Honourable Michael de Jong
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AGREEMENT RESOLVES HISTORIC INJUSTICE WITH FIRST NATION – November 27, 2008
Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation Minister Michael de Jong speaks about the New Relationship and reconciliation with the Kwadacha Nation. Chief Donny Van Somer (left) joined Minister de Jong and representatives of the Province and BC Hydro to sign an historic final agreement that addresses historic damages from the creation and operation of the W.A.C. Bennett Dam and Williston Reservoir and builds opportunities for Kwadacha to build a better future for current and future generations. [News release]
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(Left-Right) Chris O’Riley, BC Hydro’s senior vice-president of engineering, Aboriginal relations and generation; Michael de Jong, Minister of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation; and Kwadacha Chief Donny Van Somer sign the final agreement.
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Minister de Jong shakes hands with Chief Donny Van Somer at the conclusion of signing the agreement. With the agreement signed, litigation against the Province and BC Hydro is settled. The final agreement also provides certainty for the future operation of BC Hydro’s facilities and ensures a mutually beneficial relationship between BC Hydro and the Kwadacha Nation in the years ahead. Chris O’Riley, BC Hydro’s senior vice-president of engineering, Aboriginal relations and generation joins Minister de Jong and Chief Donny Van Somer.
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YALE, PROVINCE A MAJOR STEP CLOSER TO FINAL TREATY - November 20, 2008
An understanding signifying the completion of negotiations toward a Final Agreement is signed by Yale First Nation Chief Robert Hope and B.C. Chief Negotiator Marc Lofthouse. Witnessing the signing were B.C. Premier Gordon Campbell and Yale negotiator Rob Reiter. Aboriginal Relations Minister Michael de Jong was the Master of Cremonies for the event held November 20 in the Legislative library. [News release] [Video]
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From the left, Yale First Nation negotiator Rob Reiter, Yale First Nation Chief Robert Hope, Premier Gordon Campbell holding a framed photograph of the Frozen Lakes giving to him by the Yale chief, and Master of Ceremonies Aboriginal Relations Minister Michael de Jong.
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Yale First Nation Chief Robert Hope and Premier Gordon Campbell hold a framed photo of the Frozen Lakes gifted to the Premier by Yale First Nation.
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Premier Gordon Campbell speaks in the Legislative library at an event to commemorate the signing of an understanding between Yale First Nation and the Province that signifying the completion of negotiations toward a Final Agreement between the First Nation and B.C.
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Aboriginal Affairs Minister Michael de Jong and Yale First Nation Chief Robert Hope speak to one of Chief Hope's grandchildren prior to an event in the Legislative library marking the completion of negotiations between Yale First Nation and the Province toward a Final Agreement.
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Yale First Nation Chief Robert Hope speaks to guests at an event to mark the signing of an understanding between Yale First Nation and the Province indicating the completion of negotiations toward a Final Agreement. The First Nation must still complete negotiations with Canada. Seated are Elder Elmer George of Songhees First Nation and Aboriginal Relations Minister Michael de Jong, who acted as Master of Ceremonies at the event.
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FIRST-EVER INCREMENTAL TREATY AGREEMENT REACHED - November 13, 2008
Members of the Tla-o-qui-aht First Nations dance in front of the crowd to open the incremental treaty signing event. [News release] [Video]
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Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation Minister Michael de Jong (left) takes part in the signing of an unprecedented incremental treaty agreement between the Province and the Tla-o-qui-aht First Nations. Joining Minister de Jong is Tyee Hawilth Wickininnish – George Frank.
The incremental treaty agreement between Tla-o-qui-aht First Nations and B.C. is the first signed between the Province and a First Nation.
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Minister Michael de Jong addresses the crowd during the incremental treaty agreement event. The agreement is a four year agreement which provides approximately 63 hectares of land and capacity building and communications funding totalling $600,000 to Tla-o-qui-aht First Nations. These benefits are considered an advance by B.C. of a portion of the provincial share of a future treaty settlement package.
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(Left-Right)
Minister Michael de Jong, Premier Gordon Campbell, Co-Chief Negotiator Elmer Frank and Chief Francis Frank of the Tla-qui-aht First Nations shake hands after signing the incremental treaty agreement.
