Te'mexw Treaty Association facts for kids

The Te'mexw Treaty Association is a group that helps several First Nations in British Columbia talk with the government. They work on something called the BC Treaty Process. These First Nations are located near the northern part of the Strait of Georgia. The groups involved in the Te'mexw Treaty Association were also part of older agreements called the Douglas Treaties, which were signed way back in the 1850s.

What is the Te'mexw Treaty Association?

The Te'mexw Treaty Association helps its member First Nations discuss important topics like land, resources, and how they govern themselves. These discussions are called "Treaty negotiations." Think of it like a big conversation where everyone tries to agree on how to share and manage things fairly. The goal is to create new agreements, or treaties, that benefit everyone for the future.

Working Together: The BC Treaty Process

The BC Treaty Process is a special way for First Nations, the government of British Columbia, and the government of Canada to work together. It's a step-by-step plan to sort out land claims and rights that were never fully settled. The Te'mexw Treaty Association has made good progress in this process. They have reached Stage 5, which means they are very close to finishing their negotiations and signing a final agreement. This stage involves getting ready to sign a new, modern treaty.

What are Treaties?

Treaties are like important agreements or contracts between different groups of people. For First Nations, treaties often define their rights to land, resources, and self-governance. The Douglas Treaties were some of the first treaties signed in British Columbia. They were made between First Nations and the colonial government in the 1850s. The Te'mexw Treaty Association's work today builds on these historical agreements, aiming to create new ones that reflect modern times.

Who Belongs to Te'mexw?

The Te'mexw Treaty Association represents several First Nations. These groups are important parts of the history and culture of British Columbia. Here are the First Nations that are members of the association: