During the European colonization of British Columbia, few treaties were signed with local First Nations. Several Nations have entered into negotiations as part of the modern BC Treaty Commission process but the majority of the land of British Columbia remains unceded, that is territory that was not surrendered through a treaty or war.
By acknowledging the traditional and unceded territories on which we work and gather, Humanists can help affirm the dignity of indigenous peoples.
We acknowledge that the BC Humanist Association is based on unceded Coast Salish territory, including the lands belonging to the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish) and səl̓ilwətaɁɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) nations. And that our work in this province spans the territories of more than 200 First Nations, as well as Métis and Inuit communities.
We encourage local Humanist groups to learn more about the lands on which they meet and to acknowledge those territories before meeting.
We also recognize that this is only a first step toward reconciliation. We are continuing to review the Calls to Action of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission and the Calls to Justice of the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls.
Additional resources:
- Guide to Acknowledging First Peoples & Traditional Territory - Canadian Association of University Teachers
- British Columbia First Nations A-Z Listing - Government of British Columbia
- Pronunciation Guide to First Nations in British Columbia - Government of British Columbia [PDF]
- Unofficial traditional territories map - Native-Land.ca (banner credit)