The Indian Act is a Canadian federal law enacted in 1876 that governs the relationship between the government and Indigenous peoples in Canada. It outlines the rights and responsibilities of registered Indigenous individuals and communities, including provisions for governance, land use, and education. The Act has undergone several amendments over the years, reflecting changing attitudes towards Indigenous rights. The Indian Act also defines who is considered a member of an Indigenous community, often leading to disputes over identity and membership. While it was intended to protect Indigenous rights, many criticize it for imposing colonial structures and limiting self-determination among Indigenous peoples.