The B.C. Federation of Labour welcomes the Supreme Court of Canada’s decision in Tsilhqot’in vs. British Columbia, which recognizes the Tsilhqot’in Nation holds Aboriginal title over the lands in their traditional territory.
“We congratulate the Tsihlqot’in Nation on this land mark ruling,” said Jim Sinclair President of the B.C. Federation of Labour. “This unanimous decision is a vital step in shaping a new path that is built on respect and integrity.”
This decision is the result of the Tsihlqot'in Nation declaring title to their land since before the Tsilhqot’in War of 1864, and over 25 years of legal proceedings in Canadian courts.
“Acknowledging land title in this manner is a necessary step forward in recognizing the rights of Aboriginal Peoples and bringing forward Reconciliation to Canada,” said Cheryl Gilbert, B.C. Federation of Labour Aboriginal Workers Representative. “I would like to acknowledge all of the work and dedication to all of the Tsilhqot'in Elders, both those who have passed on and who are here with us today, that brought their knowledge and dedication to this process".
The B.C. Federation of Labour would like to express solidarity with the dedicated First Nations leaders involved in this case, including the Tsilhqot’in National Government’s Tribal Chairman Chief Joe Alphonse and the six Tsilhqot’in First Nations Communities: Chief Roger William of the Xeni Gwet’in First Nation, Chief Percy Guichon of the Tsi Del Del Nation, Chief Frances Laceese of the Tl’esqox Nation, Chief Bernie Elkins of the ?Esdilagh Nation, Chief Russell Ross Myers of the Yunesit’in Government, and Chief Joe Alphonse of the Tl’Etinqox First Nation. As well as former Xeni Gwet’in Chief Marilyn Baptise, and historic Tsilhqot’in Chiefs Telloot, Klatassin, Tah-pitt and Chessus.
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