BC Treaty Commission annual report - 2023
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The 2023 Annual Report of the BC Treaty Commission, released on October 18, 2023, highlights progress in treaty negotiations and policy innovations aimed at advancing reconciliation. Key points include the reinstatement of s.87 tax-exemptions under modern treaties, innovative negotiation approaches, and discussions on enforcing First Nations laws. Eight Modern Treaty Nations and 30 self-defined First Nations are in active negotiations. Chief Commissioner Celeste Haldane underscores the commitment to modern treaties as adaptable, living agreements that signal a move away from the status quo and the extinguishment of rights. For the full report, visit www.bctreaty.ca or contact Sashia Leung, Director of International Relations & Communications for more information.
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Negotiations Update - BC Treaty Commission
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The BC treaty negotiations process is voluntary and open to all First Nations in British Columbia. Since the beginning there are 65 self-determining First Nations, representing over half of all Indian Act bands in BC, that have entered and participated in, or have completed treaties through the treaty negotiations process.
Active or completed negotiations involve 39 self-determining First Nations, representing 72 current or former Indian Act bands, totaling 36% of all Indian Act bands in BC. For statistical purposes, the Treaty Commission continues to refer to “Indian Act bands” to provide a common reference point. A “First Nation” in the BC treaty negotiations process is a self-defined governing body, established and mandated by its people within its traditional territory in BC to enter into negotiations with Canada and British Columbia. The BCTC Agreement and legislation set out this principle of self-definition, and is consistent with the right to self-determination affirmed in the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. For the most recent information on each negotiations, please see the latest annual report. For further information about the negotiation tables, please visit the BC Treaty Commission website. |
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BC Treaty commission 30th anniversary annual report - 2022
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View the annual report online. Scan QR code or go to BC Treaty Commission website.
Material covered range from the origin of the BC Treaty Commission and the BC Claims Task Force recommendations to the implementation reports of successful Treaty Nations. The Tsimshian Treaty Society administers funding for five of the seven communities in the Tsimshian Nation that are actively involved with the treaty process. Each community has their own table except Kitsumkalum and Kitselas who sit at the same table each month. Any details that are specific to each community is discussed separately, most common issues are discussed together. Also included in this report is a time line of treaty talks in BC since the Commission was formed and the agreement was made with the Crown Government's to negotiate. |
The Swimmers
To Indigenous People, Salmon is the Spirit That Swims
The Swimmers short documentary, shows the importance of the Salmon to First Nations how their cycle shows a clear display of the health of mother nature.
Swimmers, is produced by Bev Sellars and contains powerful messages about the importance of indigenous laws which align with the laws of nature. The Northern Secwepemc te Qelmucw (NStQ) treaty team is using the video in their community engagement sessions, it is relevant to their objectives in treaty.
Swimmers, is produced by Bev Sellars and contains powerful messages about the importance of indigenous laws which align with the laws of nature. The Northern Secwepemc te Qelmucw (NStQ) treaty team is using the video in their community engagement sessions, it is relevant to their objectives in treaty.
tSimshian first nation prepare to finalize agreements
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Kitsumkalum and Kitselas First Nation met this week to strategize and set the course toward achieving a “handshake” on their final agreement(s) within the next two years.
As we roll into a post-COVID world, the way negotiations occur has evolved with the times. Though some officials prefer to hold discussions via ZOOM, this table will go back to their pre-COVID schedule, 2 ½ -3 Days per month. There have been many advancements in recent years including monumental shifts within the Federal and Provincial Crown governments. Some of the most recent include loosening up on Section 87 of the Indian Act. Treaty nations will not have to surrender their exemption status, and in a Post-Treaty world, things will look the same for First Nations working and shopping on IR land. The implementation of the United Nations Declaration of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP). The Final Agreement will bind into a living document that can be re-visited for re-negotiation as time goes on. Stay tuned to this page of our website for updates and news information. |
Valuable information about self-government post treaty
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Having been governed by the Indian act for a few generations, some Tsimshian Nation communities are approaching the end of treaty negotiations. Within the past decade, many changes will benefit other nations that decide to pursue self-government.
Kitselas, Kitsumkalum, and Metlakatla provided much of the force that caused many of the improvements, such as sec 87 Tax exemption, Treaty Agreement equals a living document that will keep the table open for further negotiation down the line should there need to be. |
Thank you We Wai Kai Nation for creating this public information broadcast.
