The Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs has thrown its support behind a coalition of First Nations demanding a halt to the provincial government's ratification of two modern treaties, citing unresolved overlapping land claims.
Treaties Introduced for Ratification
Two weeks ago, the B.C. government introduced legislation to ratify treaties with the K'ómoks First Nation, based on central Vancouver Island, and the Kitselas First Nation, located near Terrace and Port Essington in northwestern B.C. These agreements, the result of over three decades of negotiations, would grant the nations ownership of land within treaty areas, self-government rights, and government funding.
First Nations Unite in Opposition
On April 28, leaders from the Wei Wai Kum First Nation, the Nine Allied Tribes, and the Lax Kw'alaams Band gathered in Victoria to demand a 180-day pause on legislative debate. They argue that the treaties infringe on their traditional territories and rights, with minimal consultation or negotiation between the affected nations and the K'ómoks and Kitselas.
Wei Wai Kum Chief Chris Roberts highlighted that 80% of the land designated for the K'ómoks treaty overlaps with territories claimed by the Laich-kwil-tach, a group of four Kwakwaka'wakw nations, including the Wei Wai Kum. Roberts warned of potential legal action and even blockades if the province proceeds. He noted critical infrastructure within the disputed area, such as a B.C. Hydro dam supplying nearly half of Vancouver Island's power, the Island Highway, and an $800 million wind farm project.
Lax Kw'alaams Mayor Gary Reece expressed frustration over stalled negotiations, stating that Kitselas chief negotiator David Try deemed it unnecessary to delay the treaty legislation. Reece criticized the province's approach, saying, 'You can't say this is about partnerships and respect and then push the legislation forward while ignoring the very nations that it impacts.'
Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs vice-president Linda Innes, representing Grand Chief Stewart Phillip, reaffirmed solidarity with the protesting nations. Phillip is currently attending to his wife, Joan Phillip, NDP MLA for Vancouver-Strathcona, at a Vancouver hospital.
