INDIGENOUS BAR ASSOCIATION CELEBRATES THE RECOGNITION OF THE HAIDA NATION’S ABORIGINAL TITLE UNDER THE GAAYHLLXID/ GÍHLAGALGANG “RISING TIDE” AGREEMENT

The Indigenous Bar Association in Canada (the “IBA”) extends its heartfelt congratulations to the Haida Nation on the historic recognition of Aboriginal title by the Province of British Columbia. After more than two decades of negotiation, the Gaayhllxid / Gíhlagalgang “Rising Tide” Agreement between the B.C. government and the Council of the Haida Nation marks a significant milestone in recognizing the Nation’s inherent rights to its ancestral lands.

This momentous achievement not only validates the enduring resilience and determination of the Haida Nation, but also sets a powerful precedent for Indigenous nations across Canada seeking recognition of claims to their ancestral lands, resources and sovereignty.

IBA President, Drew Lafond, commented, “[r]ecognition of the Haida Nation’s Aboriginal title is a monumental step towards reconciliation and justice for Indigenous peoples everywhere. This historic agreement demonstrates the importance of upholding Indigenous rights and the necessity of meaningful engagement between Indigenous nations and governing bodies. We commend the Haida Nation for its unwavering dedication to their land and resources.”

The IBA is the national association of Indigenous (First Nation, Métis, and Inuit) lawyers (practising and non-practising), legal academics and scholars, articling clerks and law students, including graduate and post-graduate law students and paralegals in Canada. The IBA’s mandate includes, inter alia, advocating for the recognition of Indigenous laws, legal traditions, protocols and processes; promoting the reform of policies and laws affecting Indigenous peoples in Canada; and fostering public awareness within the legal community in respect of legal and social issues of concern to Indigenous peoples in Canada.