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Progress has been a long time coming and the pace has picked up!
Canada announced a major policy change which will ensure treaty will not result in a first nation being forced to give up tax status on Reserve Lands or previously designated IR’s which are converted to treaty settlement lands.
Canada announces this change in recognition of and as a component of their approach to reconciliation and realization of self-determination which is a positive action – which did not come easily as a number of first nations including ‘lead tables’ such as Kitsumkalum, Kitselas and Metlakatla have been promoting this reality for a number of years as a necessary outcome to achieve treaty agreements.
Other significant changes of late include:
- The current federal policy and practice has been that first nations have lost tax status in a phased in 8 and 12 year period after Implementation of treaty (ie. Nisga’a, Tsawwassen, Maa-nulth).
Canada announces this change in recognition of and as a component of their approach to reconciliation and realization of self-determination which is a positive action – which did not come easily as a number of first nations including ‘lead tables’ such as Kitsumkalum, Kitselas and Metlakatla have been promoting this reality for a number of years as a necessary outcome to achieve treaty agreements.
- I am particularly pleased that Mark Stevenson, Treaty and Legal Advisor and Bill Stipdonk, Fiscal Advisor to these three tables has been at the forefront of efforts on our behalf in organizing other lead tables in the Province and their advisors for a consistent and systematic process to achieve this change.
Other significant changes of late include:
- Recognition and Implementation of the Declaration of Indigenous People’s,
- Provisions for Periodic Renewal so that treaty can be reviewed and re-opened in future.
reconciliation, besides monthly financial bank duties, what does it mean?
click on image to open magazine
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Leadership and the role that corporate Canada has to play in reconciliation.
Check out this issue of Director Journal for numerous thought provoking articles to shed light on Indigenous perspectives around the leadership table. These articles aim to build knowledge and strengthen respect among teams of directors seeking to advance the reconciliation process and maximize potential of our society. Since the publication of this issue, British Columbia joined Ontario by implementing mandatory indigenous studies for graduating high school. |
“In the end, reconciliation is a spiritual process, which requires more than just a legal framework. It has to happen in the heart and minds of people”
Nelson Mandela, circa 2012
Nelson Mandela, circa 2012
Nisg̱a'a nation commemorates modern treaty
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CONGRATULATIONS to Nisg̱a'a Nation! Today, you celebrate the 22nd anniversary of being free from the Indian Act. May 11, 2000, the Nisg̱a’a Final Agreement came into effect. After 113 years seeking freedom from the Indian Act, the First Nation regained power and control over their lands and governance. The Nation mark’s the event during the week-long special assembly of the Nisg̱a’a Nation. The theme is “Through the Generations – With Resilience and Vision – Working Today for a Prosperous Tomorrow.”
"We are very happy that we can commemorate the 22nd anniversary of the Nisg̱a'a Final Agreement (the "Nisg̱a'a Treaty") at our biennial Special Assembly of the Nisg̱a'a Nation. There has been much anticipation for us to gather for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic. We appreciate the government-to-government relationship the Nisg̱a'a Nation has with Canada and British Columbia, realized through the Nisg̱a'a Treaty." |
May 11, 2022
Team feature: crown provincial negotiators
The First Nation Summit Chief Negotiator session for September 2021 had a presentation by Mr. Peter Walters, giving an overview of the mechanisms of the provincial government behind the negotiators at your table.
Tripartite talks that are decades in the making indicate the importance of establishing government to government relationships. The bureaucracy of government might not be the most interesting subject to seek to understand, but Mr. Peter Walters does a nice job in explaining government structure of the province.
A theme at the summit was concern around the time spent waiting for the crown governments movement on action items and catching up new negotiators as there seems to be a high turn-over rate. It is imperative to have the right people at the table.
These videos and more can be found at www.peterwalters.ca
Tripartite talks that are decades in the making indicate the importance of establishing government to government relationships. The bureaucracy of government might not be the most interesting subject to seek to understand, but Mr. Peter Walters does a nice job in explaining government structure of the province.
A theme at the summit was concern around the time spent waiting for the crown governments movement on action items and catching up new negotiators as there seems to be a high turn-over rate. It is imperative to have the right people at the table.
These videos and more can be found at www.peterwalters.ca
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Kitasoo elected government
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Congratulations to Kitasoo leadership team!
