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The Harper government was famous for its omnibus bills. These undemocratic pieces of legislation were often more than 400 pages long and amended numerous unrelated pieces of legislation. These monstrosities were pushed through Parliament despite opposition complaints.

In March 2012 the government introduced a budget omnibus bill C-45 that amended 64 acts or regulations including the Indian Act, the Navigation Protection Act (former Navigable Waters Protection Act) and the Environmental Assessment Act.

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First Nations were not consulted even though the legislation had a direct effect on First Nations’ treaty and Aboriginal rights. As a result, four women in Saskatchewan organized an event to discuss the fallout from Bill C-45. Jessica Gordon, Sheelah McLean, Sylvia McAdam and Nina Wilson were concerned the bill would erode treaty and Aboriginal rights.

This led to the formation of the Idle No More movement; demonstrations and round dances were held across Canada. It became obvious to those in power that Indigenous people were fighting back, and things were changing.

The legal process moves much slower, and this week the Mikisew Cree band in Alberta brought its case to the Supreme Court of Canada. The Mikisew Cree are seeking a judicial review of the changes in the omnibus bills that affect treaty rights.