Treaty

We are currently working towards a historic treaty with the Canadian and BC governments, which is a significant step in our long journey toward self-governance, land rights, and justice.

Our people entered the "modern day" Treaty Process in 1994, and we are steadily progressing through its six stages. Today, we’re in Stage 5, the "Negotiating an Agreement in Principle" phase. This stage is crucial, as it involves reaching major agreements that will form the foundation of our final treaty. With the Wei Wai Kum/Kwiakah Treaty Society dissolving in April 2024, we have taken the lead in these negotiations with Chief Steven Dick as our Chief Negotiator. Supported by our Band Manager and Assistant Negotiator, Frank Voelker, along with Amanda Dick and Tara Morrow as Assistant Treaty Coordinators, we are dedicated to establishing a treaty that reflects our Kwiakah values, vision, and rightful place on the land.

Throughout treaty discussions, we seek to address a deep historical injustice. Over a century ago, the Crown failed to allocate our people a residential reserve—a land base where our community could live, work, and thrive. Now, through the treaty process, we are pursuing additional land that will finally provide our people with a permanent home base, fulfilling a long overdue vision.

Through these negotiations, we seek more than just land. We seek recognition, respect, and a renewed relationship with the Canadian and BC governmentsone that will allow us to strengthen our community, protect our cultural heritage, and sustainably manage our territory for future generations.