Chief councillor Doug Neasloss is back in the chief councilor chair with the Kitasoo council team for the next two years. Unless a First Nations Indian Act Band council passes their own election code, First Nation's communities go to the poles every two years and elect their leadership. |
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Tsimshian first nation treaty tables during the corona virus era
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Vertical Divider
Tsimshian First Nation Treaty Negotiations, include five Tsimshian communities involved in Tripartite (Canada, BC & First Nation) talks, after a year of carrying out business while adapting to a world threatened by a deadly virus transmitting its way around the world, our normal has not changed as dramatically as others seem.
Pre-Covid, negotiators travelled between home bases, each taking turns as host, and carried out a three-day session of talks each month. Through the coronavirus era, tripartite negotiators met weekly and table talks range from morning only to all-day discussions. March was an active month at the treaty tables, and the advanced tables arranged one-on-one meeting with BC's Minister of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation, Murray Rankin. Minister Rankin was updated on the table's status talks for the Tsimshian communities and provided feedback to the concerns brought forward. Issues regarding the pace of negotiation and identifying where some of the hold-ups are occurring. Though no final decisions were made, the minister has a first-hand account of where his negotiation team is with these treaties. The Tsimshian communities, there are a couple of band council elections scheduled for 2021, one of which has already occurred. Incumbent Chief Don Roberts was voted in as Chief Councillor for another term, his eighth term serving his community along with a solid team of councillors, six out of seven of which have been re-elected for the fourth time in a row. Chief Roberts was recognized as the leader of a strong team of officials and personally congratulated by the honourable Premier of BC, John Horgan and Minister Murray Rankin. As we roll into a new fiscal term, the momentum of talks shall continue with the regular schedule of internal preparations at the start of the week, with negotiations throughout the rest of the week. |
Tsimshian First Nation negotiator with BC team and Minister of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation, Murray Rankin. Chaired by BC Treaty Commission.
Pre-pandemic era of negotiations. Tsimshian First Nations, Kitselas and Kitsumkalum, BC and Canada. Chaired by BC Treaty Commission.
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Kitselas Band Council term runs every two years as imposed by the federal ministers office now named Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada and Indigenous Services Canada. Formerly, Indian Affairs and Northern Development Canada, previously Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada and ORIGINALLY Department of Indian Affairs. |
kitselas First nation election results
June 2021, the community of Kitselas of the Tsimshian Nation went to the poles and elected, almost an entirely new leadership team.
CONGRATULATIONS! Kitselas Leaders, Chief Glenn Bennett, incumbent CJ and the rest of the leadership team.
CONGRATULATIONS! Kitselas Leaders, Chief Glenn Bennett, incumbent CJ and the rest of the leadership team.
With deepest sympathy as the nisga'a nation remember Dr Joseph Gosnell
Tsimshian Treaty Society express condolences to the Nisga'a Nation as they mourn the loss of Dr Joseph Gosnell.
The lessons he taught, the love he gave, the way he cared for people... all those live on in you.
world pandemic era and treaty negotiations in northern bc
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Five Tsimshian communities continue activities through the world wide pandemic. The tables remain vigilant in negotiating agreements with the crown governments. In fact, since COVID-19 spread across the territories around the globe, the Tsimshian teams adapted instantly to virtual collaborations.
Today, if you ask a negotiator about their schedule, they will likely tell you they are busier and attending more meetings every week than ever before. Day in and day out, on top of other community business, treaty talks carry on daily. |
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GITGA'AT ELECTIONS 2020 |
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After numerous delays, Gitga’at First Nation has managed to complete its community elections. Fortunately, having a custom election code, where they have the flexibility to adapt to the current conditions, and in coordination with One Feather, community members were able to select their leadership electronically.
Congratulations!
Chief councillor: Arnold Clifton
Council officials: Cameron Hill
Bruce G Reece
Simone Reece
Marven Robinson
All the best to you during your three year term!
Congratulations!
Chief councillor: Arnold Clifton
Council officials: Cameron Hill
Bruce G Reece
Simone Reece
Marven Robinson
All the best to you during your three year term!
Learn more and get all COVID-19 updates at www.fnha.ca/coronavirus
Hoobiyee!
