Actions and Commitments:
Exploring Stakeholder: "Government of British Columbia"
Updates on this page: 193
November 18, 2024
First Nations pitch Indigenous-led LNG to the world at COP29
People walk through the COP29 U.N. Climate Summit, Wednesday, Nov. 13, 2024, in Baku, Azerbaijan. Photo: Rafiq Maqbool/AP Photos. APTN News: By Local Journalism Initiative – Leaders of Coastal First Nations are on the ground in Azerbaijan to line up Asian buyers for their Indigenous-led gas exports from LNG facilities under development in British Columbia. It’s...
October 29, 2024
Special interlocutor releases final residential school graves report
Kimberly Murray issues 42 ‘obligations’, seeks 20-year probe Warning: This report refers to residential schools and may be disturbing for some readers. Help is available by calling the Residential School Survivor Support line at 1-866-925-4419 APTN News: After two years of investigation, Canada’s special interlocutor on residential school gravesites says the work is only beginning....
October 29, 2024
Special interlocutor releases final residential school graves report
Kimberly Murray issues 42 ‘obligations’, seeks 20-year probe Warning: This report refers to residential schools and may be disturbing for some readers. Help is available by calling the Residential School Survivor Support line at 1-866-925-4419 APTN News: After two years of investigation, Canada’s special interlocutor on residential school gravesites says the work is only beginning....
October 17, 2024
The BC First Nations Justice Council Announces the Locations of 6 New Indigenous Justice Centres in BC
NationTalk: Okanagan syilx Homelands, Westbank BC: The BC First Nations Justice Council (BCFNJC) is excited to announce that it has been working with First Nations to open new Indigenous Justice Centres (IJCs), by December 2024, in the following locations: Burns Lake, Hazelton, Williams Lake, Kamloops, Cranbrook, and Port Hardy Strategy 4 of the BC First...
October 15, 2024
Tŝilhqot’in and Museum of Vancouver Work Together in Repatriation
NationTalk: For Immediate Release: October 15, 2024 — The Tŝilhqot’in National Government (TNG), in partnership with the Museum of Vancouver (MOV), have completed the repatriation of over 60 Tŝilhqot’in ancestral belongings back to the Tŝilhqot’in territory. In February 2024, a delegation of elders, youth, children, Women’s Council members and former Tŝilhqot’in leaders travelled to Vancouver...
September 18, 2024
New accord on child well-being signed by First Nations Leadership Council, Province
New accord on child well-being signed by First Nations Leadership Council, Province NationTalk: Ministry of Children and Family Development, Union of British Columbia Indian Chiefs, British Columbia Assembly of First Nations, First Nations Summit – The First Nations Leadership Council (FNLC) and the Province have signed a child well-being accord that recommits how the parties...
September 12, 2024
Advancing Métis Health – Progress and Future Initiatives in the Métis Nation British Columbia and Interior Health Wellness Plans
NationTalk: We are excited to announce the launch of the Métis Nation British Columbia (MNBC) – Interior Health (IH) Métis Health and Wellness Plans, an initiative dedicated to enhancing health and wellness outcomes for Métis people through collaboration and cultural integration. A year ago, at the 2023 Annual General Meeting in Kamloops, Métis Nation British...
August 23, 2024
Second urgent and primary care centre coming to Vernon
NationTalk: VERNON – People living in Vernon and surrounding communities will benefit from increased access to team-based care as planning progresses on a second urgent and primary care centre (UPCC). “We’re building up better access to doctors, nurses and other health-care professionals in Vernon and across the province, because people deserve care that works for...
August 16, 2024
Open-Access, No-cost Anti-Colonial Learning Resource Offers Art to Transform Healthcare Systems Across Canada
NationTalk: Lheidli T’enneh Territory, Prince George, BC – The Hearts-based Education and Anti-colonial Learning in Healthcare (H.E.A.L. Healthcare) Project unlocks the potential of arts and humanities to disrupt longstanding and well-established health disparities. Starting from the premise that healthcare is both an art and a science, H.E.A.L. Healthcare uses poetry, storytelling, visual arts, and other...
August 8, 2024
New child care centres coming for families throughout B.C.
NationTalk: COLWOOD – More families throughout B.C. will have access to affordable and high-quality child care as the Province invests in almost 600 new licensed child care spaces. “Thanks to our government’s ChildCareBC plan, hundreds more families will be able to access the child care they need, close to home,” said Mitzi Dean, B.C.’s Minister...
June 3, 2024
First Nation in B.C. plans dig for remains at ex-school, signs deal with RCMP, province
APTN News: The British Columbia government says the Williams Lake First Nation is planning to excavate the site of a former residential school to recover possible human remains and has signed an agreement with the province and RCMP to help guide the process. The Ministry of Indigenous Relations says the memorandum of understanding is the...
June 3, 2024
Assembly of First Nations (AFN) Marks the Fifth Anniversary of National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG) with Progress Report on the Implementation of the Calls for Justice
NationTalk: – Unceded Algonquin Territory, Ottawa, Ontario) – Today, on the fifth anniversary of the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG) Final Report, the Assembly of First Nations (AFN) released a new progress report evaluating the advances made in implementing the National Inquiry’s 231 Calls for Justice. “Preventing violence against...
May 27, 2024
Disruption for Reconciliation in Action: AI Adoption as a Pathway to Inclusion
A feature panel at this year’s Indigenous Partnerships Success Showcase, June 5th and 6th in Vancouver, will discuss how reconciliation and emerging technologies can work in tandem NationTalk: VANCOUVER, British Columbia — The Indigenous Partnerships Success Showcase (IPSS), is excited to announce a groundbreaking panel discussion titled “Indigenous Data Sovereignty and Digital Equity: Ongoing Lessons...
May 23, 2024
Young people in East Kootenays benefit from more mental-health, addiction care
NationTalk: CRANBROOK – More young people struggling with mental-health and addictions challenges will benefit from a first-of-its-kind Foundry centre in Cranbrook. “Children and youth are facing a lot of challenges, and we are ensuring that supports are available for them to be healthy, both physically and mentally,” said Jennifer Whiteside, Minister of Mental Health and...
May 15, 2024
Nadleh Whut’en to search former Lejac Residential School grounds
Survivors, intergenerational survivors working with other First Nations to determine how to manage site WARNING: This story contains distressing details. CBC Indigenous: Another residential school in British Columbia is to be searched for potential unmarked graves. Nadleh Whut’en, a First Nation based in northern B.C., says it is planning to search the Lejac Residential School using both ground-penetrating...
May 9, 2024
First Nation takes over operation of Gold Rush-era historic site
As of May, Hat Creek Ranch is open to the public under the management of St’uxwtéws CBC Indigenous: St’uxwtéws (Bonaparte First Nation) Chief Frank Antoine spent good parts of his childhood at Hat Creek Ranch. “I got to start working here at five years of age,” he said of the tourist site, which originally operated...
May 6, 2024
Ensuring incoming cohorts of medical students better represent the diversity of Indigenous communities in Canada
Nicholas Brisebois and Nicole Cardinal NationTalk: May 6, 2024 CMAJ April 29, 2024 196 (16) E563-E565; DOI: https://doi.org/10.1503/cmaj.231272 KEY POINTS It has become increasingly evident that First Nations people living on reserves and Indigenous people from rural and Northern communities have a substantially lower chance of getting into medical school in Canada than their urban counterparts. This often unappreciated disparity likely contributes...
May 3, 2024
Funding for community projects supports Indigenous women
NationTalk: VICTORIA – The Minister’s Advisory Council on Indigenous Women (MACIW) is calling for applicants to the Giving Voice program’s 2024 cycle with $1 million available to help address the issue of violence against Indigenous women and girls. “Giving Voice provides opportunities for healing and helps ensure Indigenous women and girls are respected and safe...
May 3, 2024
New Indigenous Justice Centre in Nanaimo offers culturally responsive services
NationTalk: Nanaimo News Now – NANAIMO — A long vacant heritage building in Nanaimo’s downtown transitioned to what looks nothing like a traditional law office. It was done by design. Occupying the Great National Land Building at 17 Church St. is one of five new regional Indigenous Justice Centres (IJC) operated by the BC First...
May 2, 2024
New supports for allied health, clinical support workers will boost workforce
NationTalk: VANCOUVER – May 1, 2024: People accessing health care will benefit from a stronger workforce as the Province further invests in recruitment, retention and training initiatives for allied health and clinical support workers. “Supporting the allied health-care workforce is critical to strengthening our public health-care system,” said Adrian Dix, Minister of Health. “By investing in...
April 18, 2024
Province signs historic child and family services agreement with B.C. First Nation
Province supports Sts’ailes asserting their own family services laws First Peoples Law Report: Vernon Morning Star – During a ceremony on Thursday (April 18), minister of children and family services Grace Lore signed a coordinating agreement with the Sts’ailes First Nation, further reinforcing the province’s support of the nation’s jurisdiction over their own child and...
