The treaty negotiations process provides a framework for the three parties: Canada, BC and First Nations – to work towards the common goal of reconciliation, and building a new relationship, through constitutionally entrenched government-to-government-to-government understandings. Some of the major components integral to modern treaty making in British Columbia are:
First Nations have for thousands of years sustained vibrant and rich cultural identities profoundly linked to BC’s land and waters.
Self-determination is a core principal of self-government, the BC treaty negotiations process and is also reflected the United Nations Declaration of the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.
Land has spiritual, economic and political significance for First Nations peoples. First Nations traditional territory—land occupied and used historically—is integral to their identity.
Treaties will bring certainty to land ownership and jurisdiction, funding and new investment. Through treaties, First Nations will be able to provide services appropriate to the unique culture.
Our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) booklet is the first in a series of four booklets prepared by the Gwa’sala-Nakwaxda’xw Nations’ Treaty Support Team. The booklet will answer questions regarding status, Aboriginal title, taxes, healthcare and self-government and many other questions that have been raised at Treaty meetings.
Our Overview Booklet is the second in a series of four booklets produced by the Gwa’sala-Nakwaxda’xw Nations Treaty Support Team. This booklet provides information on the past, present and future of the Nations. It covers topics including governance, administration, economic development, and the Gwa’sala-Nakwaxda’xw Nations entry into the BC Treaty Process in 1993.
The third booklet in the series of booklets produced by the Treaty Support Team is Gwa’sala-Nakwaxda’xw Nations: Our History. The booklet gives a glimpse into the early times and Gwa’sala and ‘Nakwaxda’xw Villages. It also discusses the challenges of colonization and the growing interest in the future of returning to the Homelands.
The final booklet in this series is the Gwa’sala-’Nakwaxda’xw Nations: Pathway to Self-Governance booklet. The booklet discusses the meaning of self-governance and the different options we have to achieve it so that we can continue to build and reclaim our future based on Nusens Sax – ‘our ways’. The chart at the end of the booklet highlights the strengths and shortfalls of each of the options listed.
A First Nation files with the Treaty Commission a statement of intent (SOI) to negotiate a treaty with Canada and BC.
The Treaty Commission must convene an initial meeting of the three parties within 45 days of accepting a statement of intent.
The framework agreement is, in effect, the “table of contents” of a comprehensive treaty.
This is where substantive treaty negotiations begin. The parties examine in detail the elements outlined in their framework agreement.
The treaty formalizes the new relationship among the parties and embodies the agreements reached in the agreement in principle.
Long-term implementation plans need to be tailored to specific agreements. The plans to implement the treaty are put into effect or phased in as agreed.
Chief
Hereditary Chief
Hereditary Chief
Hereditary Chief
Councillor
Councillor
Councillor
Councillor
Chief Negotiator
Legal and Negotiations Advisor
GIS/Mapping
Research Support
Policy Support
Negotiations Support
Meeting/Event Logistics Support