The Nisga'a Treaty is only one of the many treaties facing some of the more than 200 bands in British Columbia. Snuneymuxw First Nation is mid-stream on its voyage through the treaty process.

Treaties between First Nations, British Columbia and Canada are a means to address issues related to the traditional rights of First Nations, as well as to establish a foundation for building a new relationship between First Nations and non-Aboriginal governments and people. Treaties will also provide greater certainty about the roles of Aboriginal people in self-determination and to increase the level of understanding of how people and governments can work together for the future development of native and non-native communities.

The Six Stage Treaty Process

Stage 1 - Statement of Intent
Stage 2 - Preparation for Negotiations
Stage 3 - Negotiation of a Framework Agreement
Stage 4 - Negotiation of an Agreement in Principle
Stage 5 - Negotiation to Finalize a Treaty
Stage 6 - Implementation of a Treaty

Snuneymuxw First Nation is now midway through Stage 4, negotiating an Agreement in Principle.

At the conclusion of this process the social and political structure of SFN will become clear.

In late 1998, the Nisga'a people took their treaty to the Legislative Assembly in Victoria for ratification.

Land and Territory

Self government

Economy

Social structure