No, Indigenous people are not coming for your privately owned land

Despite how fearmongering politicians and pundits are framing the landmark Cowichan decision, the legal test for proving Aboriginal title is extremely difficult for most First Nations to meet.

Through the courts and more enlightened government policy, historical wrongs have been righted. There is still much work to be done, and the progress made in recent years is still relatively fragile, writes Corey Shefman.The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

Opinion

BY COREY SHEFMAN

December 18, 2025

Despite what you may have read in recent weeks, Indigenous people—with the help of the courts—are not coming to seize your privately owned land.

To keep reading, subscribe and become a political insider.

Only $7.76 a week for an annual subscription.

Enjoy unlimited website access and the digital newspaper.

Cancel anytime.

Already a Subscriber?

Get Weekend Point of View Newsletter

A round up of the past weekâ€™s opinion writers and columnists on Saturdays and Sundays.

By entering your email address you consent to receive email from The Hill Times containing news, analysis, updates and offers. You may unsubscribe at any time. See our privacy policy