BC Treaty Commission

10/15/2026

The First Nations Summit was recently published in the Times Colonist sharing their commentary on treaty-making, reconciliation and the best path to shared prosperity.

In their words:

"Today, governments, businesses, communities and residents are asking for certainty. First Nations have been asking for reconciliation. These are not competing objectives.

Certainty is not achieved by avoiding reconciliation. Certainty is achieved through reconciliation...
Modern treaties in B.C. have demonstrated the potential for shared prosperity. Treaty implementation can strengthen communities, build government capacity, create jobs and procurement opportunities, support economic development, reduce pressure on municipal systems and housing markets, create affordable housing, and enhance trade.

The choice is not between economic development and First Nations’ rights. The choice is between an economy built on uncertainty and one built on negotiated certainty with First Nations as partners in prosperity."

10/01/2026

(Content warning: This post contains mention of residential schools.)

This National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, we honour the survivors, families and communities, whose experiences call on us to reflect on the legacy of Canada’s residential schools. Our hearts are especially with Tsawwassen First Nation and those impacted by today’s tragedy.

On this important day of remembrance, we would also like to recognize the passing of two monumental leaders of reconciliation:

Amshen - Joan Philip, the second First Nations woman elected to the BC Legislature, was a fierce advocate for Indigenous rights and protector of the lands and environment. Her life was rooted in service to her community. Alongside her role as an MLA, she worked as a school counsellor and educator and served for more than 20 years as the elected band manager of the Penticton Indian Band. Through every role she held, Joan brought a deep commitment to advocacy, community and the well-being of future generations.

qiyəplenəxʷ - Howard E. Grant, served as the Executive Director of the First Nations Summit for over 27 years, dedicating his life to advancing First Nations title, rights, and self-determination. Howard’s humble and unwavering leadership strengthened First Nations communities across British Columbia. He was recognized for his work by receiving the Order of British Columbia in 2024 and the King Charles III Coronation Medal in 2025.

The BC Treaty Commission remains committed to advancing reconciliation by supporting First Nations, British Columbia and Canada in the work of negotiating modern treaties and agreements, which are aligned with the TRC’s 94 Calls to Action, as a mechanism for supporting self-determination and the recognition of First Nations title and rights.

09/23/2026

The Treaty Commission welcomes the recent Vancouver Sun Op-Ed, by Murray Rankin (former BC Minister of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation) and Mark L. Stevenson (Law¬yer and Negotiator) which write that part of the noise around treaties may lie in wedge politics, public confusion, and the government’s controversial response to DRIPA.

In their words:

“Criticism is legitimate and legislative scrutiny essential. But reconciliation cannot mean praising treaties in principle and opposing them when they finally arrive. The treaties should be debated on their actual terms and recognized for the certainty and predictability they can bring to British Columbia.”

09/23/2026

The Treaty Commission welcomes the recent Vancouver Sun Op-Ed, by Murray Rankin (former BC Minister of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation) and Mark L. Stevenson (Lawyer and Negotiator) which write that part of the noise around treaties may lie in wedge politics, public confusion, and the government’s controversial response to DRIPA.

In their words:

“Criticism is legitimate and legislative scrutiny essential. But reconciliation cannot mean praising treaties in principle and opposing them when they finally arrive. The treaties should be debated on their actual terms and recognized for the certainty and predictability they can bring to British Columbia.”

https://vancouversun.com/opinion/op-ed/opinion-if-treaties-are-highest-form-of-reconciliation-why-all-the-anti-treaty-noise

09/15/2026

Yesterday, 11 former B.C. attorneys general from across the political spectrum signed an open letter upholding modern treaties, and the certainty, opportunity, and reconciliation they make possible.

In their words:

“Modern treaties are good for reconciliation — and good for British Columbia. They establish clear rights and responsibilities for Indigenous nations, public governments, communities, businesses, lenders and investors.”

Their message is clear: “This is not a choice between reconciliation and economic opportunity. Modern treaties help make both possible.”

Achieving reconciliation through fairly negotiated and honourably implemented treaties and agreements.

08/24/2026

BC Treaty Chief Commissioner George Abbott is bringing renewed focus to the complex issue of overlapping and shared territories, with a commitment to practical solutions that support First Nations and keep treaty-making moving forward.

06/29/2026

As we conclude Indigenous History Month, we highlight how land agreements and modern treaties are creating new pathways for Indigenous-led stewardship across British Columbia.

Through land guardian programs, First Nations are strengthening their connection to the land, protecting ecosystems, and advancing long-term sustainability for future generations.

From watershed planning to wildlife monitoring and cultural revitalization, these initiatives reflect a shared commitment to healthy lands and communities that benefit everyone.

06/21/2026

This National Indigenous Peoples Day, we celebrate how modern treaties support Indigenous self-government and create lasting opportunities for language and cultural revitalization.

The Tla'amin Treaty established self-governance and enabled investments in education, culture revitalization and the creation of ʔəms ʔayɛ (Our House)—a gathering place that supports ceremonies, community events, and language learning.

For the Tsawwassen First Nation, treaty implementation has supported hən̓q̓əmin̓əm language learning and initiatives like the TFN Farm School that reconnect members with traditional knowledge and Indigenous food systems.

These are powerful examples of how modern treaties provide the framework for First Nations to strengthen their languages, cultures, and identities while building strong relationships with non-Indigenous neighbours to support vibrant communities for future generations.

06/11/2026

Modern treaties provide legal certainty and framework needed for economic development and regional business partnerships.

This week, we're highlighting the Maa-nulth First Nations Final Agreement (Maa-nulth Treaty) as an example of treaty success. By moving away from the constraint of the Indian Act, these five Nations have unlocked investments in residential housing, community infrastructure, and tourism.

Swipe through to learn how modern treaties benefit First Nations, community, and British Columbians.

06/04/2026

2026 is a milestone year for modern treaties in BC.

This National Indigenous History Month we celebrate historic progress in treaty negotiations across the province.

This year, three First Nations are taking steps forward toward self-determination and shared economic prosperity.

Modern treaties establish a foundation of legal certainty and true partnership, building stronger communities for everyone. Swipe through to read more about these significant milestones!