April 13, 2024
What comes next in the search for missing residential school children?
The completed ground-penetrating radar surveys in B.C. are the first steps in a complex process CBC Indigenous: The ʕaaḥuusʔath (Ahousaht) First Nation released findings this week from the first phase of its search for missing children who attended two residential schools in its territory in B.C. They are one of several First Nations and Indigenous...
April 9, 2024
New legislation recognizes work of First Nations post-secondary institutes
NationTalk: VICTORIA – The work of First Nations to provide post-secondary education to their communities will be supported by ongoing funding provided under new legislation, reflecting the integral role of First Nations-mandated post-secondary institutes as a key pillar of B.C.’s post-secondary education system. “This legislation and the funding it commits will support the critical work...
March 27, 2024
A Year of Rapid Growth and Improvement: Reviewing the Progress of BC’s Indigenous-led Gladue Services
NationTalk: Since the BC First Nations Justice Council assumed responsibility for Gladue Services in 2021, tremendous strides have been made to improve the quality, awareness, and accessibility of Gladue Reports for Indigenous people. Okanagan Syilx Territory, Westbank BC, Mar 27, 2024 – Three years ago, a monumental shift in the Indigenous justice landscape occurred when...
March 14, 2024
Nisga’a Nation prepares to purchase natural gas pipeline project
Ready-to-construct pipeline project would supply gas to proposed floating export terminal Amanda Stephenson · The Canadian Press · Posted: Mar 14, 2024 7:20 PM EDT | Last Updated: March 14 CBC Indigenous: The Canadian Press -The Nisga’a Nation in northwestern British Columbia is partnering with a Texas-based firm to buy a ready-to-construct pipeline project that would supply natural gas to a...
March 11, 2024
Indigenous employment centre receives ‘life-changing’ cash from feds
APTN News: An organization in Vancouver says it will be able to expand its programming for First Nations, Inuit and Métis people in British Columbia after a $21 million boost from the federal government. “[There are] approximately 70,000 urban Indigenous people in the Vancouver area, we do a lot of trades training,” said Lynn White,...
March 8, 2024
New mental-health, addictions care expands for young people in Vancouver
NationTalk: VANCOUVER – Young people experiencing homelessness in Vancouver and struggling with mental-health and addictions challenges will get better access to care and supports to help them find a pathway to recovery and a better life. As part of one of the largest expansions in youth mental-health and addictions supports, 28 new youth community care...
February 23, 2024
SD73, Aboriginal Education Council sign agreement to support Indigenous students
NationTalk: Castanet.net – The Kamloops-Thompson school district’s board of education and the Aboriginal Education Council have inked a fifth aboriginal education enhancement agreement, which they say will serve as a five-year roadmap to support aboriginal learners. Diane Jules, chair of the Aboriginal Education Council and SD73 trustee, said the district was one of the first...
February 2, 2024
Proposed Land Act Amendments are Next Step in Implementation of the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act
NationTalk: (xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish) and s əlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh)/Vancouver, B.C.) The First Nations Leadership Council (FNLC) is concerned about recent reactions to the Province of B.C.’s proposed Land Act amendments that are inaccurate and unhelpful, and implicitly rely on outdated, mistaken, and regressive views relating to the rights of First Nations. In 2019, the provincial...
January 24, 2024
Tahltan Nation Development Corporation and Finning Canada Launch TNDC Mobile Training Centre – Building Capacity for Generations to Come
The 44 foot training trailer will be based at the Red Chris Mine in Tahltan Territory and Train up to 120 staff annually. NationTalk: Vancouver, BC – Today, at AME Roundup, the Tahltan Nation Development Corporation (TNDC) and Finning Canada proudly announce the launch of the TNDC Mobile Training Centre. This innovative training facility, established in collaboration...
January 18, 2024
New Supply Chain Report Shows Mining Supports Businesses and Communities throughout British Columbia
NationTalk: Prince George, BC – British Columbia’s mining and smelting sector contributed $3.7 billion to 200 local and First Nations communities by purchasing goods and services from nearly 4,000 BC-based businesses in 2022, according to a new report released today by the Mining Association of British Columbia (MABC) and the Mining Suppliers Association of BC (MSABC). “Mining...
January 11, 2024
Justice centre expansion will create safer communities, change lives
NationTalk: VANCOUVER – More Indigenous people will have access to culturally safe, Indigenous-led legal supports and services with five new Indigenous Justice Centres (IJCs) now operating in Vancouver, Victoria, Nanaimo, Surrey and Kelowna. “Making our communities safer means addressing the core issues that bring people into conflict with the law and their neighbours – a...
December 19, 2023
Royal BC Museum receives declaration to repatriate sacred treasures to BC First Nations
Representatives of Gwa’sala-‘Nakwaxda’xw Nations presented a repatriation declaration to reclaim their ancestors Chief Pangwidi (Walter George) surveys masks from his family. Photo: Courtesy of Murray Browne NationTalk: Capital Daily – Hereditary chiefs and other representatives from Gwa’sala-‘Nakwaxda’xw Nation gathered in the totem hall of the Royal BC Museum on Dec. 6 to make a declaration...
November 22, 2023
Significance of saving endangered language isn’t lost on Kaska’s last speakers
APTN News: Emeral Pope’s life mission is to live her language. Pope is one of five students enrolled in a new full-time Kaska language program, Gūzā́gī ts’į̄́ʼ Netsédzedī́yaʼ, We are Waking up to Our Language. Its goal is ambitious: teach young learners the language so they can eventually pass it down themselves. “There’s so much need in...
November 21, 2023
People in Rutland will have increased health-care access
NationTalk: KELOWNA – People in Rutland will see increased access to team-based health care with a new urgent and primary care centre (UPCC) and a community health centre (CHC). “People living in Rutland and surrounding communities will directly benefit from increased access to health-care services delivered through a new urgent and primary care centre and...
November 16, 2023
Canada and Sc’ianew First Nation to launch the construction of a Community Cultural Centre at Spirit Bay
November 16, 2023 – Spirit Bay, British Columbia NationTalk: Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada – Spirit Bay, British Columbia – Today, Chief Russ Chipps, council members Sheeba Sawyer and Traci-Lynn Pateman of the Sc’ianew First Nation, and the Honourable Gary Anandasangaree, Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations, announced $5,439,245 in funding provided through the Cultural Spaces...
November 7, 2023
Penticton Indian Band celebrates the grand opening of Snxastwilxtn Recovery House
By News Room7 November 20232 Mins Read NationTalk: Daily Guardian – The Penticton Indian Band community came together Monday to celebrate the grand opening of a groundbreaking for the Snxastwilxtn Recovery House. The program is dedicated to addressing substance abuse and alcoholism among Indigenous individuals. “I’ve struggled with addictions and alcoholism for 20-plus years,” said Lyle...
November 1, 2023
‘Beat them at their own game’: Indigenous Justice Centres aim to dismantle colonial law
Jaime McKinley, office administrator of the Chilliwack Indigenous Justice Centre. Photo by BC First Nations Justice Council Listen to article Canada’s National Observer: It wasn’t until Amanda Carling, a Métis from Red River, sat down in her law class at the University of Toronto that she realized the racist underpinnings of the profession she’d entered. “Not...
October 10, 2023
15 New homes for women, children and young adults coming to Hazelton
NationTalk: The Government of Canada and the Government of British Columbia are providing $9.6 million to build 9 new homes and six beds in in Sik-e-Dakh Village for Indigenous women and children leaving violence, children in care, and young adults transitioning out of care. The GCFSS Longhouse is a 15-unit, wood-frame longhouse that is owned...
October 9, 2023
Province acts to address Indigenous racism in health care
NationTalk: VICTORIA – (Oct. 6) – A Ministry of Health progress report marks a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to dismantle Indigenous-specific racism within B.C.’s health-care system. This 24-month update highlights the implementation progress on the 24 recommendations made in the In Plain Sight: Addressing Indigenous-specific Racism and Discrimination in BC Health Care report,...
October 5, 2023
Simpcw expands prevention services to urban families through new agreement
NationTalk: VICTORIA – Simpcw First Nation is partnering with the Province on a two-year project focused on keeping families together through connections to their culture, language, families and traditional decision-making for members who live away from home. “Today is a very proud day for Simpcw as we are now able to fulfil a commitment our...
October 5, 2023
Simpcw expands prevention services to urban families through new agreement
NationTalk:VICTORIA – Simpcw First Nation is partnering with the Province on a two-year project focused on keeping families together through connections to their culture, language, families and traditional decision-making for members who live away from home. “Today is a very proud day for Simpcw as we are now able to fulfil a commitment our council...
September 20, 2023
The FNHA Launches Funding Initiative to Support the Urban and Away-from-Home Population
NationTalk: One-time funding requests can be made up to $25,000 The First Nations Health Authority (FNHA) is excited to introduce the Urban and Away-from-Home (UAH) Funding Initiative. Grants of up to $25,000 are available to support the Urban and Away-from-Home population in areas of primary care, mental health and wellness, the toxic drug response and/or...
