On behalf of Aboriginal Legal Services (ALS), we are excited to announce our new Aboriginal Legal Services E-Newsletter. Our E-newsletter will allow ALS to share updates, provide information on programs and services we offer, a calendar of events, community outreach, and provide legal information on matters that affect Indigenous people.
Aboriginal Legal Services (formerly Aboriginal Legal Services of Toronto) was established on February 21, 1990. ALS was formed following a need for a legal related program for Indigenous people living in the Greater Toronto Area. Aboriginal Legal Services is governed by a Board of Directors that provides support and direction to the Executive Director. ALS’s mission is to strengthen the capacity of the Aboriginal community and its citizens to deal with justice issues and provide Aboriginal-controlled and culturally-based justice alternatives.
Since its inception, ALS has grown substantially, including the creation of a Legal Clinic. The ALS Legal Clinic provides legal services such as Criminal and Family matters, Victim Advocacy, and Tenants Rights. In addition, the Legal Clinic participates in Inquests where there has been harm or injustices done to Indigenous people involved in the justice system. In addition, they offer training and public legal information and workshops. The Legal Clinic provides healing opportunities such as the Culture to Wellness Program.
Aboriginal Legal Services Inc. provides programs and services for Indigenous people such as the Aboriginal Court Worker program, Community Council (Alternate Dispute Resolution), Gladue Writers and Caseworkers, Correctional Liaison Worker, Road to Your Name podcasts, and the Giiwedin Anang Council (Indigenous Family Dispute Resolution). The programs and services are based on culturally and holistic methodologies in consultation with our in-house Elder.
Aboriginal Legal Services provides ongoing training in the areas of Aboriginal Court Workers Training, Gladue Training, Restorative Justice, and other justice-related training. ALS prides itself in providing training that is culturally responsive to the needs of Indigenous people. ALS cultural practices such as cultural teachings, smudging, drumming, medicine wheel teachings, and holistic healing.
Aboriginal Legal Services will continue to strive to provide support and guidance for Indigenous people involved the justice system. We recognize that years of colonial policies and laws have been used a tool to oppress and contribute to the overrepresentation of Indigenous people in the justice system. To address these injustices, ALS will continue to provide services that will help contribute to reducing recidivism, addressing the overrepresentation of Indigenous people, and healing.
Chantell Barker
Getchi Nodin Ikwe (Deer Clan)
Executive Director