Navigating Neoliberalism
Navigating Neoliberalism
Self-Determination and the Mikisew Cree First Nation
What happens to a First Nation after the successful negotiation of a land claim? Navigating Neoliberalism argues that neoliberalism, which drives government policy concerning First Nations in Canada, can also drive self-determination. And in a globalizing world, new opportunities for indigenous governance may transform socioeconomic well-being.
Gabrielle Slowey studies the development of First Nations governance in health, education, economic development, and housing. What emerges is a theoretical and empirical case study of one First Nation, the Mikisew Cree, as it navigates its way through neoliberalism. Contrary to the popular belief that First Nations suffer in an age of state retrenchment, privatization, and decentralization, Slowey finds that the Mikisew First Nation has successfully exploited opportunities for greater autonomy and well-being that the current political and economic climate has presented.
Navigating Neoliberalism tackles a topical issue central to Canadian politics and Canadian federalism.
It will be of interest to students and practitioners of public policy, political economy, and political science, as well as members and leaders in First Nations communities.
Ms. Slowey presents a highly thought-provoking treatise on the development of self governance for First Nations peoples and it will certainly be a useful resource for all aboriginals in their search for a desirable and workable solution to their demand for justice. Lawyers working through the land claims process towards indigenous governance will find this to be a valuable text.
This type of case study is a valuable contribution to a field that needs case studies in order to substantiate what is working or not working with Aboriginal First Nations. I believe it will be important for scholars as well as practitioners in First Nations and Indian Affairs.
Introduction
Abbreviations
1 Meeting Mikisew
2 Neoliberalism Now
3 Searching for Self-Determination
4 The Politics of Change
5 The Economics of Change
6 Transforming First Nations Governance
Notes; References; Index