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AGREEMENTS BRING CLOSURE TO HISTORIC DISPUTES – November 4, 2008
Minister Michael de Jong addresses the crowd to acknowledge the
settlement of the last of B.C.'s cut-off claims disputes. The agreements
bring to a close a difficult chapter in B.C.'s early history dating to
the McKenna-McBride commission of 1912-1916.
[News release]
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Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation Minister Michael de Jong (left) presents a plaque to Chief Harold Leighton (centre) of the Metlakatla Band and former Chief of the Seton Lake Indian Band, Gary John (right), to recognize the resolution of all twenty two First Nations cut-off claims in British Columbia.
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First Nations, Canada, and British Columbia began negotiations over the cut-off lands in the 1970s. Agreements with the Seton Lake Indian Band, Gitwangak Band Council, Metlakatla Band and Lax Kw'alaams Indian Band, bring closure to a difficult period in B.C.'s history.
(L-R) Gordon Hogg, Minister of State for Mining; Lynda Price, Chief of Ulkatcho First Nation; former Chief of Songhees Nation, Gary Albany; Chief Harold Leighton, Metlakatla Band; Minister Michael de Jong, Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation; and former Chief of the Seton Lake Indian Band, Gary John, celebrate the conclusion of B.C.’s cut-off claims.
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MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING WITH TSAWWASSEN FIRST NATION – October 24,
2008
Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation Minister Michael de Jong (centre) joins Delta Mayor Lois Jackson (left) and Tsawwassen First Nation (TFN) Chief Kim Baird (right) to recognize the achievement of a memorandum of understanding between the TFN and Corporation of Delta that will address servicing of TFN's treaty settlement lands.
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Michael de Jong, Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation Minister (left), joins Tsawwassen First Nation (TFN) Chief Kim Baird (right) and Delta Mayor Lois Jackson (centre) to witness the formal signing of a memorandum of understanding between Delta and TFN. The MOU provides a framework to cover agreements related to services such as policing, fire and water on Tsawwassen's treaty settlement lands.
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FIRST NATIONS, B.C. BUILD NEW RESOURCE PARTNERSHIPS – October 2,
2008
New agreements signed by the Province and Blueberry River First Nations
(BRFN) provide economic benefits and a critical First Nations voice in land and resource decision-making in the Peace River area.
[News release]
(Left-Right) Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation Minister Michael de Jong, with Minister Richard Neufeld, Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources, Blueberry First Nation Councillor Marvin Yahey and Blueberry First Nation Chief Norman Yahey.
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Minister de Jong, Councillor Marvin Yahey and Chief Norman Yahey sign agreement.
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Minister de Jong and Chief Norman Yahey shake hands after signing the agreement. A final agreement affirms the establishment of new and ongoing relationships between Blueberry River First Nations and the Province, uniting three new resource management agreements on parks, wildlife and Crown lands, together with four resource agreements negotiated in 2007 and a major Economic Benefits Agreement concluded in 2006.
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PROVINCE AND UBCM RENEW COMMITMENT TO FIRST NATIONS – September 22, 2008
(Left-Right) Minister de Jong signs a memorandum of understanding with Susan Gimse, UBCM President and Director of Squamish-Lillooet Regional District, and Director Terry Raymond, Chair of UBCM First Nations Relations Committee.
The MOU reflects the development of the relationship between the Province and the UBCM in response to the evolution of the treaty process and progress made since the New Relationship was established in 2005. [News release]
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B.C. HELPS ABORIGINAL LEADERS COMMIT TO SPORTS LEGACY – August 2, 2008
Saanich – The 2008 Leaders Gathering was an unprecedented assembly of First Nations and Métis leaders from around B.C. who met to discuss a provincial strategy that responds to a call by Aboriginal youth for improving health and lifestyles through sport, recreation and physical activity. The Province provided $300,000 to support the gathering. [News release]
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(L-R) Minister de Jong congratulates Tresley Tourond-Bouvier, Métis Nation B.C. youth representative, and Ken Watts, B.C. Assembly of First Nations youth representative, who presented a declaration on Aboriginal youth sport and recreation to Aboriginal leaders and governments at the 2008 Leaders Gathering.
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(L-R) Minister de Jong (centre left) performs a traditional drumming song with Ulkatcho Chief Lynda Price, Assembly of First Nations regional Chief
(A-in-chut) Shawn Atleo, and Hupacasath Chief Judith Sayers (Kekinusuqs) at the 2008 Leaders Gathering on Aboriginal sport, recreation and physical activity.