2020
GITLAXT’AAMIKS
* The Simgigat – Nisga’a Chieftains; The Halayt is often referred to as a spiritual leader, medicine man or doctor (https://www.nisgaanation.ca/sites/default/files/Hoobiyee-2012.pdf)
February 21-22, 2020
Hobiyee 2020, 50th ANNIVERSARY of the Gitlaxt’aamiks Ceremonial Dance Group as their community hosts the annual event marking the New Year for Nisga’a.
Two full days of ancient ceremony performances sharing culture through stories, songs and dance. Special events included an exclusive interview by CFNR with Sim’oogit Hleeḵ, Dr Joseph Gosnell. (Video posted above).
Also adding to this, an additional event following the Grand Entry, the 2020 All Native Tournament Masters Champions, the Gitlaxt’aamiks Gitmidiik Masters, were introduced.
*The Halayt-Simgigat studied the Buxw-laks moon, the moon of February, and they made note of the different shapes leading up to the full moon. Over time, 3 they observed that whenever the first crescent moon (thin-shaped) is in the shape of the Hoobix – the bowl of the Nisga’a wooden spoon with the ends pointing upward, this meant abundant resources in the harvesting seasons to follow in K’alii-Aksim Lisims (the Nass Valley). The oolichans would be plentiful, the salmon … berries … and various other resources important to the Nisga’a; all in all, a bountiful year predicted.
Two full days of ancient ceremony performances sharing culture through stories, songs and dance. Special events included an exclusive interview by CFNR with Sim’oogit Hleeḵ, Dr Joseph Gosnell. (Video posted above).
Also adding to this, an additional event following the Grand Entry, the 2020 All Native Tournament Masters Champions, the Gitlaxt’aamiks Gitmidiik Masters, were introduced.
*The Halayt-Simgigat studied the Buxw-laks moon, the moon of February, and they made note of the different shapes leading up to the full moon. Over time, 3 they observed that whenever the first crescent moon (thin-shaped) is in the shape of the Hoobix – the bowl of the Nisga’a wooden spoon with the ends pointing upward, this meant abundant resources in the harvesting seasons to follow in K’alii-Aksim Lisims (the Nass Valley). The oolichans would be plentiful, the salmon … berries … and various other resources important to the Nisga’a; all in all, a bountiful year predicted.
Kitselas, Gitga’at, Metlakatla, Kitasoo/Xaixais Treaty Society
DBA TFN TREATY SOCIETY holds Annual General Assembly
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Wednesday, February 12, 2020, the TFN Treaty Society held its annual general meeting via teleconference, finalizing societal obligations for 2019.
Attendees were: President/Chair Chief Harold Leighton (Metlakatla), CEO/Chief Negotiator Gerald Wesley (TFN Treaty Society), Secretary Chief Councilor Don Roberts (Kitsumkalum), Director Chief Arnold Clifton (Gitga’at), Band Councilor Cyril Nabess, Proxy for Treasurer Chief Judy Gerow (Kitselas), Guests Negotiators Joycelyn Mitchell, Steve Lehrner (Metlakatla) and Admin Assistant Jeanette Spalding (TFN Treaty Society) Regrets include chief councillor Judy Gerow (Kitselas) and Chief councillor Roxanne Robinson (Kitasoo/Xaixais) Nine motions were reviewed and carried covering issues like financial management, annual audit statement reports and other audit preparation requirements; preparations are in gear for the up and coming 2020-2021 fiscal term. Every year at the annual event, directors are appointed. By-law indicates for each community; their elected chief counsellor will serve as director to the society. 2019-2020 Director appointees are: Director-President/Chair Harold Leighton Director-Treasurer Judy Gerow Director-Secretary Don Roberts Director Arnold Clifton Director Roxanne Robinson 2020 Annual General Meeting will be arranged for by the end of this calendar year. |
Tsimshian of the North West Coast Vote 2019
2019 is the year communities in Tsimshian country will be expressing themselves and choosing who will lead through a new term.
It is an election year like no other. Not only will there be a federal election out of Ottawa, but also, the Crown’s seven Tsimshian Indian Act bands in the North West of British Columbia have or will be taking to the polls this year.
Kitsumkalum community members expressed confidence in their leadership in February where the community elected in the same Chief Councillor and all Councillors as before, except one new community official joining the team for the two-year term.
Happening now! Kitselas First Nation’s official list of candidates running for leadership positions is released. Eight candidates are vying for the Chief seat and 27 candidates looking to fill six councillor chairs. Kitselas First Nation community will take to the polls on June 12, 2019.
