Today is the final day of Gitxaała’s case at the BC Court of Appeal. And it’s B.C.’s turn to present their arguments to the three judges who will be deciding whether or not B.C. must take all measures necessary to align their laws with UNDRIP.
In B.C.’s written arguments submitted to the court, they stated “Canada—and within it, B.C.—has emerged as a world leader in UNDRIP implementation.” But, how can B.C. be a leader for implementing UNDRIP when they are arguing against Gitxaała Nation in court today? B.C. needs to be held accountable, not just by Indigenous Nations and the general public – they need to be held accountable to DRIPA under law.
Gitxaała is trying to protect vital ecosystems for present and future generations. We want to take this moment to introduce you to a vital member of Gitxaała’s territory, making parts of the territory a Key Biodiversity Area – the Surf Scoter!
The Surf Scoter is a sea duck who stops by Gitxaała’s territory on its way to the Arctic to mate. The Surf Scoter is an important part of the ecosystem, providing balance by eating marine snails, small crabs, herring spawn, and mollusks that would otherwise overtake the ecosystem. The Surf Scoter’s habitat needs are very specific, and their population in Gitxaała’s territory is in decline due to pollution and climate change. That’s why pollution of waterways – as seen by the Yellow Giant Gold Mine when they polluted a creek, pond, and wetland on Gitxaała’s territory in 2015 – is incredibly important to stop.
The future is bright for Indigenous rights, especially if Gitxaała Nation’s case is successful. Even if it isn’t, Nations like Gitxaała will continue to resist the status quo that is taking us on a path toward climate destruction. They will lead us in protecting the life we have now, revitalizing what has been lost, and bringing a bright future for all of us, together, alongside the Surf Scoter.
