Let’s dispel some myths about Mowachaht-Muchalaht First Nation’s (MMFN) legal case for Aboriginal title. Legal cases can seem convoluted and overly technical, especially for those of us who didn’t attend law school. Unfortunately, it can be easy to misunderstand or be misinformed, so we want to take a moment to clarify some aspects of MMFN’s case. Protecting healthy forests and supporting Indigenous-led litigation benefits us all.
Myth: MMFN is going after homeowners’ land.
Fact: MMFN’s title claim is directed solely at the Government of British Columbia. The case is not against private homeowners and does not seek to invalidate any fee simple property.*
*(Fee simple property means the full ownership of the land and any buildings on it. This includes the exclusive right to control, use, and transfer the property or particular rights by the owner within the confines of the law).
Myth: MMFN’s title claim doesn’t benefit landowners.
Fact: MMFN’s title claim aims to protect forests on their territory from unsustainable logging practices. Healthy forests help decrease the rise of land erosion, forest fires, and flooding. Everyone benefits from healthy forests.
Myth: MMFN’s claim will halt all forestry activity in the claim area and harm the regional economy.
Fact: MMFN’s title case seeks to gain control over forestry activity in its claim area and will result in a more equitable distribution of wealth flowing from that industry.
Fact: MMFN is advancing an Aboriginal title claim in pursuit of self-governance and land stewardship so they can protect their territory through sustainable forestry practices while combating climate change. The case will bring jurisdiction back to the people who know their land best while supporting the revitalization of their cultural practices, language, food supply, and local economy.
You can learn more about MMFN’s legal case here and donate to their legal challenge here.
