On June 24, Chief Glenn Bennett of the Kitselas First Nation, along with federal Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations Gary Anandasangaree and BC Minister of Indigenous Relations Murray Rankin, celebrated a significant milestone: the initialling of the Kitselas Treaty.
After over 30 years of negotiations this treaty aims to affirm Kitselas’ self-determination and address historical grievances through governance rights, land ownership, and resource management provisions.
Aligned with United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) and provincial laws, it aims to strengthen the nation-to-nation relationship.
The treaty includes clauses for environmental protection and cultural preservation, highlighting Kitselas’ commitment to sustainable development and heritage. Anticipated benefits include enhanced services and economic opportunities for present and future generations, with a target for ratification by spring 2025.
Chief Bennett and Cyril Bennett-Nabess, an elected councillor, spoke with CFNR.
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