Following Kitselas’ elections, Kitasoo/Xaixais will vote in their leadership in July, Metlakatla First Nation candidates will be campaigning for an August vote.
Closing out 2019, Gitga’at First Nation community will be voting in November.
The largest Tsimshian community, Lax Kw’alaams, not TFN Treaty Society affiliate, will elect their council team in November and second largest, Gitxaala, also not TFN Treaty Society affiliate, has recently sworn in their new leadership team in April where the leadership will serve their community until 2023.
It is an election year like no other. Not only will there be a federal election out of Ottawa, but also, the Crown’s seven Tsimshian Indian Act bands in the North West of British Columbia have or will be taking to the polls this year.
Kitsumkalum community members expressed confidence in their leadership in February where the community elected in the same Chief Councillor and all Councillors as before, except one new community official joining the team for the two-year term.
Happening now! Kitselas First Nation’s official list of candidates running for leadership positions is released. Eight candidates are vying for the Chief seat and 27 candidates looking to fill six councillor chairs. Kitselas First Nation community will take to the polls on June 12, 2019.
Following Kitselas’ elections, Kitasoo/Xaixais will vote in their leadership in July, Metlakatla First Nation candidates will be campaigning for an August vote.
Closing out 2019, Gitga’at First Nation community will be voting in November.
The largest Tsimshian community, Lax Kw’alaams, not TFN Treaty Society affiliate, will elect their council team in November and second largest, Gitxaala, also not TFN Treaty Society affiliate, has recently sworn in their new leadership team in April where the leadership will serve their community until 2023.
Sm‘algya̱x language book "‘Wii Amap‘a̱sm Hana̱‘a̱x" released December 16, 2019
Sm’aglyax is the language of Tsimshian (Ts‘msyen) First Nation of the Pacific coast. The late matriarch Mildred Roberts, a fluent speaker, passed away in October of 2016 and left a legacy of stories and songs.
Mildred actively practiced and taught art and language; she was a storyteller contributing generously to the oral history of the people of Kitsumkalum, a community in the Ts‘msyen territory of the coast.
A team of friends and family of the late Mildred Roberts: Anne Hill, Music instructor at Kitsumkalum community school, ‘N Aksa Gyila̱k‘yoo; Marian Laval of University of Northern BC; Frances Campbell-Sam, Illustrator; Jeanine Philippe, Photographer; Heather Bohn, Communications Manager, in collaboration with language experts and translators, published and released “‘Wii Amap’a̱sm Hana̱’a̱x Sleeping Beauty Mountain” on December 16, 2019.
A Sm‘algya̱x/English book, A story and song narrated in both Sm’algya̱x and English that provides a glimpse into the worldview of Ts‘msyen people and their relationship with our mother earth.
This book is suitable for all ages and available for purchase at House of Sim-oi-ghets in Kitsumkalum and Misty River books in downtown Terrace.
Mildred actively practiced and taught art and language; she was a storyteller contributing generously to the oral history of the people of Kitsumkalum, a community in the Ts‘msyen territory of the coast.
A team of friends and family of the late Mildred Roberts: Anne Hill, Music instructor at Kitsumkalum community school, ‘N Aksa Gyila̱k‘yoo; Marian Laval of University of Northern BC; Frances Campbell-Sam, Illustrator; Jeanine Philippe, Photographer; Heather Bohn, Communications Manager, in collaboration with language experts and translators, published and released “‘Wii Amap’a̱sm Hana̱’a̱x Sleeping Beauty Mountain” on December 16, 2019.
A Sm‘algya̱x/English book, A story and song narrated in both Sm’algya̱x and English that provides a glimpse into the worldview of Ts‘msyen people and their relationship with our mother earth.
This book is suitable for all ages and available for purchase at House of Sim-oi-ghets in Kitsumkalum and Misty River books in downtown Terrace.
Tsimshian First Nations Treaty Society Update
Though it has been quiet on the TFN Treaty Website, the Communities within Tsimshian Territory have been busy.
Every month, Metlakatla, Kitsumkalum and Kitselas spend three days at the table with the Crown Governments, Canada and British Columbia negotiating toward settling a Final Agreement, updated information can be found through each community treaty office, their web page or social media account.
