Status of First Nations treaties in British Columbia

The lack of treaties between the First Nations of British Columbia (BC) and the Canadian Crown is a long-standing problem that became a major issue in the 1990s.

[3] British Columbian Treaty 8 signatories are located in the Peace River Country or the far north-east of BC.

[6] In 1991, a Report by the BC Claims Task Force was released recommending a treaty commission be set up.

Because of the boycott and general public apathy only about a third of eligible voters took part in the referendum,[14] which passed with 80% of those who responded voting "Yes" to continuing the Treaty Process.

[16] The judge ruled that the Xeni Gwet'in First Nation could demonstrate Aboriginal title to half of the Nemaiah Valley, and that the province had no power over these lands.

Indian Chiefs, member governments of which reject the treaty process and remain outside it, has called the court victory a "nail in the coffin" of the B.C.

A map of Vancouver Island and the Lower mainland, with a dark patch showing Tsawwassen land
Traditional land of the Tsawwassen First Nation . In their 2009 treaty they will have title to 724 hectares (7.24 km 2 ) [ 7 ]
Old black and white photo of an old man in a suit
From 1850-1854 Sir James Douglas , governor of the Colony of Vancouver Island , signed a number of treaties called the Douglas Treaties with the First Nations of Vancouver Island
A dark stone mask, free standing
Stone mask of Nisga'a people (Louvre Museum), 18th-early 19th century. The Nisga'a Treaty went into effect on May 11, 2000. [ 11 ]