The Government of Canada recently announced it has signed a “Rights Recognition Agreement” and related agreements with the Musqueam Indian Band. We understand that these agreements are intended to affirm Musqueam’s Aboriginal rights and title and outline approaches to areas such as land use, fisheries, and stewardship within their traditional territory.
We acknowledge this significant milestone and recognize the work that has gone into achieving it. Every Nation’s path is unique, and we respect the decisions communities make based on their own needs and priorities.
At our request, Canada provided us with the Agreements so that we may better understand their meaning and possible implications. Our analysis is ongoing.
Tsawwassen First Nation maintains strong and respectful relationships with our neighbours, including Musqueam. We share many values and remain committed to working together in a good way. At the same time, we have noted publicly available materials, including maps, that appear to depict areas overlapping with parts of Tsawwassen First Nation’s treaty lands at Brunswick Point.
As our review continues, we look forward to meeting with our neighbours and with our treaty partners to discuss how our respective approaches to reconciliation can complement one another. These conversations will take time, and we are committed to approaching them collaboratively.
Looking ahead, we expect the Crown to uphold its duty to consult and to conduct itself honourably in all matters affecting our rights and interests. Tsawwassen First Nation remains committed to protecting the rights of our members, including our right to fish in the Fraser River, as affirmed in our Treaty.
“We approach our relationships with neighbouring Nations with respect and care. At the same time, we have a clear responsibility to uphold and protect our Treaty rights, including our rights at Brunswick Point and in the Fraser River,” said Chief Laura Cassidy of Tsawwassen First Nation. “As we review Canada’s agreements with Musqueam, we are committed to open dialogue and to ensuring that reconciliation moves forward in a way that honours the rights and responsibilities of all Nations.”
We anticipate further work in the months ahead and look forward to participating constructively as we continue advancing reconciliation for the benefit of all.