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Participants at the 2008 Leadership Gathering sign a commemorative drum to signify their commitment to a strategy supporting the improvement of health outcomes for Aboriginal youth through sport, recreation and physical activity.
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Traditional dancers perform as part of a commitment ceremony at the 2008 Leaders Gathering where more than 110 First Nation Chiefs, Métis leaders, Assembly of First Nations National Chief Phil Fontaine, as well as Aboriginal youth representatives agreed to a strategy on sport, recreation and physical activity.
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MINISTER'S WEST COAST TOUR - July 21-27, 2008
Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation Minister Michael de Jong and members of the Ucluelet First Nation, Toquaht First Nation, Uchucklesaht Tribe and Ka:'yu:'k't'h'/Che:k'tles7et'h First Nations participated in two community celebrations to sign the Maa-nulth Final Agreement during the week of July 21-27. Minister de Jong also toured treaty lands and spoke with Chiefs and representatives from each First Nation, experiencing their lifestyle along the West Coast.
Minister de Jong speaks to the Tofino and Ucluelet Mayor and Council, Tofino Business Associations, Tourism Tofino and local First Nations groups.
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Minister de Jong participates in a helicopter tour of the Uchucklesaht Tribe Community and the Henderson Lake Hatchery/Lodge by Chief Charlie Cootes.
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Minister de Jong receives a gift from Tla-o-qui-aht after presenting a $4000 cheque to Tla-o-qui-aht Chief Councillor Francis Frank to assist in Tla-o-qui-aht 's continued work to develop youth programs.
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Minister de Jong enjoys a tour of lands in the traditional territory of the Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation.
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Minister de Jong receives a tour of Ucluelet treaty settlement lands by Ucluelet First Nation Chief Vi Mundy and other members of the Ucluelet First Nation.
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Minister of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation Michael de Jong joins Maa-nulth First Nations for a special signing ceremony in Itatsoo on July 22, 2008.
Front Row L to R: Chief Bert Mack (Toquaht Nation), Minister de Jong, Chief Charlie Cootes (Uchucklesaht), Chief Vi Mundy (Ucluelet First Nation), Wilson Jack (Ucluelet First Nation).
Back Row L to R: Anne Morgan (Toquaht Nation), Mark Lofthouse (Ministry of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation), Barb Touchie & Tyson Touchie (Ucluelet First Nation).
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Minister de Jong presents a gift to Maa-nulth First Nations during the signing ceremony. Click here for full-size photo |
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Minister de Jong participates in a tour of the Toquaht Nation treaty settlement lands by Chief Bert Mack. Left side: Nuu-chul-nulth tribal Council president Tom Mexis Happynook.
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Minister Michael de Jong presents Toquaht Chief Bert Mack (right) and Anne Morgan (left) with a $5000 grant to assist in developing a Toquaht cultural and language program.
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Minister de Jong receives a tour of a brand school in Hesquiaht called Huux tiq sitl huu witl (A place of Learning). The tour is provided by Cecil Sabbas, School Program Co-ordinator.
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Minister de Jong participates in traditional drumming with members of the Hesquiaht First Nation.
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Minister de Jong recieves a traditional welcome to Kyuquot by Ka:'yu:'k't'h'/Che:k'tles7et'h' First Nations Chief Tessie Smith along with elders and members of the Ka:'yu:'k't'h'/Che:k'tles7et'h' First Nations.
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Minister de Jong signs the Maa-nulth First Nations Final Agreement in Kyuquot with Ka:'yu:'k't'h'/Che:k'tles7et'h' Chief Tessie Smith and other members of the Ka:'yu:'k't'h'/Che:k'tles7et'h' First Nations.
From Left to Right: Chief Charlie Cootes, Anne Morgan, Chief Vi Mundy, Chief Tessie Smith, Minister Michael de Jong and Peter Hanson.
