U of T Law launches Aboriginal Youth Summer Program

The Aboriginal Youth Summer Program (AYSP) is a brand new program offered by the U of T Faculty of Law for Aboriginal high school students who are interested in the study of law. Selected students will spend a week living on-campus at U of T and learn about various aspects of the study of law, and how they intertwine with issues affecting Aboriginal Peoples. The Faculty is pleased to offer fully-subsidized spots to twenty Aboriginal youth in the summer of 2012.

The Faculty is inviting Aboriginal students currently enrolled in grades 10, 11 and 12 to spend one week at the Faculty of Law discussing legal concepts, learning about the reality of the Canadian legal system, and applying their knowledge to a variety of stimulating environments. There will be a strong focus on the intersection of law and the lives and circumstances of Aboriginal Peoples.

The AYSP offers an unprecedented opportunity to spend time in the fascinating world of Canadian and international law, legal thinking and advocacy. Taught by law students, professors, judges and lawyers, topics include criminal justice, such as sentencing and bail under Gladue court principles; property and Aboriginal title; constitutional law and the rights of Indigenous Peoples; international Aboriginal law; and intersections between Wampum and the common law. Students will observe these principles in action with field trips to such places as Toronto's Old City Hall Courthouse, Gladue Court, and Aboriginal law firms.

In addition to the enriching academic content, students get a taste of university life, with classes held in law classrooms at the Faculty of Law, overnight stays at New College and participating in events that showcase the immeasurable cultural opportunities offered by city of Toronto.

• See the program flyer (PDF)
• Download the application form (PDF)

For more information, contact Lisa Del Col, Aboriginal Law Program Coordinator, at lisa.delcol@utoronto.ca.