Historic Land Title Recognition for Haida People Off Canada's Coast

In a landmark decision, the government of British Columbia has officially recognized the Haida people's title to Haida Gwaii, a remote archipelago off Canada’s northwestern coast. Often referred to as the country's Galápagos due to its rich wildlife, Haida Gwaii has also been a target for loggers seeking its valuable forests.

This monumental recognition follows a protracted legal struggle spanning decades, highlighting Canada's painful colonial legacy. The law passed in May marks the first instance in Canadian history where a provincial or federal government has voluntarily acknowledged an Indigenous people's land claim.

The decision represents a significant shift in power, affirming the Haida's enduring connection to their ancestral lands and setting a precedent for Indigenous rights in Canada.