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JOURNEY STRENGTHENS RELATIONSHIP WITH ABORIGINAL YOUTH – June 30, 2008
B.C. Minister of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation Michael de Jong (centre) paddles with Aboriginal youth and police officers of the canoe team 'Dmitri' as part of the 2008 Pulling Together canoe journey. The annual eight-day canoe journey from Hope to Gibsons strengthens relations between police, Aboriginal youth and communities. The Province provided $30,000 towards the event and the development of a documentary examining the journey. [News release]
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Michael de Jong, B.C. Minister of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation (second from right), presents funding cheques worth $30,000 to representatives from the Pulling Together Canoe Society and Ride with the Tides Productions (L to R) retired Abbotsford Police Department Inspector John Davidson, Justin Macgregor (Ride with the Tides Productions), Nicole Jones of the Okanagan Nation and retired RCMP staff Sergeant Ed Hill. Half of the funding helped support the annual Pulling Together canoe journey which strengthens relations between Aboriginal youth, communities and police officers; the other half supported the production of a documentary on the journey.
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Musqueam Indian Band Chief Ernest Campbell (left) greets Michael de Jong, B.C. Minister of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation (right) after he arrived on Musqueam territory with members of the canoe team 'Dmitri', paddling as part of the 2008 Pulling Together canoe journey. Since 2001, Pulling Together has fostered relationships between Aboriginal youth and police officers through a multi-day canoe journey. The Province provided $30,000 towards the event and the production of a documentary.
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HISTORIC FIRST NATIONS HOUSING AGREEMENT SIGNED – May 21, 2008
Minister of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation Michael de Jong signs a Memorandum of Understanding on Housing for First Nations. The Government of Canada, Province of B.C. and First Nations Leadership Council signed the historic agreement on May 21, 2008, agreeing to work together to develop a comprehensive approach to improve housing for First Nations communities, individuals and families both on and off reserve.
From Left: Chief Lynda Price, Minister of Indian Affairs Chuck Strahl, Minister of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation Michael de Jong, Grand Chief Stewart Phillip, Grand Chief Ed John, Chief Judith Sayers and Regional Chief Shawn Atleo (standing). [News release]
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Minster de Jong shows an example of the poor housing conditions found in some First Nations homes. A committee representing all three parties of the MOU will work in partnership to overcome barriers and to address the housing gap between First Nations people and other British Columbians.
From Left: Grand Chief Stewart Phillip, Chief Judith Sayers, Chief Shawn Atleo (background), Minister Michael de Jong (speaking).
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THE COWICHAN 2008 SPIRIT POLE TOUR VISITS SUMAS COMMUNITY HALL – May 16,
2008
From Left: John Smith, Councillor; Christopher Wong, Sumas First Nation; Ray Silver Sr., Sumas First Nation; Imelda Silver, Sumas First Nation; Michael de Jong, Minister of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation; George Ferguson, Abbotsford Mayor; Randy Hawes, MLA Maple Ridge-Mission; and John van Dongen, Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General and Minister of State for Intergovernmental Relations.
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Minister Michael de Jong carves into the Cowichan 2008 Spirit Pole under the guidance of master carver Carey Newman (left).
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Minister de Jong participates in a lacrosse game during his visit to the Spirit Pole’s tour in Sumas. Touring with the Spirit Pole, The Aboriginal Sports Hall of Fame displayed a tribute to the 1936 Championship North Shore Indians Lacrosse Team.
For more information about BC150 and The Cowichan 2008 Spirit Pole, click here.
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HOSTING A TRADITIONAL POTLATCH – May 13, 2008
Victoria – Chief Frank Nelson from the Musgamagw Tsawataineuk (left) stands with members of the Ministry of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation's Aboriginal Relations Committee (ARC) which organized a ""Hosting a Traditional Potlatch"" educational event for Ministry staff. Chief Frank Nelson hosted the festivities at Wawadit'la Mungo Martin Big House and educated guests with information about different potlatches, protocols, songs, and dances. Chief Nelson also talked about traditional kinship relationships and explained how hereditary rights, privileges and title are handed down.
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A ceremonial dance is performed for the audience in Wawadit'la Mungo Martin Big House.
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Ministry of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation staff circle around a fire in Mungo Martin Big House and take part in a celebratory fun-dance.
