21 March 2010
Posted in Self Determination - Alternative Governance Principles

Ratification requires explicit recognition that the concept of "Bands" and "Gitxsan" are not identical.

Ratification, properly done, may pose some complexities, and will require explicit recognition by both the federal and provincial governments that the eight local "Bands" and the concept of "Gitxsan" are not identical ideas. 

Some members of these Bands are non-Gitxsan. As well, some reserve residents are non-Indian.

Since ratification of a settlement should be done by the Gitxsan alone, as we are the title holders (as recognized in Delgamuukw) to the territories in question, and because the settlement will apply to us alone, some provision will be required for the non-Gitxsan currently under the authority of Band governments.

As the architect of the current Band structure, we feel it is appropriate that this be the responsibility of the federal government.

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