amendments reflect expert evidence and align with Canada’s obligations under the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act. They emphasize that the Senate and House of Commons now have a clear opportunity to remove discriminatory barriers that have harmed First Nations women, families, and descendants for decades.
The Senate vote is scheduled for November 27, 2025, followed by consideration in the House of Commons. First Nations leadership, community members, and impacted families can learn more at a BCAFN–UBCIC webinar on December 12. Registration is available through BCAFN events.
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