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B.C. HELPS ABORIGINAL HOCKEY PLAYERS REACH NATIONAL ICE – May 5, 2008
Richmond – Minister of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation Minister Michael de Jong greets hockey players from Aboriginal Team BC at Vancouver International Airport as team members return from the National Aboriginal Hockey Championships in Ontario. The Province provided $10,000 to the Aboriginal Sports and Recreation Association of B.C. to help provide transportation for the players. The women's squad won a bronze medal at the event. [News release]
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RENEWED RELATIONSHIP BENEFITS CLAYOQUOT SOUND – May 2, 2008
From Left: Minister of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation Michael de Jong, Central Region Chiefs co–chair Elmer Frank, Hesquiaht Nation Chief Joseph Tom Jr., Toquaht Nation Chief Bert Mack, and Simon Tom of the Tla–o–qui–aht Nation celebrate the renewal of an interim measures extension agreement that promotes collaborative management of Clayoquot Sound on Vancouver Island. [News release] [Video]
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Chief Councillor Violet Mundy delivers remarks on behalf of the Ucluelet First Nation, one of five First Nations involved in the Clayoquot Sound IMEA. On stage, the Minister of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation Minister Michael de Jong (center) joins a large congregation of Chiefs, Hereditary Chiefs, representatives, Chief Negotiators and Councillors involved in the development of the agreement.
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On the Esquimalt Nation waterfront, Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation Minister Michael de Jong is asked by visiting Clayoquot Sound area First Nations to participate in a traditional drumming circle, a presentation in celebration of the signing of the 2008 Interim Measures Extension Agreement (IMEA).
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$450,000 SUPPORTS IMPROVED RELATIONS WITH MÉTIS – April 24
Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation Minister Michael de Jong (left), with Métis Nation BC (MNBC) President Bruce Dumont (centre) and CEO Keith Henry (right), announced the Province is providing a grant of $450,000 to MNBC. The grant will help improve health, housing education and economic development opportunities for the Métis people around B.C.
[News release]
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Bruce Dumont, President of Métis Nation BC, presents Minister Michael de Jong with the Métis Sash, the cultural icon for Métis citizens. The Order of the Sash is a distinct award provided by Métis leadership to honor important work by an individual. Minister de Jong is one of only five recipients of the Order of the Sash in British Columbia.
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Minister Michael de Jong applauds Madelaine McCallum, Youth Engagement Officer and professional Métis jigger for the MNBC.
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Minister Michael de Jong with MNBC President Bruce Dumont following the Order of the Sash ceremony.
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AGREEMENT PROVIDES BENEFITS, IMPROVED CO-OPERATION – March 18
Council of Western Treaty 8 Chiefs and Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation Minister Michael de Jong celebrate the signing of an Economic Benefit Agreement March 18, 2008 in Fort St. John.
From left to right: Chief Roland Willson (West Moberly First Nations and Vice-Tribal Chief, Council of Western Treaty 8 Chiefs), Minister Michael de Jong, Chief Liza Wolf (Prophet River First Nation), Chief Liz Logan (Fort Nelson First Nation and Tribal Chief, Council of Western Treaty 8 Chiefs), Chief Norman Davis (Doig River First Nation). [News release]
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TRANSITION HOUSE FOR YOUNG ABORIGINAL WOMEN OPENS – March 17
Official ribbon cutting ceremony for the Spirit Bear Center in Abbotsford: The first project to open under the Province's new Aboriginal Housing Initiative.
From Left: Jeannie, Peardonville House client; Angela Marshall, Alcohol and Drug Counsellor, Spirit Bear Center; Councillor John Smith, City of Abbotsford; Lester Ned, Grand Chief, Sto:lo Tribal Council; Ed Fast, MP for Abbotsford; Hon. Tom Christensen, Minister of Children and Family Development; Lynn Ned, Director/Founder, Spirit Bear Center Society; Hon. Rich Coleman, Minister responsible for Housing; Hon. Michael de Jong, MLA for Abbotsford-Mount Lehman and Minister of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation; Hon. John van Dongen, MLA for Abbotsford-Clayburn; Mayor of Abbotsford George Ferguson; and Gordon Gong, CEO, Aboriginal Housing Management Association. [News release]
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Official AHI print presentation at the opening of Spirit Bear Center in Abbotsford.
From Left: Hon. Rich Coleman, Minister responsible for Housing; Hon. John van Dongen, MLA for Abbotsford-Clayburn; Lynn Ned, Director/Founder, Spirit Bear Center Society; Hon. Tom Christensen, Minister of Children and Family Development; and Hon. Michael de Jong, MLA for Abbotsford-Mount Lehman and Minister of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation.
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Close up of dignitaries with drums at Spirit Bear Center opening.