September 14, 2023
Provincial Tuition Waiver Program expanded to former youth in care of all ages
NationTalk: VICTORIA – People looking to enrol in post-secondary education, who are former youth in care, will benefit from an expansion of the Provincial Tuition Waiver Program, which has launched for the fall semester. “This program has made a massive and positive impact on so many peoples’ lives to shape their future without barriers, financial burden...
September 13, 2023
Indigenous course requirement now in place for B.C. high school students
School districts say they are still working with First Nations to develop regionally specific courses First Peoples law Report: CBC News: Grade 12 students in British Columbia this school year are the first required to take an Indigenous-focused course in order to graduate. The Indigenous-focused grad requirement, announced last year, was developed by the Ministry of Education...
September 5, 2023
B.C. helps Williams Lake First Nation buy land at former residential school site
A cemetery and an abandoned building are seen on the former grounds of St. Joseph’s Mission Residential School, in Williams Lake, B.C., on Wednesday, March 30, 2022. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Darryl Dyck Listen to article Canada’s National Observer: WILLIAMS LAKE, B.C. — A former British Columbia residential school site being investigated as a possible location of unmarked...
August 31, 2023
BCUC Launches Indigenous Intervener Capacity Fund Pilot
NationTalk: VANCOUVER, British Columbia — The British Columbia Utilities Commission (BCUC) has launched a pilot funding program to reduce financial barriers for Indigenous governments and organizations who want to participate as interveners in BCUC proceedings. This important initiative is one way the BCUC aims to advance reconciliation with Indigenous peoples through our work and processes....
August 10, 2023
Midwives Association of British Columbia ratifies tentative three-year agreement
NationTalk: VICTORIA – Midwives will be better supported as a new three-year agreement has been ratified between the Province and the Midwives Association of British Columbia (MABC) that will increase wages, benefits and provide more supports for Indigenous midwifery. The agreement is effective retroactively from April 2022 until March 2025.“ Midwives play an essential role...
August 3, 2023
Province invests in building healthier communities
NationTalk: VICTORIA – People throughout B.C. will benefit from healthier and more connected communities as the provincial government provides grants through the PlanH program to local governments and Indigenous communities. Funded by the Ministry of Health and administered by BC Healthy Communities, the PlanH program supports local and Indigenous governments to create healthier communities through...
July 28, 2023
TELUS doubles impact with $2 million commitment to its Indigenous Communities Fund
NationTalk: Vancouver, Xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Territories – Today, TELUS announced a doubling of its commitment to the TELUS Indigenous Communities Fund, raising the investment from $1 million to $2 million over the next five years. In alignment with TELUS’ Reconciliation Commitment, the Indigenous Community Fund enables social outcomes and creates space for grant...
July 10, 2023
New report details B.C.’s progress in implementing objectives of UN Indigenous rights declaration
NationTalk: Law360 Canada – British Columbia has released a report which provides detailed information about progress achieved on implementing the objectives of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP), which follows up on a detailed action plan which was revealed last year. In 2019, the province unanimously passed the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous...
July 7, 2023
Ben & Jerry’s Land Back tweet on Canada Day gets praise from First Nations people
Others called for boycott of ice cream company after tweet says Canada is on stolen land CBC News: Ice cream company Ben & Jerry’s is being praised by many First Nations people in Canada for a tweet supporting the #LandBack movement on Canada Day. The tweet from the Canadian branch of the company read: “Another day...
June 22, 2023
Students in northern B.C. could learn Dakelh as early as the next school year as B.C. approves curriculum
Spoken by 625 people in Canada, Dakelh is considered an endangered language CBC News: Posted: Jun 21, 2023 11:27 PM EDT | Last Updated: June 22 Students across British Columbia will soon have the opportunity to learn the Dakelh language as part of their studies as early as the next academic year. On Monday, officials from...
June 12, 2023
Residential school memorial pole will make stops on Vancouver Island before installation in Vancouver
Windspeaker.com – “All those children who were taken away to go to Indian residential schools were really loved by their families. They were being well brought up, well taken care of…” — Kwakiutl carver Stanley Hunt A blackened column carved with children’s faces, representing lives lost at Indian residential schools, has been created by acclaimed...
June 5, 2023
Indigenous-driven solutions lead the way on Path Forward
NationTalk: VICTORIA – To support B.C.’s commitment to end violence against Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people, the B.C. government has provided a grant of $5.5 million to continue the Path Forward Community Fund managed by the BC Association of Aboriginal Friendship Centres (BCAAFC). The Path Forward Community Fund provides funding for community safety planning and...
April 28, 2023
Grand chief says B.C. declaration fund ‘special moment in history’ to build province
NationTalk: CTV News – Indigenous leaders in British Columbia say a $200-million provincial government fund will help First Nations participate fully in the implementation of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. Several Indigenous leaders heaped praise on the new government fund at a news conference at the legislature, saying the Declaration...
April 4, 2023
Cdn. Academy of Health Sciences (CAHS) Releases Health Human Resources Assessment Report
NationTalk: Ottawa – Today, the Canadian Academy of Health Sciences (CAHS) released its report on health human resources (HHR) in Canada. The report, titled “Canada’s Health Workforce: Pathways Forward”, provides key findings designed to inform stakeholders (including governments). The report provides evidence-informed approaches to addressing the current challenges facing the Canadian health workforce. The three...
April 4, 2023
Pilot projects could pave way forward for Indigenous health care
Based on the principles of nationhood, individual Indigenous communities take the lead in determining how their communities will work with partners to address health care disparities. iPolitics: Four community-led pilot projects have seen significant improvements in health care for Indigenous communities across the country, supporters say, leading to a push for the government to address...
March 31, 2023
New Indigenous Justice Centre coming to Kelowna
INDIGENOUS JUSTICE CENTRES Photo: BCFNJC Indigenous residents in Kelowna will be able to access “culturally appropriate justice services” by the end of this year. Earlier this week, the BC First Nations Justice Council announced five new Indigenous Justice Centres that are being built across the province, in Kelowna, Surrey, Vancouver, Victoria and Nanaimo. The council says the...
March 31, 2023
New Indigenous Justice Centre coming to Kelowna
INDIGENOUS JUSTICE CENTRES Photo: BCFNJC Indigenous residents in Kelowna will be able to access “culturally appropriate justice services” by the end of this year. Earlier this week, the BC First Nations Justice Council announced five new Indigenous Justice Centres that are being built across the province, in Kelowna, Surrey, Vancouver, Victoria and Nanaimo. The council says the...
March 30, 2023
Parents win battle to have son’s Kwak̓wala name on his B.C. birth certificate
Crystal Smith took fight to recognize λugʷaləs K’ala’ask Shaw’s name to B.C. Supreme Court Anna McKenzie · LJI Reporter · Posted: Mar 30, 2023 1:39 PM EDT | Last Updated: March 30 CBC News: After 13 months of fighting, the parents of λugʷaləs K’ala’ask Shaw have received a birth certificate that accurately represents the spelling of his name. It’s...
March 14, 2023
B.C. government approves $3B First Nation-owned Cedar LNG project, bringing it one step closer to reality
Project will create 500 jobs during construction, 100 jobs once operational: province CBC News: The $3-billion Cedar liquefied natural gas facility (LNG) proposed by the Haisla Nation in partnership with Pembina Pipeline Corporation has been issued an environmental assessment certificate by the provincial government, bringing construction of the floating facility in Kitimat, B.C., one step...
February 21, 2023
B.C. First Nations Languages Report Shows Increase in Language Learners, Needs Long-term Support
NationTalk: W̱JOȽEȽP, UNCEDED TERRITORY OF W̱SÁNEĆ NATION / BRENTWOOD BAY, B.C. – A comprehensive survey of B.C. First Nations languages reveals that investments in language revitalization are working, resulting in more B.C. First Nations people engaged in learning their language than was previously reported. Now in its fourth edition, the First Peoples’ Cultural Council’s (FPCC’s)...
February 11, 2023
As more high schools add Indigenous- focused compulsory courses, some warn against a siloed approach
‘Reconciliation will only exist … when we see it in every aspect of a student’s experience,’ says professor CBC News: As a Shakespeare fan who loves sharing his work with students, Windsor, Ont., English teacher Carolyn Howlett admits she felt a bit apprehensive when her board began work shifting its Grade 11 English course to focus...
February 7, 2023
B.C. introduces legislation to make national reconciliation day a September statutory holiday
The Globe and Mail: The British Columbia government has introduced legislation to make Sept. 30 a paid statutory holiday marking the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. Labour Minister Harry Bains introduced a bill in the legislature Tuesday, saying the holiday will be observed this September and every Sept. 30 afterwards. He says the B.C....