Metlakatla First Nation set the stage for negotiating their final agreements by signing their Agreement in Principle with the Crown Governments in February 2019, bypassing the formal referendum approach and crown government procedures that could stretch this stage up to 2 years.
Congratulations to Kitsumkalum First Nation; the community expressed confidence in their leadership by electing the same team of leadership at their council elections as the end of February. There was one change, Aaron Horner joins the team after Susan Spalding didn’t run this term. After serving ten terms, she has recently become a proud grandma and will be focusing on nurturing her growing family for the time being.
The new council team at Kitsumkalum is as follows:
Chief Councillor
Don Roberts
Councillors
Cynthia Bohn
Wayne Bolton
Kenny Brown
Aaron Horner
Troy Sam
Kathy Wesley
Lisa Wesley
Kitselas First Nation community will be taking to the poles in June 2019. Kitselas leadership currently includes Chief Councillor Joe Bevan, Councillor and Deputy Chief Judy Gerow, Councillors Cyril Nabess-Bennett, Gerald Seymour, Clarissa Spencer, Roxanne Ridler, and Sue Bevan.
Gitga’at First Nation and Kitasoo/Xai’xais First Nation celebrate the release of IMAX documentary “Great Bear Rain Forest: Land of the Spirit Bear” a feature-length documentary which premiered February 12 and is now open to the public in Vancouver, Victoria, Toronto and Sudbury. The communities teamed up with Heilsuk Nation and Pacific Wild with the creation of this picture of one of the most remote places on the planet.
You can access community web sites through a link under TFN Treaty's "Affiliates" link.
Every month, Metlakatla, Kitsumkalum and Kitselas spend three days at the table with the Crown Governments, Canada and British Columbia negotiating toward settling a Final Agreement, updated information can be found through each community treaty office, their web page or social media account.
Metlakatla First Nation set the stage for negotiating their final agreements by signing their Agreement in Principle with the Crown Governments in February 2019, bypassing the formal referendum approach and crown government procedures that could stretch this stage up to 2 years.
Congratulations to Kitsumkalum First Nation; the community expressed confidence in their leadership by electing the same team of leadership at their council elections as the end of February. There was one change, Aaron Horner joins the team after Susan Spalding didn’t run this term. After serving ten terms, she has recently become a proud grandma and will be focusing on nurturing her growing family for the time being.
The new council team at Kitsumkalum is as follows:
Chief Councillor
Don Roberts
Councillors
Cynthia Bohn
Wayne Bolton
Kenny Brown
Aaron Horner
Troy Sam
Kathy Wesley
Lisa Wesley
Kitselas First Nation community will be taking to the poles in June 2019. Kitselas leadership currently includes Chief Councillor Joe Bevan, Councillor and Deputy Chief Judy Gerow, Councillors Cyril Nabess-Bennett, Gerald Seymour, Clarissa Spencer, Roxanne Ridler, and Sue Bevan.
Gitga’at First Nation and Kitasoo/Xai’xais First Nation celebrate the release of IMAX documentary “Great Bear Rain Forest: Land of the Spirit Bear” a feature-length documentary which premiered February 12 and is now open to the public in Vancouver, Victoria, Toronto and Sudbury. The communities teamed up with Heilsuk Nation and Pacific Wild with the creation of this picture of one of the most remote places on the planet.
You can access community web sites through a link under TFN Treaty's "Affiliates" link.
September 17, 2018
This week, Kitsumkalum (Kalum) Treaty Office hosted a community information session. The theme of the evenings' presentations was "Self Governance".
Full Leadership was in attendance to speak to the latest events happening at the negotiation table with Kalum and the Crown governments. Kalum sits with its sister community, Kitselas First Nation where they are at Stage Five of the treaty process, the Final Agreement Stage.
Chief Negotiator, Gerald Wesley gave a snapshot highlighting efforts made at the table. It seems that progress is on track and is in line with the strategic plan developed in 2017. Given the work happening in the community, Gerald assures the community members in attendance, that Kalum is ready to take the reigns and grow out from under the Department of Indian Affairs.
Headlining the night was Angela Wesley, hailing from post-treaty community Huu-ay-aht First Nation where she helps lead the way with a team of community leaders in determining their future. Angela carries a wealth of information to share from her nation's experience, seven years of self-determination and thriving out from under the Indian Act.
Where do you start in determining self-government?