From Left: Ed Fast, MP for Abbotsford; Hon. Michael de Jong, MLA for Abbotsford-Mount Lehman and Minister of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation; Hon. Rich Coleman, Minister responsible for Housing; Hon.
John van Dongen, MLA for Abbotsford-Clayburn; Mayor of Abbotsford George Ferguson; and Gordon Gong, CEO, Aboriginal Housing Management Association.
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$3 MILLION SUPPORTS UNIQUE WELLNESS VILLAGE – March 14, 2008
Premier Gordon Campbell, Minister de Jong, Minister Les, Minister van Dongen and Minister Penner join Chief Frank Malloway and members of the Ch-ihl-kway-uhk Tribe Society at the official funding ceremony for the Stehiyáq Healing and Wellness Village. [News release] [Video]
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Premier Gordon Campbell and Minister de Jong walk with Chief Frank Malloway and members of the Ch-ihl-kway-uhk Tribe Society at the future site of the Stehiyáq Healing and Wellness Village.
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Minister Michael de Jong addresses the crowd during the official funding ceremony. Provincial funding will be used to renovate existing buildings at a former youth correctional facility at Centre Creek. The lands at Centre Creek will be transferred by the Province to the Tribe Society for the village.
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RECONCILIATION, SETTLEMENT AND BENEFITS AGREEMENT PROVIDES NEW ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITIES FOR THE MUSQUEAM INDIAN BAND – March 11, 2008
Michael de Jong (right), Minister of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation, applauds Musqueam Indian Band Chief Ernest Campbell (left) as he holds a declaration celebrating the Musqueam Reconciliation, Settlement and Benefits Agreement. The agreement provides new economic opportunities for the Musqueam people and resolves many years of outstanding litigation. [News release] [Video]
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Minister de Jong (left) shakes hands with Musqueam Indian Band Chief Ernest Campbell (right) after signing landmark Reconciliation, Settlement and Benefits Agreement.
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NEW PROVINCIAL REPRESENTATIVE APPOINTED TO THE BC TREATY COMMISSION – February 28, 2008
Minister of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation Michael de Jong (right) congratulates Dave Haggard (left, with wife Ellen Haggard) on his appointment as the provincial representative to the BC Treaty Commission. [News release]
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GROUND BREAKS ON CANADA'S 1ST ABORIGINAL SPORT GALLERY – February 15, 2008
Minister de Jong joined project partners and athletes at the BC Sports Hall of Fame and Museum to unveil the first artifact for Canada's first Aboriginal Sport Gallery and touring exhibit, the feather headdress of world-champion wrestler and Tsartlip hereditary chief Jean Baptiste Paul, known as Chief Thunderbird. The Province announced it will contribute $75,000 towards the Aboriginal Sport Gallery and touring exhibit.
[News release]
Minister Michael de Jong with (clockwise from left): Richard Peter, wheelchair basketball; Jason Terauchi-Loutitt, marathon; Lara Mussell, Ultimate; Georgina Wheatcroft, curling; Naomi Walser, lacrosse; Virginia Johnston, snowboarding; and Chief Ian Campbell, Squamish Nation.
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Minister Michael de Jong and the Aboriginal Sport Gallery partners gather around the headdress of the late Chief Jean Baptiste Paul, world champion wrestler known as Chief Thunderbird, circa 1940. From left: Sue Griffin, BC Sports Hall of Fame; Alex Nelson, Aboriginal Sport and Recreation Association of B.C. ; Brian Dolsen, 2010 Legacies Now; Georgina Wheatcroft, Rona; Gary Youngman, VANOC; Chief Ian Campbell, Squamish Nation and Four Host First Nations.
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Minister Michael de Jong presents an ActNow shirt to Jason Terauchi-Loutitt, marathon runner and member of Canada's mountain running team, at the BC Sports Hall of Fame.
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SUSTAINABLE LAND–USE AGREEMENT REACHED FOR HAIDA GWAII – December 12, 2007
Minister of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation Michael de Jong attends the signing of the Haida Gwaii land-use agreement between the Province and Guujaaw, President of the Council of the Haida Nation.
[News release]
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TSAWWASSEN TREATY SIGNED IN OTTAWA – December 6, 2007
Minister or Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation Michael de Jong (right) Chief of the Tsawwassen First Nation Kim Baird (centre) and federal Minister of Indian Affairs Chuck Strahl (left) signed the final agreement in Ottawa on December 6, 2007. The legislation was then introduced in the federal House of Commons and given first reading.
