The Nathan E. Stewart sank, but Heiltsuk Nation is rising
Heiltsuk Nation suffered a violent disruption to their way of life, their economy, their history and identity, and their spiritual connection to the land. The spill contaminated key shellfish harvesting areas and critical habitat for the Northern Abalone.
A win for the Heiltsuk could toughen oil spill regulations from coast to coast to coast across Canada and set a precedent for Aboriginal title to the foreshore and seabed. It would strengthen Heiltsuk jurisdiction in the courts so they can manage their territory according to Heiltsuk laws.