Historic Nisga'a Treaty Ratified; Receives Royal Assent | Press Release

Ottawa, April 13th

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Statement by Nisga'a Chief Joseph Gosnell, following ratification of the Nisga'a Treaty in Ottawa today:

“The Royal Assent of our treaty signifies the end of the colonial era for the Nisga'a people. It is a great and historic day for all Canadians, and this achievement is a beacon of hope for colonized people in our own country and throughout the world,” said a jubilant Chief Joseph Gosnell, on the steps of the Senate chambers in Ottawa, surrounded by Nisga'a leaders and supporters from both the Senate and the House of Commons.

“Today, the Nisga'a people become full-fledged Canadians as we step out from under the Indian Act - forever. Finally, after a struggle of more than 130 years, the government of this country clearly recognizes that the Nisga'a were a self-governing people since well before European contact. We remain self-governing today, and we are proud to say that this inherent right is now clearly recognized and protected in the Constitution of Canada.”

“There are so many people to thank. First of all, the Nisga'a men and women who have preceded those of us you see today, proud independent people who dedicated their lives to a just and honourable settlement of the Land Question. The dreams of our ancestors are made real today.”

Chief Gosnell also referred to Senator Jack Austin, sponsor of the bill in the Senate, other supporters in the Senate, and to the “splendid coalition of more than 80 per cent of the members of the House of Commons, the Liberals, Progressive Conservatives, New Democrats and Bloc Quebecois MPs who walked with the Nisga'a, and voted unanimously to endorse our efforts.”

“Also, we sincerely thank the straight-forward and strong support of Robert Nault, Minister of Indian Affairs. His belief in the treaty, and dedication to upholding the honour of the Crown, will always be remembered by the Nisga’a, as will the staunch support of former Premier Glen Clark and the government of British Columbia.”

Chief Gosnell had special praise for his own people, and their steadfast support for his team of negotiators and leaders. “It was the will of the majority of the Nisga'a Nation that kept us working toward this great moment. Without their intense support, and without the incredible teamwork of the people you see here - and others - we could not have reached this milestone.”

“Now, we will travel back to the Nass River Valley (in northwestern British Columbia) to savour this day with the Nisga'a people,” Chief Gosnell said.

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