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FIRST NATIONS STUDENTS BENEFIT FROM HISTORIC AGREEMENT – FIRST NATIONS EDUCATION STEERING COMMITTE – November 22, 2007
The Province introduced historic legislation recognizing First Nations'
jurisdiction over education on First Nations land in British Columbia. The Province of B.C., the First Nations Education Steering Committee and Canada signed the Education Jurisdiction Framework Agreement in July 2006.
Through this agreement, and subsequent federal enabling legislation, Canada has recognized First Nations' power to make laws over education on their own lands. B.C.'s legislation formally recognizes that right and enables boards of education and independent schools to enter into education agreements with participating First Nations.
[News release] [Backgrounder]
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Minister of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation Michael de Jong.
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TREATY BUILDS FUTURE FOR FIVE FIRST NATIONS – November 21, 2007
Premier Gordon Campbell addresses a crowd of assembled Maa-nulth First Nations members, supporters, and media in the second floor rotunda of the BC Legislature.
[News release] [Backgrounder] [Video]
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Premier Gordon Campbell greets Maa-nulth First Nations members at the steps of the Provincial Legislature on November 21.
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Premier Gordon Campbell greets Toquaht Nation Hereditary Chief Bert Mack at the Provincial Legislature.
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Huu-ay-aht Chief Robert Dennis, Premier Gordon Campbell, and Minister of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation Michael de Jong.
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Left to Right: Premier Gordon Campbell, Toquaht First Nation Chief Bert Mack, Minister of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation Michael de Jong, Ucluelet First Nation Chief Vi Mundy, Uchucklesaht Tribe Chief Charlie Cootes, Huu-ay-aht Chief Robert Dennis, Senator Gerry St. Germain, and Ka:'yu:'k't'h'/Che:k'tles7et'h First Nations Chief Therese Smith. The canoe, carved by Nuu-chah-nulth master carver Joe Martin, was presented to the Maa-nulth First Nations on behalf of the people of British Columbia.
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Toquaht Nation Chief Bert Mack; Premier Gordon Campbell, Ka:'yu:'k't'h'/Che:k'tles7et'h First Nations Chief Therese Smith, Huu-ay-aht Chief Robert Dennis, Uchucklesaht Tribe Chief Charlie Cootes, Ucluelet Chief Vi Mundy, Senator Gerry St. Germain, and
Minister Michael de Jong.
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LASTING AGREEMENT ACHIEVED ON RAYLEIGH LANDS – November 13, 2007
The Province, Kamloops Indian Band and City of Kamloops announced an accommodation agreement regarding ownership of the former Rayleigh Correctional Camp property that will revitalize the land, expand recreational space and provide economic and social benefits. Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation Minister Michael de Jong (centre) presented baseball bats to City of Kamloops Mayor Terry Lake (right) and Kamloops Indian Band Chief Shane Gottfriedson (left) to recognize the future use of part of the site as a new softball facility.
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Minister of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation Michael de Jong takes an opportunity to explain the lands within the proposed accommodation agreement. The City of Kamloops would acquire 112 hectares of the 132-hectare Rayleigh property from the Province for $240,000. The Kamloops Indian Band (KIB) would acquire the balance of the lands, about 20 hectares. KIB will also receive about 14-hectares of a separate Crown-owned parcel of land located across the North Thompson River.
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FIRST CITIZENS' FORUM 2007 – ABORIGINAL CULTURAL TOURISM – November 13, 2007
The Province and Aboriginal Tourism Association of British Columbia (ATBC) welcomed Aboriginal and tourism leaders from around the province to the 5th First Citizens’ Forum. The theme of this year’s Forum was Aboriginal Cultural Tourism. Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliations Minister Michael de Jong and Chief Sophie Pierre of the St. Mary’s Indian Band co-hosted the Forum.
