Economic Autonomy
Aboriginal communities do not want to rely on the government to live: the First Nations and Inuit work to create jobs and businesses that allow them to be economically independent. Tourism, harvesting natural resources, such as wood, and hunting and fishing businesses are examples of companies in the communities. They allow many Aboriginal people to live well. These businesses are also profitable for non-Aboriginal people, who can visit extraordinary places and sample delicious food.
Political autonomy
In the old days, Aboriginal people governed themselves. Under the Indian Act, the First Nations and Inuit gradually lost their decision-making powers. In the 20th century, Aboriginal people regained some of these powers, such as education and health care. However, there is still a great deal of work to be done so that the First Peoples can make their own decisions concerning land management and living conditions on the reserves. Aboriginal youth who go into politics often do so specifically to promote their desire for autonomy, a way to ensure the survival of their cultures.