January 4, 2023
B.C. top court broadens sentencing law aimed at reducing Indigenous incarceration rates
British Columbia’s top court has broadened the sweep of a sentencing law meant to reduce incarceration rates among Indigenous peoples, ruling that Indigenous-specific sentencing can be applied even to offenders who have become disconnected from Indigenous communities and are only minimally aware of their heritage. “Disconnection is one of the very harms associated with Canada’s...
December 21, 2022
First rent supplements begin for youth from care in B.C.
VICTORIA – Young people from government care have more support to make stronger transitions into adulthood because of $600-a-month rent supplements. Beginning this month, 797 young adults from government care began receiving monthly support through the Ministry of Children and Family Development’s new Rent Supplement Program. “We know that youth and young adults from care...
December 9, 2022
Opinion: Can’t read c̓aləχʷəlenəx? For Indigenous Canadians, that’s a point of pride.
Washington Post: By J.J. McCullough, Global Opinions contributing columnist Is being forced to use the English alphabet to communicate basic information about yourself a form of cultural oppression? In Canada, this is a question that seems to be popping up more and more as Indigenous citizens — and in some cases, citizens of other non-European backgrounds...
December 1, 2022
Province provides update on work addressing racism in B.C. health care
NationTalk: VICTORIA – The Ministry of Health has released a progress report on government’s steps to address Indigenous-specific racism in B.C.’s health-care system, as recommended in the In Plain Sight: Addressing Indigenous-specific Racism and Discrimination in BC Health Care report. Government is committed to advancing reconciliation with Indigenous people. Eradicating Indigenous-specific racism in British Columbia...
November 25, 2022
B.C. passes historic legislation to uphold Indigenous jurisdiction over child welfare
NationTalk: VICTORIA – B.C. child and family welfare laws now respect and uphold the inherent rights of Indigenous communities to provide their own child and family services with the passing of new legislation. The Indigenous Self-Government in Child and Family Services Amendment Act makes B.C. the first jurisdiction in Canada to recognize an inherent right of self-government specifically in provincial...
November 14, 2022
The First Peoples’ Cultural Council delivers $5.4 million for First Nations heritage infrastructure.
NationTalk: W̱JOȽEȽP, UNCEDED TERRITORY OF W̱SÁNEĆ NATION / BRENTWOOD BAY B.C. – The First Peoples’ Cultural Council (FPCC) will deliver more than $5.4 million this year to support 16 projects that conserve, repair and develop First Nations heritage infrastructure in B.C. The projects are made possible with funding from the Province of British Columbia’s 150...
November 9, 2022
National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence a significant step towards gender equality
Pictou County, Nova Scotia – Women and Gender Equality Canada Living a life free from violence is a fundamental human right, but gender‑based violence (GBV) continues to be a significant barrier to achieving gender equality in Canada. It is one of the most pervasive, deadly, and deeply rooted human rights violations of our time. Federal,...
November 4, 2022
People in Williams Lake receive improved access to First-Nations-led primary care
NationTalk: WILLIAMS LAKE – First Nations people living in Williams Lake and the surrounding communities of the Dakelh Dene, Tŝilhqot’in and Secwepemc Nations have access to culturally safe primary care with the opening of a new First Nations Wellness Centre (FNWC) on Oct. 11, 2022, at 281 1st Ave. North. “The First Nations Wellness Centre in...
October 29, 2022
B.C. gives Indigenous groups control over child welfare
Globe and Mail: British Columbia is overhauling its child-welfare system to ensure First Nations are able to assume complete control over the care of their children. The move was hailed by Indigenous groups as an important step forward toward recognizing the principles of the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. The government said...
October 25, 2022
Vancouver City Council Passes Historic UNDRIP Strategy
Today, October 25, 2022, Vancouver City Council passed the City of Vancouver’s United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) Strategy, as recommended by a Task Force led by the Musqueam Indian Band, Squamish Nation, and Tsleil-Waututh Nation. The adoption of the UNDRIP Strategy is historic, positioning Vancouver as a national and global...
October 24, 2022
New guidance on legislation supports Indigenous rights
NationTalk: VICTORIA – New guidance for the B.C. government from the Declaration Act Secretariat provides best practices for working with Indigenous Peoples on the development of provincial laws and policies, which advance Indigenous rights. The Interim Approach to Implement the Requirements of Section 3 of the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (Interim Approach) is...
October 20, 2022
Vancouver’s UNDRIP strategy with First Nations first of its kind in Canada
Vancouver city council is days away from voting on an historic document involving the Musqueam, Squamish and Tsleil-Waututh nations that aims to create a pathway to implement a long list of recommendations to address the city’s colonial past and recognize rights and title of Indigenous peoples. The document — the first of its kind for...
October 19, 2022
Vancouver task force on Indigenous rights releases report for city council
APTN National News: The Squamish Nation victory song rang out in Vancouver as chiefs, leaders from the community and representatives from city hall gathered to celebrate a report by a joint task force on how to implement the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) in B.C.’s largest city. The task force...
September 23, 2022
Govt. of BC funds pilot program to address structural factors contributing to Indigenous overrepresentation in the criminal justice system
NationTalk: tkwəɬniwt (Westbank), Syilx Territory, BC: Recommendations from an independent investigation into ‘repeat offenders’ were announced today by the Province of BC. Among these was a recommendation for the Province to fund the development of a pilot project, designed and led by the BC First Nations Justice Council (BCFNJC) to address the structural factors that...
September 21, 2022
Indigenous communities, businesses get support to increase food security
NationTalk: Indigenous communities and businesses in British Columbia wanting to increase food security will soon have opportunities to grow their farming and food-processing operations through the new Indigenous Food Systems and Agriculture Partnership Program. “Supporting Indigenous communities to get the tools and help they need to be successful in the agricultural industry is a vital...
September 16, 2022
First Métis Education Agreement in Canada creates culturally responsive education system for Métis youth in K-12
NationTalk: The Greater Victoria School District, Métis Nation Greater Victoria, and Métis Nation British Columbia have co-developed the first tripartite Métis Education Agreement for Kindergarten through Grade 12 in Canada. The purpose of the agreement is to represent the voice of Métis people in the Capital Regional District and ensure culturally relevant education and early...
September 9, 2022
BC Representative for Children and Youth releases Hands, not Hurdles to mark International FASD Awareness Day
Representative Jennifer Charlesworth is marking International Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Awareness Day with the release of a new resource aimed to inform and assist practitioners working with B.C. children and youth who have the disability and their families. Hands, not Hurdles: Helping Children with FASD and their Families is a condensed and easily digestible version...
July 11, 2022
AFN Calls For First Ministers Meeting on UNDRIP at Council of The Federation
Assembly of First Nations: BC Regional Chief Terry Teegee issued the following statement after a meeting with provincial and territorial premiers today in advance of the Council of the Federation meeting taking place later today in Victoria, BC. “It is important for First Nations to meet with premiers on priorities and initiatives that impact our...
July 6, 2022
University of Northern BC institutes working to increase safety and respect for Indigenous Peoples in Canada’s health systems
Indigenous Services Canada: Prince George, unceded lands of the Lheidli T’enneh people, British Columbia — The National Collaborating Centre for Indigenous Health (NCCIH) and the Health Arts Research Centre (HARC), both housed at the University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC), are receiving new funds to support health care professionals to address anti-Indigenous racism, practise in...
July 6, 2022
BC First Nations Justice Council, BC and Canada continue to advance Indigenous justice priorities in British Columbia
Department of Justice Canada: lək̓ʷəŋən Lkwungen (Lekwungen)/ Victoria, B.C. Dismantling systemic racism and discrimination from our justice system and revitalizing Indigenous legal traditions will benefit everyone in Canada. A justice system that improves public safety and community well-being while addressing the challenges faced by Indigenous peoples is something that all Canadians can be proud to...
June 24, 2022
Lheidli T’enneh declare they are the rights and title holders of their lands
APTN: On Indigenous Peoples Day, the Lheidli T’enneh Nation announced that it, and it alone are the rights and title holders of their lands. The nation also makes it clear resource extraction projects will need their consent in the territory before moving ahead. Lheidli T’enneh First Nation said they’ve never ceded their territory through treaty or war....
June 6, 2022
Tahltan Central Government and BC sign first consent-based decision-making agreement under the Declaration Act
NationTalk: VICTORIA – Tahltan Central Government and the Province have entered into the first consent-based decision-making agreement under the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (Declaration Act). This agreement honours Tahltan’s jurisdiction in land-management decisions in Tahltan Territory, in recognition of Tahltan’s title and rights within its territory. The agreement advances reconciliation as...
May 26, 2022
Bill M209 proposes useing Indigenous characters, symbols on B.C. IDs
Chemainus Valley Courier: Emme Abbs, a Grade 12 student in Golden, has inspired Columbia River-Revelstoke MLA Doug Clovechok to introduce a private member’s bill that would allow Indigenous language characters on birth certificates, adoption papers and pieces of government identification in B.C. Clovechok says a letter that she wrote him is what led him to...
