Recognition of Haida aboriginal title under B.C. law will take effect on Friday, July 5.
The provincial law that recognizes Haida Nation title, the Haida Nation Recognition Amendment Act, passed by a 53-25 vote in the B.C. legislature in April and received royal assent in May.
The act confirms the Gaayhllxid / Gíihlagalgang (“Rising Tide”) Haida Title Lands Agreement.
Over the next two years, the provincial government will transition management of former Crown lands, protected areas, and natural resources to the Haida Nation, beginning with protected areas and forestry.
The Haida Title Lands agreement will not affect private property, nor the jurisdictions of Haida Gwaii municipalities or North Coast Regional District Areas D and E. Provincial laws will continue to apply, and public services, including highways and ferry travel, will remain unchanged.
Anyone on Haida Gwaii with questions or concerns for the provincial government about the change can meet with Courtney Kirk, the Haida Gwaii director of consultation and engagement for the B.C. Ministry of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation.
Kirk can be reached directly at 250-213-5036, by email at [email protected], and has an office at the Ministry of Forests building in Daajing Giids.
Anyone on Haida Gwaii with questions or concerns for the Council of the Haida Nation about the change can phone the CHN office at 250-559-4468 or email [email protected].