On December 19, the Haida Nation and the federal government officially signed the Chiixuujin / Chaaw Kaawgaa Big Tide (Low Water) Haida Title Lands Agreement, marking a historic milestone in the recognition of Haida sovereignty over their ancestral lands and resources. This agreement confirms the Haida Nation’s right to govern Haida Gwaii, paving the way for a new era of self-determination, collaboration, and stewardship of the archipelago. It follows a decisive vote by Haida citizens, with 97 per cent approving the deal, meeting the requirements for international agreements outlined in the Haida Nation’s Constitution. This overwhelming support ensures Haida Gwaii is now recognized as Haida land, solidifying the Haida Nation’s inherent governance rights and responsibilities.
Council of the Haida Nation President Gaagwiis/Jason Alsop, who has been instrumental in securing the recognition of Haida title, expressed pride in the accomplishment. “Today marks a historic step forward for the Haida Nation. This agreement is the culmination of decades of hard work, and it will allow us to protect our land, culture, and future for generations to come. Our title to Haida Gwaii is now recognized, and we are ready to take on the responsibility of stewardship with pride,” Alsop said in a statement shared by the CHN. His leadership has been critical in the ongoing efforts to reclaim Haida governance, a task that has taken decades and involved tireless advocacy at both the local and national levels.
The Chiixuujin / Chaaw Kaawgaa Big Tide Haida Title Lands Agreement establishes a co-governance model, ensuring Haida laws, traditions, and cultural knowledge will guide land management, conservation, and resource use across the archipelago. This model of shared governance between the Haida Nation, the Canadian government, and the province of British Columbia ensures Haida priorities will shape the future of Haida Gwaii, balancing the protection of cultural and environmental values with economic opportunities for Haida citizens.
The agreement also provides a comprehensive framework for resource management and land use, empowering the Haida Nation to take full stewardship of their lands, waters, and natural resources. The Haida will now have the authority to manage and protect vast portions of Haida Gwaii, including both land and marine areas. As Alsop pointed out, “This agreement reflects our role as the rightful stewards of Haida Gwaii, and it allows us to protect what is ours in a way that respects our values and traditions.”
The successful approval of the agreement by Haida citizens on November 25 was a decisive moment in the nation’s history. The vote was a resounding affirmation of the Haida Nation’s collective will to secure sovereignty and ensure the future of their lands. The 97 per cent approval rate demonstrated the unity and strength of the Haida people in the face of centuries of dispossession. The vote met all constitutional requirements set forth by the Haida Nation, which mandates such approval for international agreements.
This momentous event would not have been possible without the tireless work of many leaders, including MP Taylor Bachrach, who has been a staunch ally in the Haida Nation’s efforts to secure recognition of their rights. Bachrach, who played a key role in advocating for the restoration of Haida sovereignty, said, “This is a momentous day for the Haida Nation. The government is finally recognizing their sovereignty, and this agreement ensures that the Haida people will have control over their lands for the future.”
The signing of the agreement represents not just a win for the Haida Nation, but also a significant step in Canada’s ongoing reconciliation process. The Haida Nation’s resilience and determination have demonstrated how Indigenous governance can lead to meaningful change.
For further details, the full signed agreement is available on the Council of the Haida Nation’s website.