By Alessia Passafiume It’s one of the most important laws in Canada’s history, it’s widely loathed by the people it affects — and most Canadians know little about it. The Indian Act, which dates from 1876, gives Ottawa sweeping powers over First Nations communities and people, including the authority to decide who qualifies for status and what reserves can and can’t do. While the law is heavily criticized by First Nations leaders and people, it also protects reserve lands. Status under the Indian Act entitles people to certain health and social services. On Monday, during a historic gathering of federal, provincial and First Nations leaders in Ottawa, Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew pitched the idea of abolishing the Indian Act. Prime Minister Mark Carney said he was “very open to” the…
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