Shíshálh Nation Chief Warren Paull says the Trudeau government’s recently announced “recognition and implementation of rights framework” is a watershed moment.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau made the commitment Feb. 14 to renew the relationship between Canada and Indigenous peoples in full partnership with them and through a national engagement process.
In a statement released shortly after the prime minister’s, the shíshálh Nation said, “Since the time of settler arrival to shíshálh swiya (world), the shíshálh Nation has been fighting for recognition of shíshálh jurisdiction over our swiya and self-determination of our Nation. Over the years we have made significant strides through the Sechelt Self-Government Act and other measures, but the progress has been far too slow.”
Paull said, “Our Nation has worked hard over the years to transform our relationship, often with unwilling partners. The new commitments of the federal and provincial governments finally creates the willingness and space for the great change that we need. This is a watershed moment.”
The statement goes on to say the shíshálh Nation welcomes the commitment to complete the framework before the next federal election. “We look forward to working with the federal and provincial governments to fundamentally shift our relationship based on the recognition and implementation of our rights… The Nation will act swiftly and diligently to ensure that the federal and provincial government’s keep these promises.”
