Gitxaała Nation Calls for a Pause Ahead of Legislative Debate on Treaty Bills
LAX KLAN, DOLPHIN ISLAND, B.C. – April 22, 2026 – Gitxaała Nation calls for a pause in second reading and debate of Bill 21 on the Kitselas Treaty, until its free, prior and informed consent can be given after protocol and accommodation agreements are reached with British Columbia and Kitselas First Nation. Until that occurs, Gitxaała Nation calls for the immediate suspension of the provincial government’s actions to advance the ratification of the Kitselas Treaty through Bill 21.
Gitxaała Hereditary Chiefs and Elected Council remain firm that the Kitselas Treaty will directly impact Laxyuubm Gitxaała, the territory on the north coast of British Columbia that has been home to Gitxaała Nation for over 10,000 years. British Columbia has not upheld the honour of the Crown and accommodated Gitxaała for those adverse impacts; another example of colonial processes impeding on Gitxaała rights and title to our lands, our waters, and our way of life.
Gitxaała leadership has been clear that British Columbia and Kitselas First Nation must recognize and respect Gitxaała Adaawx (histories), Ayaawx (laws), and Gugwilx’ya’ansk (practices and inherited responsibilities). Respecting these laws means negotiating agreements with our Nation to address concerns on how this and other treaties will give away lands, harvesting rights and governance rights to others in Laxyuubm Gitxaała in contravention of Gitxaała laws.
While Gitxaała respects that its First Nation neighbours have the choice to pursue modern treaties, there has been no agreement on how to reconcile the treaty rights in the Kitselas Treaty with Gitxaała Adaawx, Ayaawx and Gugwilx’ya’ansk. That conversation remains unfinished.
About Gitxaała Nation
The people of the Gitxaała Nation have lived on the North Coast of British Columbia, including the Prince Rupert Harbour Area, since time immemorial and are one of the most ancient societies in the region.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Tyler Pronyk
Coast Communications and Public Affairs
tyler@coastcomms.ca
Tel: 604-807-0710