Honoured were nine Aboriginal youth from the Aboriginal Youth Ambassadorship training program. The Youth assisted delegates throughout the day. Tourism, Sports, and Arts Minister Stan Hagen presented closing remarks. The Province expects Aboriginal Cultural Tourism revenues to grow from $35 million a year to as much as $50 million by 2010, presenting unprecedented opportunities for B.C.’s Aboriginal communities. [Video]
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RECONCILATION AGREEMENT REACHED WITH MUSQUEAM – November 9, 2007
Minister Michael de Jong, Premier Gordon Campbell, and Musqueam Band Indian Chief Ernie Campbell unveiled the details of a Reconciliation, Settlement and Benefits Agreement on November 9.
Once finalized, the agreement will provide full and final settlement of outstanding litigation related to the 2003 sale of the University of British Columbia Golf Course lands, the relocation of the River Rock casino to Richmond’s Bridgepoint lands, and remediation for environmental damage to the Celtic Lands in South Vancouver. [News release]
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LANDMARK TSAWWASSEN TREATY LEGISLATION INTRODUCED – October 15, 2007
Premier Gordon Campbell presented a carved yellow cedar door to the Tsawwassen First Nation, to celebrate introduction of legislation to ratify the Tsawwassen Final Agreement before the Legislature. The door was carved by Coast Salish artist Karl Morgan; it depicts two species important to British Columbians - the bald eagle and blue heron.
From left to right, member of the First Nations Leadership Council and First Nations Summit executive member Chief Judith Sayers, member of the First Nations Leadership Council and Regional Chief of the Assembly of First Nations Chief Shawn Atleo, Premier Gordon Campbell, Tsawwassen First Nation Chief Kim Baird, Minister of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation Michael de Jong and federal Minister of Indian and Northern Affairs Chuck Strahl. [News release] [Video]
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MÉTIS NATION BC (MNBC) ANNUAL GENERAL ASSEMBLY – September 21 – 23, 2007
Minister Michael de Jong spoke at the MNBC’s 10th anniversary AGM in Kelowna where he announced $10,000 from the Province to support the event.
Minister de Jong also announced that MNBC is the recipient of $600,000 to promote wellness and chronic disease prevention strategies and increasing physical activity options in communities. This funding is part of the $6-million ActNow BC Aboriginal program funding announced in March. [News release]
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ABORIGINAL INTERNS WELCOMED INTO BC PUBLIC SERVICE – September 13, 2007
Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation Minister Michael de Jong and Community Services Minister Ida Chong welcomed 15 Aboriginal Youth to their new roles in the BC Public Service as part of the Aboriginal Youth Internship Program.
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CELEBRATION OF HUU-AY-AHT TREATY RATIFICATION IN ANACLA – September 7, 2007
Premier Gordon Campbell and Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation Minister Michael de Jong visited Anacla on September 7 to celebrate the Huu-ay-aht First Nations approval of the Maa-nulth First Nations Final Agreement on July 28.
Premier Gordon Campbell joins a proud Elder at the Pawatts Centre.
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Ron Cantelon, MLA for Nanaimo-Parksville, Minister de Jong and Premier Campbell look on as Huu-ay-aht Chief Councillor Robert Dennis speaks.
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Premier Gordon Campbell tours the Anacla area with Chief Councillor Robert Dennis.
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Premier Gordon Campbell joins in childrens' activities at the Pawatts Centre in Anacla.
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PREMIER CONGRATULATES TSAWWASSEN FIRST NATION ON LANDMARK TREATY VOTE – July 26, 2007
Premier Gordon Campbell visited the Tsawwassen First Nation July 26 to congratulate Chief Kim Baird for her leadership following the landmark treaty vote in which the Tsawwassen First Nation ratified the Final Agreement. The 358 Coast Salish people who are members of the Tsawwassen Band occupy traditional lands on the Strait of Georgia near the Tsawwassen ferry terminal, about 25 km south of Vancouver. In the coming months, the Province will introduce Tsawwassen settlement legislation.
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PROVINCE AND SQUAMISH NATION REACH LAND-USE AGREEMENT – July 26, 2007
Minister of Agriculture and Lands Pat Bell, accompanied by Minister of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation Michael de Jong announced a strategic land-use agreement with the Squamish Nation in North Vancouver on July 26. The agreement protects cultural areas through the establishment of 11,000 hectares of new conservancies and creates a framework for collaborative and sustainable land management. It is an important component of the larger Sea-to-Sky Land and Resource Management Plan (LRMP).
From L to R: Minister of Agriculture and Lands Pat Bell, Squamish Chief Gibby Jacobs and Minister of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation Michael de |
