Photo Courtesy: Province of British Columbia, Flickr

By Veronica Beltran

Reconciliation

‘This is truly a historic day,’: Signing of Lake Babine Nation Foundation Agreement

Sep 18, 2020 | 11:21 AM

VICTORIA—”This is truly a historic day for all of us,” said Lake Babine Nation Chief, Gordon Alec in an announcement this morning (Sept.18).

Chief Alec announced a step towards reconciliation between First Nations, the Province and Canada with the signing of the Foundation Agreement that sets the foundation for a 20-year journey to implement and recognize Lake Babine Nation rights and title

“We sign this agreement today without sacrificing our rights or our titles.” —Chief Gordon Alec, Lake Babine Nation

The agreement sets an initial set of benefits of nearly $200 million with $43 million over five years for economic development and independence for the Nation, and 20,000 hectares transferred to Lake Babine worth $150 million.

The agreement provides a roadmap between how Lake Babine and both federal and provinical governments will work in collaboration to implement Lake-Babine self-governance, boost economic development, collaborate on major land and resource decisions and promote community health and well-being.

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“This day is for them because it is our job to create a better future.”—Chief Alec, Lake Babine Nation

Chief Alec mentioned how this day is really a mile-stone for the future generations, as it is the current generations job to build a better future.

The agreement will see an increase in Lake Babine Nation’s participation in the foresty sector, and funding will help support and strengthen social program delivery in areas such as children and family services, education and language, and justice programs.

Photo Courtesy: Province of British Columbia, Flickr.