May 13, 2022
Renewal of Vancouver Island Partnership Accord
NationTalk: A renewed commitment to improve the health and wellness outcomes of all First Nations people living in the Island Health region was made between the First Nations Health Authority, Island Health and the Vancouver Island Regional Caucus representing the 50 Nations on Vancouver Island through the signing of the renewed Vancouver Island Partnership Accord. A...
March 30, 2022
Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act Action Plan 2022 – 2027
British Columbia introduced an Indigenous reconciliation plan Wednesday that sets goals toward implementing its law on the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples…Premier John Horgan said the five-year plan represents a mutual commitment to work together to achieve its 89 goals. n 2019, B.C. was the first jurisdiction in North America to...
February 22, 2022
Kinder Morgan Trans Mountain Pipeline
The total Project cost has increased from $12.6 to $21.4 billion. This estimate includes the costs of all known Project enhancements, changes, delays and financing, including impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and the substantial preliminary impacts of the November 2021 BC floods in the Hope, Coquihalla and Fraser Valley areas. The Project proudly embodies unprecedented...
January 20, 2022
BC First Nations Justice Strategy
Dept. of Justice, Canada – Announcement of the signing of a tripartite memorandum of understanding (MOU) between BC, Canada and BC First Nations Justice Council to support the implementation of the BC First Nations Justice Strategy, as well as funding to support Indigenous Justice Centres in British Columbia. The parties have committed to work together...
January 20, 2022
BC First Nations Justice Strategy
Dept. of Justice, Canada – Announcement of the signing of a tripartite memorandum of understanding (MOU) between BC, Canada and BC First Nations Justice Council to support the implementation of the BC First Nations Justice Strategy, as well as funding to support Indigenous Justice Centres in British Columbia. The parties have committed to work together...
January 20, 2022
BC First Nations Justice Strategy
Department of Justice Canada – Announced of the signing of a tripartite memorandum of understanding (MOU) between BC, Canada and BC First Nations Justice Council to support the implementation of the BC First Nations Justice Strategy, as well as funding to support Indigenous Justice Centres in British Columbia. The parties have committed to work together...
January 20, 2022
Signing Tripartite MOU to support BC First Nations Justice Strategy
Dept. of Justice, Canada – Announcement of the signing of a tripartite memorandum of understanding (MOU) between BC, Canada and BC First Nations Justice Council to support the implementation of the BC First Nations Justice Strategy, as well as funding to support Indigenous Justice Centres in British Columbia. The parties have committed to work together on...
January 7, 2022
Williams Lake First Nation
CIRNA – $1,912,460 Williams Lake First Nation will undertake work related to burial sites associated with the former St. Joseph’s Mission Residential School. The community is currently completing a preliminary investigation that includes interviews with former students and their families, an initial geophysical survey, and the compilation of archival and photographic records related to the disappearances and...
December 10, 2021
First Nations led Olympic Bid
Inside the Games – The Lil̓wat7úl (Lil’wat), xwmə kwəy’əm (Musqueam), Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish) and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) First Nations, the City of Vancouver and the Resort Municipality of Whistler have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to explore the possibility of hosting the Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games in Vancouver in 2030. In a joint statement, the...
November 29, 2021
First Nations Leadership Council
First Nations leadership Council – On the second anniversary of British Columbia passing Bill 41, the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (Declaration Act)…the Province has yet to transform legislative processes to ensure new and existing laws are consistent with the UN Declaration, has not substantially and equitably advanced shared decision-making agreements with...
November 28, 2021
First Nations leadership Council criticizes lack of progress in implementing UNDRIP
First Nations leadership Council – On the second anniversary of British Columbia passing Bill 41, the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (Declaration Act)…the Province has yet to transform legislative processes to ensure new and existing laws are consistent with the UN Declaration, has not substantially and equitably advanced shared decision-making agreements with...
November 18, 2021
Ahousaht and Christie IRS
Times-Colonist – Ahousaht First Nation is taking its first steps toward searching the grounds of two former residential schools on its territory for human remains. Some buildings of the former school remain on the site, now known as Maatsquiaht, as well as newer buildings. The National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation found 13 recorded deaths...
November 17, 2021
Bill 29 amends the Interpretation Act
BC Government – Tabled Bill 29 which amends the Interpretation Act to make it clear that all provincial laws uphold, and do not diminish, the rights of Indigenous people protected under section 35 of the Canadian Constitution. This is known as a universal non-derogation clause. The amendments to the Interpretation Act, developed in consultation and...
October 19, 2021
BC Commitment to First Nations
The Province of BC confirmed that it has responsibility for providing health services to all residents of BC, including First Nations. Additionally, committees, such as the Tripartite Committee on First Nations Health and the Implementation Committee, work in direct partnership with FNHA to advance progress on issues like Jordan’s Principle...
October 5, 2021
The Virtual Indigenous Justice Centre
Government of BC – The Virtual Indigenous Justice Centre (VIJC) is a partnership between the Province and the BC First Nations Justice Council (BCFNJC). The centre will provide a range of assistance and supports to Indigenous peoples, including First Nations, Inuit and Métis, who are otherwise not eligible and/or cannot access legal aid, including: providing...
August 12, 2021
Gitanyow Governance Accord
The Gitanyow Hereditary Chiefs (Nation/Huwilp) and the government of BC and Canada have signed the Gitanyow Governance Accord. The accord provides a path forward in the B.C. Treaty process toward full self-government. Led by the restored Gitanyow hereditary governance system....
August 10, 2021
St. Paul’s IRS – 60+ unmarked graves
The Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation) announce an Indigenous-led initiative, on behalf of its people and in partnership with its relatives the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam) and səl̓ilw̓ətaʔɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations, to find answers about the children who attended the former St. Paul’s Indian Residential School (1899-1959) but never made it home. According to public records, 12 unidentified students...
August 5, 2021
B.C. residential school response fund
First Nations with former Indian Residential School and Indian Hospital sites in or near their communities can now access the B.C. residential school response fund with the added support of two newly appointed First Nations liaisons. The B.C. government has appointed Charlene Belleau (herself a residential school survivor) and Lydia Hwitsum as First Nations liaisons,...
July 20, 2021
Criteria for B.C. residential school response fund
B.C. residential school response fund is available to support activities on the sites of former Indian Residential Schools and Indian Hospitals. Up to $475,000 is available for each site. Funding is available for: Mental health and wellness and clinical supports Traditional wellness and cultural supports Archival research Engagement with Elders, knowledge-keepers, survivors, intergenerational survivors and...
July 13, 2021
Kuper Island IRS – 160+ unmarked graves
Kuper Island School on Penelakut Island was operated by the Catholic Church until 1969. Indigenous children from up and down the B.C. coast were sent there, and its remote locations earned it the nickname of “Canada’s Alcatraz”. Archaeological research there began in 2014 as part of the TRC’s work on missing children. After the TRC...
June 23, 2021
Health Standards Organization Draft Standard
Health Standards Organization (HSO), in partnership with the First Nations Health Authority (FNHA), is pleased to open a public review on its new British Columbia (B.C.) First Nations, Métis and Inuit Cultural Safety and Humility standard (HSO 75000:2022 E Cultural Safety and Humility B.C.). The draft standard, which is the first of its kind in...
June 20, 2021
St. Eugene’s IRS – 182 unmarked graves
St. Eugene’s IRS operated from 1890 to 1970 with children from member bands of Ktunaxa nation, and neighbouring First Nation communities”. The community of Aq’am conducted a search of the schoolgrounds using ground-penetrating radar in 2020 and they are still in the early stages of interpreting the reports from those searches...
May 28, 2021
Kamloops IRS – 200 unmarked graves
Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc First Nation – National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation (NCTR) and the Indian Residential School History and Dialogue Centre (IRSHDC) at UBC – NCTR and IRSHDC re calling on the federal government to work in collaboration with residential school Survivors and Indigenous governments to establish a national framework for investigation and protection...
April 15, 2021
Miyoopimatishihk (Wellbeing) Program
The Métis Nation of BC announced Miyoopimatishihk (Wellbeing) Program that provides access for supports for early childhood development for Métis families with children birth to eight. The Ministry of Education will distribute information about the program to Métis families enrolled in the Métis Family Connections Program. The Métis Early Years Community Coordinator will assist families...
April 15, 2021
Excluded: Increasing Understanding, Support and Inclusion for Children with FASD and their Families
BC Representative for Children and Youth – released a report “Excluded: Increasing Understanding, Support and Inclusion for Children with FASD and their Families” that recommends that the provincial government should take both immediate and long-term action to improve supports and services to children with fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) and their families. Children with suspected or...
