R v. Sparrow

R v. Sparrow is a 1990 Canadian court case that clarified the rights of Indigenous peoples under the Canadian Constitution, specifically regarding fishing rights. Samuel Sparrow was charged with illegal fishing under federal laws, but the case questioned whether the government could unilaterally limit Indigenous fishing rights without proper consultation. The Supreme Court ruled that Indigenous fishing rights are constitutionally protected and cannot be taken away without proper negotiation and respect for Indigenous legal and treaty rights. This case established important principles about respecting Indigenous peoples’ rights and government obligations under the Constitution.