Chief Don Roberts said in his opening statement, "When elders talk about their territories, that is the beginning of self-governance."
Community engagement sessions are one of the most critical tasks for a treaty office, informing citizens that come out seeking to know more is essential to keep efforts on track at the table.
Full Leadership was in attendance to speak to the latest events happening at the negotiation table with Kalum and the Crown governments. Kalum sits with its sister community, Kitselas First Nation where they are at Stage Five of the treaty process, the Final Agreement Stage.
Chief Negotiator, Gerald Wesley gave a snapshot highlighting efforts made at the table. It seems that progress is on track and is in line with the strategic plan developed in 2017. Given the work happening in the community, Gerald assures the community members in attendance, that Kalum is ready to take the reigns and grow out from under the Department of Indian Affairs.
Headlining the night was Angela Wesley, hailing from post-treaty community Huu-ay-aht First Nation where she helps lead the way with a team of community leaders in determining their future. Angela carries a wealth of information to share from her nation's experience, seven years of self-determination and thriving out from under the Indian Act.
Where do you start in determining self-government?
Chief Don Roberts said in his opening statement, "When elders talk about their territories, that is the beginning of self-governance."
Community engagement sessions are one of the most critical tasks for a treaty office, informing citizens that come out seeking to know more is essential to keep efforts on track at the table.
At the Treaty Table - Kitselas and Kitsumkalum Communities - September 2016
Tripartite negotiations resumed after a short summer break with Canada hosting the September meeting in Vancouver. This round was cut short as Canada’s team was not all present and those present, had little authority over the important agenda item: fish and marine requirements. Missing was their chief negotiator. Also Department of Fisheries and Oceans was not present at the table where chief negotiators reviewed the fisheries working group report. Kitsumkalum and Kitselas re-iterated that if fish is not included in a final agreement, there will be no treaty.
Canada was presented with a copy of a summary report the North Coast Skeena First Nations Stewardship Society "North Coast Marine Plan Overview" which "is to provide recommendations for achieving ecosystem health, social and cultural well being, and economic development through an ecosystem-based approach to planning and management. The plan provides recommendations for developing and maintaining resilient marine ecosystems and sustainable economies for North Coast Communities"
BC Treaty Commission, Tom Happynook chaired the meeting and after all teams agreed to the Record of Decision from June’s talks, new business began.
This round reviewed reports from the working groups for Fisheries, Main-table, Legal, Lands Technical, Water Technical and Forestry.Working groups meet through out the year continually between scheduled negotiations.
Main-table Working Group business included, Environmental Chapter, Kalum and Kitselas reported out on the Fish Survey that has been conducted during the summer. Hydro Electric Water Assessments were discussed; Kitselas and Kitsumkalum will identify related water areas that may be included in the Water Chapter. Harvest Areas for Wildlife, Fisheries and Gathering purposes remains an issue to be addressed at the next meeting. Chapter reviews also include Self-Government and Gathering.
Next round of discussions will be hosted by BC in Victoria, watch for updates in early October.
Canada was presented with a copy of a summary report the North Coast Skeena First Nations Stewardship Society "North Coast Marine Plan Overview" which "is to provide recommendations for achieving ecosystem health, social and cultural well being, and economic development through an ecosystem-based approach to planning and management. The plan provides recommendations for developing and maintaining resilient marine ecosystems and sustainable economies for North Coast Communities"
BC Treaty Commission, Tom Happynook chaired the meeting and after all teams agreed to the Record of Decision from June’s talks, new business began.
This round reviewed reports from the working groups for Fisheries, Main-table, Legal, Lands Technical, Water Technical and Forestry.Working groups meet through out the year continually between scheduled negotiations.
Main-table Working Group business included, Environmental Chapter, Kalum and Kitselas reported out on the Fish Survey that has been conducted during the summer. Hydro Electric Water Assessments were discussed; Kitselas and Kitsumkalum will identify related water areas that may be included in the Water Chapter. Harvest Areas for Wildlife, Fisheries and Gathering purposes remains an issue to be addressed at the next meeting. Chapter reviews also include Self-Government and Gathering.
Next round of discussions will be hosted by BC in Victoria, watch for updates in early October.