March 30, 2021
BC First Nations Justice Council assumes management of BC’s Gladue report program
Beginning April 1, 2021, management of B.C.’s Gladue report program will transition from Legal Aid BC to the BC First Nations Justice Council. “This transition is another step toward implementing our Indigenous Justice Strategy, which was drafted by Indigenous people for Indigenous people,” said David Eby, Attorney General. The BCFNJC will work closely with impacted...
December 15, 2020
“A Parent’s Duty: Government’s Obligation to Youth Transitioning into Adulthood”
BC Representative for Children and Youth released “A Parent’s Duty: Government’s Obligation to Youth Transitioning into Adulthood. “This report is about those youth. It’s about good intentions gone unrealized, and systems that look much better on paper than in reality. It’s about supports that are notoriously scarce, inequitable, rigid, and a poor fit for so...
December 10, 2020
Williams Lake Indigenous Court
Prince George Citizen: Williams Lake Indigenous Court will have its first sitting at the Elks Hall following a virtual soft opening Friday, Dec. 11. Yeqox Nilin Justice Society has worked towards establishing such a court within the Williams Lake area for the past six years. The specialized court does not conduct trials, but provides collaborative...
November 26, 2020
Bill 22 and Bill 17 passed without engaging First Nations Title and Rights holders
Bill 22 “Mental Health Amendment Act” and Bill 17 “Clean Energy Amendment Act“, were passed without engaging with First Nations Title and Rights holders and without regard to the detrimental impacts these bills stand to have on First Nations and the rejection of these bills that many First Nations publicly provided. As a result, the...
November 3, 2020
Gwa’sala-`Nakwaxda’xw First Nations court
The latest of these courts under development is on northern Vancouver Island, led by the Gwa’sala-`Nakwaxda’xw First Nations in partnership with the RCMP, local Crown counsel, judges and other stakeholders. The court plan is queued for final review by the Judicial Council of B.C. in January...
September 7, 2020
Indigenous Justice Centres
Indigenous justice centres have recently opened in Merritt, Prince George and Prince Rupert. While each centre offers unique supports tailored to the local Indigenous community, individuals are able to access: legal advice and representation for criminal and child protection matters; advocacy and support in dealing with agencies such as the police and Ministry of Children and...
July 23, 2020
Invisible Children: A Descriptive Analysis of Injury and Death Reports for Métis Children and Youth in British Columbia, 2015 to 2017
Representative for Children and Youth Jennifer Charlesworth today released a report examining critical injuries and deaths of Métis children and youth. “Invisible Children: A Descriptive Analysis of Injury and Death Reports for Métis Children and Youth in British Columbia, 2015 to 2017” recognizes that Métis children and youth and their data have historically been categorized...
June 30, 2020
First Annual Report for Implementing UNDRIP
The Province has released the first annual report on progress for implementing UNDRIP. Release of the 2019/2020 UNDRIP Report Card outlines progress made towards implementation for the time period from the date on which the Declaration Act was brought into force (November 28, 2019) until end of fiscal year 2019/20 (March 31, 2020). Progress to...
June 4, 2020
Funding to cover living expenses
The Ministry of Children and Family Development is also investing $30 million over three years to help cover monthly living expenses while children and youth in care finish high school or attend post-secondary, life skills and/or rehabilitation programs up to their 27th birthday. “Indigenous children who have aged out of care now have the opportunity...
May 26, 2020
The First Nations Children and Youth in Care Protocol
The First Nations Children and Youth in Care Protocol commits the Province and First Nations to work together on specific issues and initiatives, seeking to improve the educational outcomes and well-being of Indigenous children and youth in care, and former youth in care through legislative, policy and practice reform and family services. Work will include...
May 14, 2020
Wet’suwet’en Hereditary chiefs sign a Memorandum of Understanding
Hereditary chiefs of the Wet’suwet’en Nation have signed a memorandum of understanding with B.C. and Canada that sets the path for negotiations on legal recognition of their title to 22,000 square kilometres of traditional territory. Effective immediately, the MOU commits Canada and B.C. to recognize that rights and title are held by house groups within the Wet’suwet’en...
May 12, 2020
Wet’suwet’en Hereditary Chiefs to sign MOU with governments of Canada and BC
Wet’suwet’en leaders have invited Ms. Bennett and Mr. Fraser to sign the MOU on May 14. Wetsu’wet’en Hereditary Chiefs issued a statement: “The Dinï’ze and Tsakë’ze have had several clan meetings, including meetings in person, and virtual meetings with clan/house members, band council members, youth, elders, people close to home and those far away. The...
March 6, 2020
First Nations Justice Strategy
The BC First Nations Justice Council (BCFNJC) and the Province endorsed and signed a new First Nations Justice Strategy. The BCFNJC’s action is supported by resolutions from the BC Assembly of First Nations, the Union of BC Indian Chiefs and the First Nations Summit. The First Nations Justice Strategy sets a path for the partners...
March 6, 2020
BC First Nations Justice Strategy
The BC First Nations Justice Council (BCFNJC) and the Province endorsed and signed a new First Nations Justice Strategy. The BCFNJC’s action is supported by resolutions from the BC Assembly of First Nations, the Union of BC Indian Chiefs and the First Nations Summit. The First Nations Justice Strategy sets a path for the partners...
February 7, 2020
Indigenous education reform
Part one of a two-phase plan to improve the way education is delivered in B.C. following the completion of a comprehensive review that examined ways to ensure every child has equal and consistent access to a quality education. As part of the equity recommendations, Indigenous students will continue to benefit from targeted funding for culturally...
January 13, 2020
First Indigenous Court in New Westminster
The province’s first Indigenous court was established in New Westminster in 2006, with the seventh iteration scheduled to begin sitting monthly at the Williams Lake courthouse in May. An Indigenous court is a sentencing court — it does not conduct trials, but it provides an Indigenous perspective, based on a holistic and restorative approach, to...
January 13, 2020
First Indigenous court in New Westminster
The province’s first Indigenous court was established in New Westminster in 2006, with the seventh scheduled to begin sitting monthly at the Williams Lake courthouse in May. An Indigenous court is a sentencing court — it does not conduct trials, but it provides an Indigenous perspective, based on a holistic and restorative approach, to sentencing...
December 16, 2019
Government support for Williams Lake court
Attorney General David Eby issued the following statement in support of the new Indigenous court in Williams Lake. “The Province is working with Indigenous communities to establish Indigenous courts throughout British Columbia. These courts offer alternative sentencing options that honour traditional cultural practices, support rehabilitation and acknowledge the impact the person’s actions have had on...
November 28, 2019
Bill 41 “UNDRIP Act” receives Royal Assent
The Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (Bill 41) received Royal Assent in British Columbia....
October 24, 2019
Introduction of Bill 41 ”The Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act”
Premier John Horgan’s government introduced Bill 41 – ”The Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act” to have the laws of BC reflect the United Nations Declaration of the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. The declaration’s 46 articles are aimed at making sure Indigenous peoples can survive with dignity and are treated fairly and with...
September 16, 2019
B.C. ends controversial birth alert system that affected Indigenous mothers disproportionately
The Globe and Mail: British Columbia will no longer ask hospitals to alert child-welfare authorities if they believe newborns could be at risk of harm due to their parents’ backgrounds, a practice that resulted in more than half of such notifications being issued for Indigenous mothers. The B.C. government on Monday said it would end...
September 15, 2019
Expansion of the Lu’ma Medical Centre
First Nations and other residents in Metro Vancouver will have increased access to culturally safe and appropriate primary health care thanks to the Province and First Nations Health Authority (FNHA) supporting expansion of the Lu’ma Medical Centre. The Ministry of Health and FNHA are partnering to provide more than $1.8 million in ongoing funding and...
September 4, 2019
Recognition and Reconciliation of Rights Policy for Treaty Negotiations in British Columbia
Recognition and Reconciliation of Rights Policy for Treaty Negotiations in British Columbia” a policy signed by First Nations Summit, the BC Government and the Government of Canada to facilitate the negotiation of Modern Treaties. Participating First Nations are those who want to negotiate “ a modern treaty” versus those First Nations (Union of BC Indian...
June 28, 2019
Funding to offset costs
$1.46M in funding to offset costs for more than 500 athletes, coaches, chaperones and mission staff from B.C. Without this funding, fees would need to be increased and participation on Team BC would be out of reach for many families. Reducing barriers to participation in sport remains a priority for both the provincial government and...
June 28, 2019
Funding to offset costs for athletes, coaches, chaperones and mission staff
Funding to offset costs for more than 500 athletes, coaches, chaperones and mission staff from B.C. Without this funding, fees would need to be increased and participation on Team BC would be out of reach for many families. Reducing barriers to participation in sport remains a priority for both the provincial government and (I∙SPARC). Its...
June 18, 2019
Progress audit on education of Aboriginal students
The Office of the Auditor General of British Columbia has released a progress audit on the Ministry of Education’s changes since the office’s 2015 report on the education of Aboriginal students in the B.C. public school system. The original 2015 audit found there were gaps between Indigenous and non-Indigenous students in reading, writing and math...
