Provincial/territorial education laws apply on and off reserves but the federal government is supposed to pay for education on-reserves. If the federal government provides less money for schools and education, then the provinces/territories legislative governments typically do not top it up. This means First Nations children and youth across Canada get inequitable education just because they are First Nations and living on a reserve. 

Shannen's Dream serves as a reminder to continue hold the federal government accountable to honour their promise for safe and comfy schools for all First Nations children and youth.