(Xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish) and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh)/Vancouver, B.C.) –The BC Assembly of First Nations (BCAFN) held their 21st Annual Special Chiefs Assembly (SCA) virtually on February 26 and 27, 2025. The event began with opening prayers led by BCAFN Knowledge Keepers Dr. Gwendolyn Point and Sempulyan Stewart Gonzales, setting a spiritual tone for the gathering.
Regional Chief Terry Teegee welcomed attendees, and the BCAFN Board of Directors, representatives on youth, 2SLGBTQQIA+ issues, and women's perspectives, provided significant updates. Key resolutions were proposed, such as establishing councils for 2SLGBTQQIA+ individuals and women and advancing shared governance with the Canada Water Agency.
“First Nations communities are facing the ongoing impacts of colonial policies, including systemic racism and the ongoing legacy of residential schools. The climate crisis is also disproportionately causing significant impacts, as our traditional territories are threatened by resource extraction, pollution, and extreme weather events. In addressing these issues, BCAFN is working to strengthen partnerships built on mutual respect and understanding, ensuring that First Nations voices are at the forefront of decision-making processes. We seek not just inclusion, but true partnerships in addressing the challenges we face today, as we work towards a future that honours our ancestors and protects our future generations,” stated Regional Chief Terry Teegee.
Discussions throughout the meeting focused on pressing issues, including the implications of US tariff threats and calls for the recognition of First Nations rights, alongside economic development initiatives. Notable addresses included those from Minister Christine Boyle on Indigenous relations and Premier David Eby on provincial commitments.
The second day commenced with a keynote address from National Chief Cindy Woodhouse. Critical topics included First Nations child and family services reform, justice issues, and the launch of initiatives focused on mineral tenure reform. Resolutions calling for a national inquiry into systemic racism in policing and First Nations peoples deaths and use of body-worn cameras by police were also discussed.
During the two-day event, 20 on-time resolutions and two late resolutions were passed, which will provide future business and direction for the BCAFN team.
News and updates of recent BCAFN activities can be viewed in the BCAFN Annual Winter/Spring 2025 Newsletter BCAFN website