June 13, 2019
Indigenous teacher education
$2.7M investment in Indigenous teacher education training to educate teachers on how to integrate Indigenous knowledge and teaching methods into classrooms. The funding includes $1.4 million toward teacher education seats for Indigenous students. An additional $600,000 to integrate Indigenous knowledge and culture into the B.C. teacher education curriculum will provide $50,000 to eight institutions for the...
June 5, 2019
The First Nations Public Service Secretariat and the First Nations Summit MOU with the British Columbia Federal Council
The First Nations Public Service Secretariat (FNPSS) and the First Nations Summit (FNS) were pleased today to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the British Columbia Federal Council (BCFC). The MOU strengthens First Nations and Federal public service institutions by facilitating the mutual exchange of expertise and experience. The MOU formalizes the relationship between...
May 29, 2019
Minister’s Advisory Council on Indigenous Women’s “Giving Voice Program”
Minister’s Advisory Council on Indigenous Women’s (MACIW) Giving Voice Program $689K over 2 yrs. Grants from $2.5K-$16K The Province is supporting Indigenous communities and organizations to end gender-based violence through 48 unique community-driven projects that support, teach and celebrate Indigenous women throughout B.C. This year’s projects include traditional activities like knowledge workshops and healing circles....
May 24, 2019
Funding for two new urban treatment centres and to repair and renovate others
The Province and First Nations Health Authority (FNHA) are contributing $20 million each to build two new urban treatment centres and repair and renovate others. These centres support access for First Nations people to mental health, wellness and substance use services. First Nations-led treatment services have Elders and traditional healers directly involved in patient care...
April 3, 2019
Declaration of Commitment to Advance Cultural Safety and Humility in Health and Wellness Services
Declaration of Commitment to Advance Cultural Safety and Humility in Health and Wellness Services first launched by the First Nations Health Authority in July, 2015 with signatories of the Government of BC has now been signed by the federal departments of Indigenous Services and Health, as well as the Public Health Agency of Canada...
March 15, 2019
Long-term reconciliation agreement with 7 Secwepemc communities and the Province
Seven Secwepemc communities and the Province (Ministers of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation; Environment and Climate Change Strategy; Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development; and Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources) have committed to collaborating on a long-term reconciliation agreement focused on implementing inherent rights, improving community well-being and advancing government-to-government relationships. They will align...
January 25, 2019
Cowichan Tribes LOU
Signing of a Letter of Understanding (LOU) to support the development of a framework and process for Cowichan Tribes to exercise their jurisdiction over child and family services for their members. This LOU between Canada, British Columbia and the Cowichan Tribes provides a framework that charts the path forward in recognizing and implementing Cowichan jurisdiction...
January, 2019
BC Sport Participation Program
BC Sport Participation Program (BCSPP), funded $244,000 in 2018/19 equally by the Government of Canada and the Province of British Columbia. This new funding will also improve sport opportunities for Indigenous populations and support projects that strengthen physical literacy and the participation of children and youth in sport as well as strengthen the capacity and...
December 18, 2018
Budget increase
The ministry is increasing funding to support Indigenous students, bringing the total funding to $89.6 million this year — a $14.7 million increase over last year and a 29% increase over the 2016-17 school year....
December 1, 2018
BC Government Employee Union
BCGEU (BC Government Employee Union) is the only union with legal standing at the MMIWG Inquiry. Release of “Naut’sa mawt sqwaluwun: Working together with one mind and one heart”: recommendations from the 77,000 members to the Commission in the following four areas: Systemic racism Unequal access to services and supports Injustice in the justice system...
November 3, 2018
Eleventh Justice Summit: Indigenous II
Nov. 3-4, 2018: Planned in partnership with representatives from the B.C. Aboriginal Justice Council and the Métis Nation British Columbia, the event invited Indigenous leaders and community experts, as well as justice and public safety leaders, to discuss Indigenous peoples’ experiences with B.C.’s justice system and how the system can be improved. Participants discussed the importance...
November 2, 2018
Government partnership with First Nations and Métis
($3.6M over three years). A new partnership between the B.C. government and Métis Nation BC, the BC Aboriginal Child Care Society and the BC Association of Aboriginal Friendship Centres to support 11 new early learning and child care planning and navigator positions to help address the specific needs of Indigenous children, families and communities throughout...
November 2, 2018
Eleventh Justice Summit: Indigenous II
Planned in partnership with representatives from the B.C. Aboriginal Justice Council and the Métis Nation British Columbia, the event invited Indigenous leaders and community experts, as well as justice and public safety leaders, to discuss Indigenous peoples’ experiences with B.C.’s justice system and how the system can be improved. Participants discussed the importance of increasing the...
October 18, 2018
Indigenous Cultural Safety interdisciplinary learning experience
Training offered by the Provincial Health Services Authority (PHSA) The UBC 23-24 Indigenous Cultural Safety interdisciplinary learning experience was launched this month as a required component for students in dental hygiene, dentistry, dietetics, genetic counselling, medicine, nursing, midwifery, occupational therapy, pharmacy, physical therapy, and social work. Next year, students in audiology and speech language pathology...
September 6, 2018
Indigenous Resilience, Connectedness and Reunification
Implementing the recommendations from Grand Chief Ed John’s report, Indigenous Resilience, Connectedness and Reunification – From Root Causes to Root Solutions, and provide better supports so Indigenous children grow up in their communities and not in care. http://cwrp.ca/sites/default/files/publications/en/final-report-of-grand-chief-ed-john-re-indig-child-welfare-in-bc-november-2016.pdf...
August 21, 2018
Huu-ay-aht First Nations Social Services Project
Minister of Indigenous Services, announced funding to support the Huu-ay-aht First Nations Social Services Project on child and family services ($4.2M/yr for 5 years; BC Govt $400K). The Province of British Columbia is also providing financial and other support to this initiative. Federal funding will go towards community initiatives such as expanding current pregnancy support...
August 2, 2018
First Nations Languages Report shows increase in language learners, urges action
B.C. First Nations Languages Report Shows Increase in Language Learners, Urges Action. The report gathered information from more than 137,653 First Nations people in B.C. Across the province, 34 unique First Nations languages and 93 dialects are spoken, more than any other province or territory in Canada. In 2018, only three per cent (3%) of Indigenous people in...
July 23, 2018
Secwépemc Chiefs signed a tripartite MOU with the provincial and federal governments
Secwépemc Chiefs signed a tripartite Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the provincial and federal governments on jurisdiction for child and family services. This MOU provides a framework that charts the path forward in recognizing and implementing Secwépemc jurisdiction. “Keeping children and families together, surrounded by their culture and community, is critical for the well-being and...
June 5, 2018
Métis Nation BC and BC Government sign Joint Commitment
The 90,000-strong Métis community in British Columbia is one step closer to taking over child welfare authority for their children and families, with the historic signing of an MNBC and British Columbia Joint Commitment between the Métis Nation British Columbia (MNBC) and the Province setting the goal of transferring authority to MBNC by 2021. The...
May 24, 2018
Expansion of Aboriginal Head Start
Indigenous children under six, and their families, will benefit from an expansion of Aboriginal Head Start (AHS) programs that provide culturally based inclusive child care and early learning, family bonding and prevention services and also create new licensed child care spaces that will be free for families. The FNHA will receive $10.5 million to enhance its...
May 22, 2018
Draft principles designed to guide the daily work of provincial government employees
The Government of BC has underscored its commitment to work with Indigenous peoples in the spirit of respect and collaboration by introducing a set of draft principles designed to guide the daily work of provincial government employees. The province of British Columbia: recognizes that all relations with Indigenous peoples need to be based on the...
May 17, 2018
New funding approach for mental health and wellness services
The Government of Canada, the Province of British Columbia and the First Nations Health Council (FNHC) will establish a new approach for federal and provincial investment in mental health and wellness services. This new funding approach will allow First Nations to plan, design and deliver a continuum of community-based mental health and wellness services based...
April 16, 2018
BC Songhees Nation Games bid.
BC committed $3.5M to their unsuccessful bid for the 2020 NAIG Songhees Nation Games bid....
April 8, 2018
The Indian Residential School History and Dialogue Centre
The Indian Residential School History and Dialogue Centre will house accounts of survivors that were collected by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. The new centre aimed at educating the public about the devastation of the residential school system opens at the University of British Columbia. The two-storey centre was funded by $5.5 million in donations....
March 26, 2018
New Indigenous court in Prince George
The new Indigenous court in Prince George had its grand opening. The court will focus on rehabilitation and giving fairer representation for Indigenous persons, with Lheidli T’enneh elders being involved in the final decisions. “To have elders involved in the process, to have recognition of some of the legacy of colonization, and how that impacts...
