The Nisga'a Nation is a First Nations people in Canada, primarily located in the Nass River Valley region of northwestern British Columbia. The Nisga'a people have their own unique language, culture, and traditions.
In 1998, the Nisga'a Treaty was signed, marking a historic agreement that granted the Nisga'a Nation self-governance rights, land ownership, and other privileges. This treaty is considered a landmark in the context of Indigenous rights in Canada, as it represents a significant step towards recognizing and respecting the autonomy of Indigenous peoples.
1887 – The Nisga'a Chiefs submitted the Nisga'a Land Claim Petition to the Canadian government, seeking recognition of their land rights.
1973 – The Calder case, initiated by Nisga'a leader Frank Calder, reached the Supreme Court of Canada. While the court did not rule in favor of the Nisga'a, it laid the groundwork for future land claims.
1998 – The Nisga'a Final Agreement, the first modern treaty in British Columbia, was signed by the Nisga'a Nation, the provincial government, and the federal government. This agreement granted the Nisga'a self-governance rights, land ownership, and financial compensation.
2000 – The Nisga'a Treaty came into effect, marking the official implementation of the agreement and the establishment of the Nisga'a Lisims Government.
2000 to 2022 – Five Benefit Agreements were signed with mining Companies within Nisga’a Treaty Lands.