Bill S-16 Grants Haida Nation Governance Rights
- Bill S-16 received Royal Assent in Parliament.
- The legislation recognizes the Haida Nation's rights to governance and self-determination.
- This development marks a significant step for reconciliation and the Haida Nation's future collaboration with Canada.
On November 7, 2024, in Ottawa on unceded Algonquin territory, the Council of the Haida Nation and Canada's Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations celebrated the Royal Assent of Bill S-16. This legislation affirms the government's recognition of the Haida Nation's inherent rights to governance and self-determination. With this bill's passage, the Haida Nation is recognized as a government under federal law, marking a pivotal moment in advancing reconciliation efforts. Minister Gary Anandasangaree emphasized the importance of collaboration moving forward, highlighting the ongoing partnership between the Haida Nation and Canada. President Gaagwiis of the Haida Nation noted that this step is crucial for addressing the complex issues faced by Indigenous peoples and sets the stage for a stronger Nation-to-Nation relationship moving ahead.