February 27, 2018
Funding for Indigenous languages
BC Government has committed $50M in funding toward preserving and revitalizing Indigenous languages throughout the province. Finance Minister Carole James pointed out that Indigenous languages in the province are under threat, emphasizing that B.C. is home to 60 per cent of First Nations languages in the country....
February 18, 2018
FNHA now administers Jordan’s Principle
The First Nations Health Authority is now administering Jordan’s Principle cases in British Columbia. The change comes from an administrative arrangement with the Government of Canada. Jordan’s principle was put into place to prevent First Nations children from being denied or experiencing delays in receiving health services. ...
January 25, 2018
Reconciliation Charter
Formal response to Emergency Meeting in Child and Family Services in Ottawa: The Reconciliation Charter is a high-level political commitment to achieve child-welfare reform focused on addressing current policy and legislative frameworks related to First Nations children and families. It is also focused on improving relations, identifying potential governance models for First Nations communities and...
2018
2008 – 2018
Nine provincial government ministries – including Justice – were involved in the development of “A 10-year Provincial Plan (FASD – Building on Strengths” which demonstrates government’s commitment to a collaborative, cross-ministry approach. The FASD Plan serves to guide the efforts of provincial ministries and regional and community-based partners. It has fostered the coordination of these...
November 18, 2017
Lii Michif Otipemisiwak Family and Community Services
Ministry of Children and Family Development delegates child-protection authority for Métis families in the Kamloops area to Lii Michif Otipemisiwak Family and Community Services. We’re working collaboratively and respectfully with Indigenous and Métis agencies and communities to ensure they have the right tools, funding and support to make a difference for the children and families...
October 18, 2017
Indigenous Cultural Safety interdisciplinary learning experience
Training offered by the Provincial Health Services Authority (PHSA) – The UBC 23-24 Indigenous Cultural Safety interdisciplinary learning experience was launched this month as a required component for students in dental hygiene, dentistry, dietetics, genetic counselling, medicine, nursing, midwifery, occupational therapy, pharmacy, physical therapy, and social work. Next year, students in audiology and speech language pathology...
September 6, 2017
B.C. Cabinet and First Nations Leaders’ Gathering
The B.C. Cabinet and First Nations Leaders’ Gathering made it a priority to provide support to Indigenous communities seeking to revitalize connections to their languages. The revitalization of language is a human right as asserted within the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Programs and projects that will turn new speakers into fluent...
September 6, 2017
B.C. Cabinet and First Nations Leaders’ Gathering
B.C. Cabinet and First Nations Leaders’ Gathering delivered a unified commitment to a government-to-government relationship built upon the recognition of Indigenous title and rights as the path towards reconciliation, with the Tsilhqot’in Supreme Court decision, the UN Declaration and the Truth and Reconciliation Commission Calls to Action as the guide....
July 25, 2017
NDP re-affirms commitment to adopt UNDRIP
New NDP premier re-affirmed his party’s commitment to adopt the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and the calls to action of Canada’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission and has each of his 22 ministers to review policies, programs and legislation to determine how to bring the principles of the declaration into action...
April 10, 2017
Tripartite Reconciliation Charter
Signed tripartite Reconciliation Charter between Governments of Canada and BC and First Nations Leadership Council (BC Assembly of First Nations, First Nations Summit and Union of BC Indian Chiefs). ...
April 7, 2017
Reconciliation Charter
Reconciliation Charter: tripartite agreement between Governments of Canada and BC and First Nations Leadership Council to reduce the number of First Nations children in care, to keep families together and support First Nations youth to successfully transition out of care....
March 1, 2017
“Declaration of Commitment to Cultural Safety and Humility“
The BC Health Regulators (BCHR) represents 23 regulatory colleges governed by the Health Professions Act and the Social Workers Act declared their commitment to making the health system more culturally safe for First Nations and Aboriginal People through actions and processes which will ultimately embed culturally safe practices within all levels of health professional regulation....
March 1, 2017
BC Health Regulators commit to making the health system more culturally safe for Aboriginal People
The BC Health Regulators (BCHR) representing 23 regulatory colleges governed by the Health Professions Act and the Social Workers Act declared their commitment to making the health system more culturally safe for First Nations and Aboriginal People through actions and processes which will ultimately embed culturally safe practices within all levels of health professional regulation....
March 1, 2017
Declaration of Commitment to Cultural Safety and Humility
Declaration of Commitment to Cultural Safety and Humility signed by BC Health Regulators opens the door to formally encouraging all health professionals to complete cultural safety training, such as the San’yas Indigenous Cultural Safety...
March 1, 2017
Declaration of Commitment to Cultural Safety and Humility
Declaration of Commitment to Cultural Safety and Humility signed by BC Health Regulators opens the door to formally encouraging all health professionals to complete cultural safety training, such as the San’yas Indigenous Cultural Safety...
November 5, 2016
Order-in-council giving commissioners the power to examine relevant matters
Issued an order-in-council giving commissioners the power to examine relevant matters within B.C. with two caveats: does not want Crown discretion to be examined at all. May not require the disclosure of information that is subject to a privilege, immunity or other legal restriction.”...
September 6, 2016
Mandatory teacher education credits
As of Sept. 2012, all teachers graduating from teacher education programs must complete 3 credits in First Nations pedagogy and issues related to the historical context of aboriginal learners....
August 3, 2016
Commitment to National Inquiry
Confirm support for, and intention to participate fully in, the national inquiry...
August, 2016
“Equity in Action” – Funding for BC First Nations based-operated schools on reserve
While the funding responsibility for First Nations based-operated schools on reserve rests with the federal government, the Province is contributing in several ways: The Province, as of 2008/09, pays reciprocal tuition to these schools whenever they serve students otherwise eligible for a free B.C. public school education. B.C., Canada, and First Nations, as represented by...
June 16, 2015
Integration of Aboriginal history, culture and perspectives
Aboriginal history and culture and perspectives including ongoing legacy of residential school system have been integrated into the new K-12 curriculum. 56 of BC’s school districts have implemented Aboriginal Enhancement Agreements at the local level to positively impact racism and build awareness of the residential school legacy....
January 1, 2013
Establishment of First Nations Health Authority
B.C.’s First Nations assumed the programs, services and responsibilities in B.C. formerly handled by Health Canada’s First Nations Inuit Health Branch. It became the first, and still the only, such provincial First Nations Health Authority in Canada....
September 1, 2012
Mandatory teacher education credits
As of September 2012, all teachers graduating from B.C. teacher education programs must complete three credits related to the historical context of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis learners....
April 23, 2011
Funding for BC UNDRIP implementation missing from Provincial Budget
BC Assembly of First Nations: “Glaring omissions in the new provincial budget, including how monies will be spent on the BC Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act implementation, are cause for concern for First Nations in BC,” stated Regional Chief Terry Teegee. How much funding will be spent on the costly and critical...
2008
FASD: Building on Strengths. A Provincial Plan for BC. 2008-2018
Nine provincial government ministries – including Justice – were involved in the development of “A 10-year Provincial Plan which demonstrates government’s commitment to a collaborative, cross-ministry approach. The FASD Plan serves to guide the efforts of provincial ministries and regional and community-based partners. It has fostered the coordination of these organizations in addressing the complexities...
January 1, 2003
Formal apology for treatment of Indigenous people
The B.C. government expressed its deep regret for the mistakes of past governments in their treatment of Aboriginal people. The Province acknowledged that no words can undo the damage done for past actions and that it is the responsibility of people today to heal these wounds....
Indigenous Justice Programs
Indigenous Justice Programs deliver programs and services in 34 communities throughout BC. The programs work to reduce victimization, crime and incarceration among Indigenous people by offering individualized programs such as diversion, alternative measures, community work service, sentencing input, restorative justice and reintegration services. As part of this program, BC Corrections and the Justice Institute of...
Hulitan Culturally Appropriate Parenting Skills Assessment
Hulitan Culturally Appropriate Parenting Skills Assessment University of Victoria ‘Hulitan Culturally Appropriate Parenting Skills Assessment” Kwen’an’latel Intensive Parenting Program for Aboriginal parents/caregivers who have had their children taken into foster care by the BC Ministry of Children and Family Development (MCFD) to ensure they remain connected to their culture. http://hulitan.ca/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/KWEN-BROCHURE-Revised-January-2018.pdf...
Spirit of the Children Society
New Westminster, BC – This is an eleven-week traditional Aboriginal parenting program that is modeled around the Medicine Wheel. The program assists individual and family development through educational teachings, sharing personal stories, and learning of traditional Aboriginal culture. Our main objective is to encourage personal healing; to find a balance between ones emotional, physical, mental, and...
Restorative Justice Victim Services
There are currently 32 Indigenous justice programs applying restorative justice principles. Indigenous victims of crime can find victim services in their communities by calling VictimLink BC. VictimLink’s services are available in 130 languages and dialects, including 17 North American Indigenous languages. Native Courtworker and Counselling Association of B.C. NCCABC offices are located in 23 B.C. communities and...