Nisga�a Settlement
For most Canadians, the idea of aboriginal self-government is not clear because negotiations over it are closed to the public. British Columbia's Nisga'a settlement happened in the summer of 1998. All three levels of government took part in the negotiations. This important event will guide the outcome of dozens of other talks affecting the future of Canada�s aboriginal people.

In practical terms, the Nisga'a deal calls for the transfer of 1,992-sq-km land and $165.7 million. In addition, this deal will give the 5,500-member Nisga'a band in northern BC self-governing powers over issues such as adoption, citizenship and land management. It will probably come to a vote in the Victoria legislature this spring and then in Parliament.

Approval is almost certain.

 

In groups, discuss the following questions:
  1. What is the idea of aboriginal self-government?
  2. When did the Nisga�s settlement happen?
  3. What did the Nisga�a people gain by this settlement?
  4. Why did this deal come to vote in the Victoria legislature as well as in Parliament?
  5. Why is this deal important to the Nisga�a people?
Adapted from The West Coast Lightning Rod
BY ANDREW PURVIS
http://cgi.pathfinder.com/time/magazine/articles/intl/0,3266,20932,00.html