Ottawa, Ontario - Haida Nation, Province of British Columbia, and Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada
Today, with the support of the Haida Nation and the Government of British Columbia, the Honourable Gary Anandasangaree, Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations, introduced legislation to affirm the Government of Canada's recognition of the Haida Nation as the holder of the inherent rights of governance and self-determination. Once passed, the legislation will formally recognize the Council of the Haida Nation as the government of the Haida Nation.
This legislation advances the principles and approach to reconciliation with the Haida Nation laid out in the GayGahlda • Kwah.hlahl.dáyaa "Changing Tide" Framework for Reconciliation. Further, it implements commitments in the Nang K'uula • Nang K̲'úulaas Recognition Agreement, entered into by the Haida Nation, the Government of Canada and British Columbia in July 2023.
The Council of the Haida Nation was formed as a national government in 1974. The Constitution of the Haida Nation was formally adopted in 2003. It mandates the Council to conduct the external affairs of the Haida Nation and to steward the lands and waters of Haida Gwaii on behalf of the Haida Nation. This ensures that the Haida relationship with Haida Gwaii continues in perpetuity.
Step-by-step, the Haida Nation, the Government of Canada and British Columbia are creating a path for a better future. We will continue to work together to respect, uphold, and affirm the rights of the Haida people.
