Historic Haida Nation agreement shows the world how to uphold Indigenous rights

By  Sheryl Lightfoot Writer The recent agreement reached between the Haida Nation and the government of British Columbia — called the Gaayhllxid/Gíihlagalgang “Rising Tide” Haida Title Lands Agreement — marks the first negotiated settlement in Canada to recognize an Indigenous nation’s jurisdiction over its traditional territory. The agreement has been welcomed by First Nations leaders in B.C. as a significant breakthrough in the recognition and protection of the inherent rights of Indigenous Peoples. The agreement also serves as an inspiration to Indigenous Peoples across Canada and around the world who share the common struggle to restore a viable and sustainable land base. Historic. Inspiring. But also long overdue, particularly in light of the clear direction provided by decades of rulings and recommendations by international human rights bodies. ‘Defining element of…

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