Timeline
The Nisg̱a’a Nation’s history is a saga of resilience, cultural vitality, and unwavering commitment to sovereignty in the face of formidable challenges. For millennia, the Nisg̱a’a have inhabited the rugged landscapes of the Nass River valley and its surrounding territories in what is now known as British Columbia, Canada. Our journey is marked by deep connections to the land, rich oral traditions, and a profound sense of community. From ancient times to the contemporary era, the Nisg̱a’a have navigated encounters with external forces, maintained their distinct cultural practices, and forged pathways towards self-determination.
1887
Nisg̱a’a Chiefs travel by water to Victoria to discuss the Nisg̱a’a Land Question; they are turned away on the steps of the legislature by Premier William Smithe.
1888
Aboriginal fishers are excluded from commercial fishing until 1923.
1890
First Nisg̱a’a Land Committee established.
1910
Prime Minister Laurier promises to settle the Land Question.
1913
Nisg̱a’a Land Committee submits its petition to the British Privy Council in London.
1924
Nisg̱a’a Nation allotted 76 square kilometres of reserve land.
1927
Ottawa prohibits Aboriginal people from organizing to discuss the Land Question.
1949
Nisg̱a’a Chief Frank Calder is elected to the B.C. legislature.
1951
Parliament repeals provisions of the Indian Act that outlawed the potlatch and prohibited land claims activities.
1955
Nisg̱a’a Land Committee is re-established as the Nisg̱a’a Tribal Council; Frank Calder is elected its first president.
1960
Aboriginal people are granted the right to vote in federal elections.1973
In the “Calder Decision,” the Supreme Court of Canada rules that the Nisg̱a’a had held Aboriginal title before settlers came, but the judges split evenly on whether Aboriginal title continued to exist.1976
Nisg̱a’a begin negotiating with Ottawa (B.C. government attends as an observer). The federal government adopts a “comprehensive land claims policy”; the Nisg̱a’a claim is the only one in B.C. started under this new policy.1982
Constitution of Canada recognizes and affirms existing Aboriginal rights.1989
Nisg̱a’a people begin managing their own healthcare system through the Nisg̱a’a Valley Health Authority.1990
British Columbia formally enters Nisg̱a’a negotiations.1991
A tripartite framework agreement is signed between the Nisg̱a’a Nation, Canada, and British Columbia.1992
Nisg̱a’a Fisheries is established to manage the resource in partnership with Canada.1993
Wilp Wilxo’oskwhl Nisg̱a’a (Nisg̱a’a House of Wisdom) is established to provide Nisg̱a’a -based post-secondary programs in Nisg̱a’a communities and select urban centres.1994
B.C. delegates authority to the Nisg̱a’a Nation for Child and Family Services.1996
On March 22, representatives of the Nisg̱a’a Tribal Council, Canada, and British Columbia sign the Nisg̱a’a Agreement in Principle, paving the way for a final agreement.1998
On August 4, the Nisg̱a’a Treaty is initialed in New Aiyansh, making news around the world. On November 7, the Nisg̱a’a Nation votes to ratify the Nisg̱a’a Final Agreement and adopt the Nisg̱a’a Constitution.
On November 30, the Nisg̱a’a Final Agreement (Bill 51) is introduced in first reading to the British Columbia legislature.
