A reserve is an area where members of an Aboriginal nation most often live. However, this territory does not belong to them. It is the property of the Canadian government.
The reserve is managed by the band council, which is made up of men and women leaders and administrators. The band council is governed by a special law, different from that of non-Aboriginal cities and villages.
The Nations also have hunting and fishing rights over larger territories. However, these rights must be negotiated with the governments of Quebec and Canada.
Today in Quebec, over 60 % of Aboriginal people live outside the reserves. Many live in the city to study, work or obtain services.