FAQs
- Sharing information with members about the work of the Forum, and how that work advances the goal of developing a system of blended governance
- Sharing the 'Namgis Blended Governance 5-Year Workplan and the steps that will be taken to develop a permanent system of blended governance
- Getting consensus from members on the Journey to Gwayile’las – DRAFT Interim Protocol document, which will be in place until a permanent form of blended governance is developed and approved by members.
- Chief Victor Isaac
- George Alfred
- Chris Cook Jr
- Ivy Peers
- Robert Mountain
- Come to an in-person meeting on March 7 in Alert Bay, March 15 in Vancouver and March 17 in Victoria
- Join us at a virtual meeting on March 19, 20 and 22
- Take the Survey - Journey to Gwayile'las "Our Way" - 'Namgis Members Governance Survey | Engage 'Namgis
- Reach out to us with any feedback or questions
What is this engagement about?
This engagement is about getting feedback from 'Namgis members on the 'Namgis Blended Governance 5-Year Workplan and the Journey to Gwayile’las – DRAFT Interim Protocol that were developed by the 'Namgis Title and Rights Forum (the Forum). The engagement will focus on:
Who is leading the process?
Five members of the Forum are leading the process. Two elected representatives and two Hereditary Chiefs, with support from the elected Chief and engagement experts.
What does blended governance mean?
Blended systems of governance can take many forms. Many blended systems of other First Nations bring together traditional values, practices, roles and laws together with features of democratic governance. There are many different models other First Nations have developed that the Forum and members can look to for inspiration. However, they may not be a perfect fit for ‘Namgis culture and ways. The Forum will need input from members to create a system that will work for us.
Why is this important to ‘Namgis?
Creating a system of blended governance is one of the most important things that ‘Namgis will do in the next few years. It is important that ‘Namgis develops governance structures and processes that reflect our unique culture and traditions and make sense for governing a community in modern times.
Is this part of any treaty process?
No. ‘Namgis is no longer participating in the BC treaty process. We have not been negotiating a treaty since ‘Namgis members voted no to the Agreement in Principle.
In February 2018, ‘Namgis and Canada signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Government of Canada. The MOU is a commitment by ‘Namgis and Canada to negotiate one or more long-term comprehensive agreements. The MOU identifies several topics for negotiation including self-governance. This is the process that we’re working on here. The work of implementing the MOU is part of Canada’s “Recognition of Indigenous Rights and Self-Determination” (RIRSD) discussion table initiatives. ‘Namgis First Nation is one of over 300 communities coast to coast to coast participating in the process.
How do I get involved?
There are lots of ways to share your feedback on the Journey to Gwayile’las – Interim Protocol and the 'Namgis Blended Governance 5-Year Workplan!