Carrier Sekani First Nations and B.C. Province Sign New Agreement

A significant step towards reconciliation has taken place as the Province of British Columbia and seven Carrier Sekani First Nations have signed the Pathway Forward 3.0 Agreement. This new accord is part of a decade-long initiative aimed at enhancing reconciliation and fostering shared decision-making.

The recent signing involved the Carrier Sekani First Nation Society along with the First Nations of Nadleh Whut’en, Nak’azdli Whut’en, Saik’uz, Stellat’en, Takla, Tl’azt’en, and Ts’il Kaz Koh. This agreement marks the third major milestone in a process initiated in 2015, which has seen previous agreements in 2017 and 2019. These earlier accords laid the groundwork for government-to-government discussions, provided initial funding, and established collaboration methods for resource management between the Nations and the Province.

Framework for Future Collaboration

The Pathway Forward 2.0 agreement, signed in 2019 and amended in subsequent years, expanded the scope of reconciliation negotiations. The latest agreement, Pathway Forward 3.0, builds on this foundation by outlining plans for regional economic development. It seeks to connect local priorities with broader opportunities while emphasizing collaborative efforts in forestry and land stewardship.

According to the press release from the Province, the agreement also includes commitments to enhance community infrastructure, health and healing services, and cultural programs. These initiatives aim to revitalize Carrier Sekani languages and traditions, reflecting a long-term vision of self-determination and self-governance for the Carrier Sekani Nations.

Long-Term Vision and Future Engagement

The latest agreement indicates a commitment to ongoing collaboration with industry stakeholders, federal representatives, and local governments to foster an inclusive regional economy. As part of the ongoing efforts, the Carrier Sekani First Nation Society is currently in Stage 4 of the B.C. Treaty Process, where it is negotiating an agreement-in-principle with the Province and the federal government.

In addition to the Pathway Forward agreements, the Carrier Sekani First Nations have entered into multiple forestry revenue-sharing and environmental stewardship agreements over the past decade. These initiatives are critical in shaping a sustainable future for the Nations while ensuring their voices and priorities are integral to regional development.