Kitselas and Kitsumkalum First Nation Negotiations - June 2016
It was a busy week at the negotiation table in Gitaus during the last week of June. Kitselas First Nation hosted the latest round of tripartite talks for both Kitsumkalum and Kitselas communities. Canada and BC negotiation teams were welcomed in and treated to an informative tour of the traditional Tsimshian territory as well as fresh traditional food. CJ of the Kitselas Treaty office shared many stories of the deep history and culture of the Kitselas Canyon.
At the table, the teams addressed language requirements on important agreement provisions in Lands and Resources, Fisheries, and Culture and Heritage.
BC Treaty commission was able to chair the meetings and were made available along with the rest of the teams for one on one discussion with the community participants that came looking for answers.
It was a fast paced long week of talks leading into the first long weekend of the summer and it ended in good spirits. It seems each round at the table strengthens the nation to nation relationship.
At the table, the teams addressed language requirements on important agreement provisions in Lands and Resources, Fisheries, and Culture and Heritage.
BC Treaty commission was able to chair the meetings and were made available along with the rest of the teams for one on one discussion with the community participants that came looking for answers.
It was a fast paced long week of talks leading into the first long weekend of the summer and it ended in good spirits. It seems each round at the table strengthens the nation to nation relationship.
Congratulations to the Gitga’at First Nation on the success of their recent election which was held on November 25, 2015!
Compliments to Chief Councilor, Arnold Clifton who was re-elected, and to Council members elected to serve their members:
Spencer Greening
E.D. Cameron Hill
G. Bruce Reese
Marven J Robinson
TFN Treaty Society extends congratulations to Gitga’at First Nations community members for exercising their democratic right in selecting their leaders. Choices made are a tribute to the strength and commitment in the governance of the Gitga’at community.
Compliments to Chief Councilor, Arnold Clifton who was re-elected, and to Council members elected to serve their members:
Spencer Greening
E.D. Cameron Hill
G. Bruce Reese
Marven J Robinson
TFN Treaty Society extends congratulations to Gitga’at First Nations community members for exercising their democratic right in selecting their leaders. Choices made are a tribute to the strength and commitment in the governance of the Gitga’at community.
Negotiation StatusAugust 2015
Community members and regional dignitaries witnessed the official signing of the Kitselas and Kitsumkalum Agreements-in-Principle on August 4th 2015 in two separate events. While this important milestone in the BC Treaty process took place more than two years after the respective communities approved their Agreements-in-Principle the day was very much celebratory. This formal signing commits all parties to address outstanding issues from Agreement-in-Principle negotiations and officially moved both Kitselas and Kitsumkalum into Stage Five of the BC Treaty Commission process. An Agreement-in-Principle is not legally binding, but it is the critical framework to a concluded Final Agreement or Treaty. When the communities of Kitselas and Kitsumkalum voted “YES” to the AIP it mandated the negotiators to move forward with Final Agreement negotiations. While the formality of signing has taken longer than anticipated, the Parties have continued negotiation requirements on many different issues over the past two years. Including establishment of a process to address fish and marine matters, which is especially significant as it had been off the table for a number of years. With the signing of the Agreements-in-Principle, Kitselas and Kitsumkalum will be working to conclude a Final Agreement within the next two years. Once a Final Agreement is complete a majority of Kitselas and Kitsumkalum eligible voters will need to approve it with another ratification vote. January 2015 Kitselas and Kitsumkalum eagerly anticipate the signing of the Agreements-in-Principle by Canada and subsequently by British Columbia early in 2015 which will signify the shift into formal Final Agreement negotiations. Canada has confirmed a new mandate to negotiate fish, migratory birds and the financial package in the coming year, which is significant. The Metlakatla negotiation table is moving along very efficiently and the community is making progress on the land option. Metlakatla is at the table with Kitselas and Kitsumkalum to collectively negotiate fish matters – all communities will identify what is of common interest and work towards resolving distinct interests for each community. This is not a “one-size fits all” approach, but rather an opportunity to move along on this issue at a faster pace than would be expected if all three were meeting independently. Paul Paterson has been hired as Chief Negotiator for Gitga’at and has convened the negotiation table in January 2015. More as this develops... Overlap issues are ongoing and will require significant attention in the coming year. The BC Treaty Commission has encouraged First Nations to resolve the current issues independently and the Tsimshian Treaty Society has made formal efforts to reach out to our neighbouring communities to resolve the issues. We look forward to advancements on this item and will report any progress in the new year. |
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