As the Provincial Election approaches, our candidates need to understand that First Nations rights are a priority for voters. The Declaration Act is a landmark achievement and a crucial framework for ensuring fairness, economic stability, and collaboration across British Columbia.
By protecting this Act, we can continue to build a better and fairer future for all. Now is the time to uphold First Nations rights and build lasting partnerships. Contact your provincial candidates today and urge them to take the pledge!
Click on the button below to download the First Nations Leadership Council Election Package, including responses from all parties to the survey questions on First Nations Issues.
FNLC Provincial Election Package
Do you need information about how to register to vote, where to vote, when to vote, etc? Go to Elections BC
What is the Declaration Act?
The Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (DRIPA), known as the Declaration Act, was passed in 2019. It is a historic achievement, making BC the first jurisdiction in Canada to commit to aligning its laws with the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP). Built on generations of advocacy, the Act marks a major step forward in achieving reconciliation, inclusion, fairness, and shared prosperity, creating a brighter future for all British Columbians.
Why the Declaration Act Matters
The Declaration Act is a key tool for advancing reconciliation and building respectful partnerships between First Nations and the BC government. The Act promotes collaboration and equality by ensuring First Nations are included in decision-making on critical issues like land use, resource development, economic growth, and climate preparedness. It also prevents costly legal battles, paving the way for more sustainable development and economic stability that benefits all British Columbians. Through the Declaration Act, we can create a future where First Nations and non-Indigenous communities work–and succeed–together.
Why This Matters Now
With the BC Provincial Election fast approaching, supporting the Declaration Act is more important than ever. Some candidates have expressed opposition to continuing its implementation, which could undermine the progress made toward reconciliation and respectful partnerships with First Nations. By taking action now and making our voices heard, we can ensure that the Declaration Act remains a priority for our elected officials. This election is a pivotal moment to protect the gains we've made and to secure a future where First Nations rights are upheld and respected.
How You Can Help?
Make an impact today by contacting your local candidates and urging them to pledge to protect the Declaration Act and its continued implementation in BC. Use our easy email tool to send a pre-written message directly to MLA candidates in your area. Together, we can ensure First Nations rights and reconciliation remain a priority across BC.
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BC Gov Declaration Act webpage:
Video Credits:
“British Columbia cabinet minister Frank Calder talks to media in Ottawa Feb.8, 1973 after meeting with Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau and Indian Affairs Minister Jean Chretien. Thirty years after his landmark court decision, Nisga’a leader Calder will celebrate the case that forever changed the way governments deal with First Nations at a three-day conference at the University of Victoria”
(CP Photo) Chuck Mitchell
The Canadian Press: Images
“Brian Mulroney signs the Nunavut Land Claim Agreement in 1993, with Paul Quassa, second from left, who later became premier, looking on.”
“Treaty 11 was not working. 1968, Tlicho assembled in Behchoko, and together refused to accept Treaty Payments. The boycott signaled a growing movement. The Aboriginal people of the North were beginning to question the fairness of their Treaties, and assert their Aboriginal Rights and Title.”
“A procession of Gitxsan and Wet'suwet'en chiefs outside Smithers town hall in response to Justice McEachern's decision in their land title case.”
“First Nations leadership council representatives hold up printed copies of the Indigenous rights bill tabled on Thursday morning in Victoria.”
B.C. tables historic Indigenous rights bill in move to implement UN declaration
Chantelle Bellrichard/CBC
“National First Nations protest movement that's building social media support across the country. Protesters say Bill C-45 violates First Nations' treaty rights.”
Attawapiskat chief's hunger strike part of wider movement
Video from CBC News
“January 25, 1993 Delgamuukw Appeal Decision, at Vancouver Supreme Court, Press Release Conference, regarding the Gitksan and Wet'suwet'en Court Action concerning Aboriginal Title and Resource Rights.”
After 26 Years: From Delgamuukw Appeal, June 25, 1993 to Unist'ot'en Rally, January 8, 2019
Will Koop, the Coordinator of the B.C. Tap Water Alliance (www.bctwa.org)
“The new law [at the time] is an important step towards true and lasting reconciliation. It recognizes Indigenous rights and will create stronger communities, good jobs and prosperity for everyone in BC.”
Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act
Video from the Government of BC
Archival footage compilation of Delgamuukw
January 6, 2022 - Delgamuukw Death
Video from CFTK-TV: Reporter Joshua Azizi
“On July 15, 2022, McLeod Lake Indian Band (MLIB) broke ground on our brand new Health and Community Wellness Centre. This multi-use facility will house medical clinics and health services, a gymnasium for gatherings and activities, a community kitchen, and more.”
McLeod Lake Wellness Centre Groundbreaking Ceremony
Video by Pop Media, posted by McLeod Lake Indian Band
“Industrial forestry practices have had far-reaching and devastating impacts on the territory and people of Saik'uz First Nation. Today, we show the world those impacts, their effects, the good relationships we have with industry, and our hopes for the future.”
Video by Pop Media, posted by Saik'uz First Nation
Fishin' and Forests
Footage from Saik'uz First Nation and Pop Media
Dawson Creek
Footage from 6ix Sigma Productions
“Negotiations for the Haida Title Lands Agreement started two decades ago. The deal will return the 200 islands of Haida Gwaii to the nation located off the coast of northern B.C.”
After decades of negotiations, Haida Nation, B.C., sign land agreement
Video from APTN News
BCAFN Website
Sugarbowl-Grizzly Den Park
Footage from 6ix Sigma Productions
