Investing According To Indigenous Tradition: An Assessment of Indigenous Laws and Investment

Abstract

Indigenous peoples have inhabited North America since time immemorial, using Indigenous laws as guiding principles on how to live sustainably. However, since European contact, Indigenous communities have seen their roles in planning for the future progressively eroded. Now that many new and modem investment opportunities are presenting themselves to Indigenous communities, some guidance on making the right investment decisions may be needed. The authors argue that because European laws and policies have historically not accommodated the unique requirements of Indigenous communities, communities may choose to apply proven Indigenous laws when making sustainable investment decisions today.