06/08/2026
WE WERE A NATION BEFORE THERE WERE BORDERS
June is National Indigenous History Month.
It is a time to learn about the histories, cultures, languages, and contributions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples. It is also a reminder that Indigenous Peoples are not simply part of Canada's history as we are living Nations with vibrant cultures, governance systems, and responsibilities that continue today.
Long before British Columbia or Canada existed, Dakelh peoples governed our territories, cared for our lands and waters, and passed teachings from one generation to the next. Our Keyoh system, our families, our language, and our responsibilities to one another and the land remain the foundation of who we are.
Today, documents such as the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) and British Columbia's Declaration Act (DRIPA) recognize many of the rights our people have always known and exercised. At the same time, these rights are accompanied by responsibilities where we are responsible to care for our lands, uphold our teachings, strengthen our communities, and ensure future generations inherit a healthy and thriving Nation.
As reflected in Tl’azt’en Nation's Comprehensive Community Plan, our future is strongest when it is grounded in our culture, language, families, Keyoh, stewardship, and connection to the land. Nation-building is not only about remembering where we come from, but carrying those teachings forward in a good way.
This work continues today. On June 8, Chief and technical staff will be attending meetings with the First Nations Leadership Council and First Nations leaders from across British Columbia at Musqueam to discuss proposed changes to the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (DRIPA). These discussions are part of the ongoing work of protecting Indigenous rights, title, governance, and ensuring First Nations voices remain at the decision-making table.
Throughout June, we encourage members, friends, neighbours, and allies to take time to learn about Dakelh history, culture, governance, and contemporary life. Reconciliation is not a destination as it is a commitment to learning, understanding, respect, and action.
National Indigenous History Month is more than reflection. It is an opportunity to put reconciliation into practice, strengthen relationships, honour our responsibilities, and support a future where Indigenous peoples, cultures, languages, and laws continue to thrive.
