British Columbia Treaty Commission

In 1992, Canada, British Columbia and the First Nation Summit signed the Treaty Commission Agreement for the creation of the British Columbia Treaty Commission (the “BCTC”). The BCTC’s

The Primary responsibility of the BCTC is to act as an “independent and impartial Keeper of the process” of the treaty negotiations in British Columbia. In order to do this the BCTC carries out three main duties

• Monitoring and facilitating treaty negotiations, including both individual negotiation tables and the Principal’s Process;
• Public education and information; and
• Administration of negotiation support funding based on criteria described by the Principals.

The BCTC’s role in public information and education on the treaty process has included the development of a number of informational tools, including its web site, brochure, annual reports and a media handbook. It’s two main objectives in this respect are to:

• Raise public awareness and understanding of the historical and legal reasons for treaty making and the Treaty Commission’s role in the BC treaty process; and
• Provide public information on the treaty process, the Treaty Commission and the status of negotiations at each table.

Education Initiatives of the BCTC

• Annual report
• Web site
• Public Presentations
• School Curriculum

Publications: Why Treaties? What's the deal with Treaties. and A lay Person's Guide to Delgamuukw

The BCTC supports the negotiation of modern treaties and the OTC facilitates discussion and promotes understanding of issues relating to historic treaties.

Website: http://www.bctreaty.net/