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Haida Nation’s Title Gains Federal Recognition in Landmark Agreement with Canada
The Haida Nation’s title to Haida Gwaii has long been recognized by their people—now for the first time, Canada has affirmed it through negotiation, setting a historic precedent for Indigenous rights and governance.
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The Haida Nation’s long journey to affirm their title to Haida Gwaii has reached a historic milestone. With the signing of the Chiix̲uujin | Chaaw K̲aawgaa “Big Tide (Low Water)” Haida Title Lands Agreement on February 17. The Government of Canada has, for the first time, recognized Aboriginal title through negotiation rather than litigation.
This agreement acknowledges Haida jurisdiction over the lands and foreshores of Haida Gwaii, reaffirming the Nation’s inherent rights. It follows over a century of Haida political mobilization and decades of legal battles, marking a significant step toward reconciliation and laying the foundation for a future built on partnership and peaceful coexistence.
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For over a century, the Haida Nation has fought to protect and govern Haida Gwaii according to their laws, governance, and stewardship values. The modern battle began in the 1980s, when Haida leaders and community members stood in resistance against industrial logging at Athlii Gwaii Lyell Island. That pivotal action led to a landmark legal challenge in 2002, when the Haida Nation formally sued Canada and British Columbia for a declaration of Aboriginal title over Haida Gwaii.
In April 2024, the Gaayhllxid | Gílagalgang “Rising Tide” Haida Title Lands Agreement was signed with British Columbia, affirming Haida title at the provincial level. The new Chiix̲uujin | Chaaw K̲aawgaa Agreement builds on that foundation by securing federal recognition.
“This recognition of title by Canada – which was initiated in 1913 by our past leaders – means that we can begin a new era of peaceful co-existence knowing that we can look after Haida Gwaii and ensure the well-being of all who call these shining islands home.” — Gaagwiis Jason Alsop, President of the Haida Nation
This agreement acknowledges that the transition to Haida governance must be orderly and collaborative, ensuring stability for all island residents. Over the next five years, the Haida Nation and the Government of Canada will work together to establish the legal, administrative, and governance structures needed for this transition.
The Haida Nation never ceded or surrendered Haida Gwaii. This agreement is an acknowledgement—not a transfer—of their inherent title, affirming their jurisdiction over land governance, stewardship, and economic development. It ensures that these responsibilities will be carried out in alignment with Haida values and traditions, as described in the Constitution of the Haida Nation.
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While Haida Gwaii is recognized as Haida land, the agreement also acknowledges that about 15 per cent of the archipelago is managed or used by the federal government, including Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve and Haida Heritage Site. An additional two per cent is privately owned or held by other parties. The agreement ensures that existing agreements and relationships with residents, businesses, and conservation partners will remain in place throughout the transition.
A key focus of this new governance model is restoration of Haida stewardship over the lands and waters of Haida Gwaii. The Chiix̲uujin | Chaaw K̲aawgaa Agreement marks a defining moment in the Haida Nation’s long journey to assert their title and rights. More than recognition, it is a step toward true reconciliation, where Haida governance, jurisdiction, and stewardship are upheld through meaningful collaboration and self-determination.
For more event images, visit the Council of the Haida Nation website.