Reconciliation & Other Agreements

B.C. works in collaboration with Indigenous leaders, government agencies, industry, local government and the public to support reconciliation and related agreements.

Reconciliation and related agreements focus on closing socio-economic gaps that separate Indigenous people from other British Columbians, and building a province where all citizens can participate in a prosperous economy.

The provincial government has a number of key documents that guide the ongoing relationship with Indigenous peoples in B.C.:

Shared vision, guiding principles, goals and objectives

Concrete actions: transforming laws, policies, processes and structures

British Columbia – First Nations Proposed Commitment Document 2015

Métis Nation British Columbia

The Province and the Métis Nation British Columbia (MNBC) have signed a Letter of Intent to renew their shared commitment to strengthening their relationship and advancing reconciliation with Métis people in B.C. The Letter of Intent also commits government and MNBC to phasing out the Métis Nation Relationship Accord II once a new agreement is reached.

Social determinants of health

In March 2016, the provincial government and the First Nations Health Council (FNHC), signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on a collaborative approach to addressing the social determinants of health for First Nations peoples of BC Social determinants of health are the economic and social conditions that influence individual and group health status.

Reconciliation Agreements

The provincial government's relationship with First Nations in B.C. is based on respect, recognition and accommodation of Indigenous title and rights; respect for each others’ laws and responsibilities; and for the reconciliation of Indigenous and Crown titles and jurisdictions.

The Province has completed several agreements with First Nations in B.C. that create the opportunity for comprehensive and lasting reconciliation.

Memorandums of Understanding

MOUs create a more collaborative, coordinated and efficient approach to the management of land and natural resources; and develop new economic opportunities and initiatives that enable First Nations to make progress toward their socio-economic objectives.

Off-Reserve Indigenous Action Plan

The Off-Reserve Indigenous Action Plan (ORAAP) outlines the partnership and principles that will guide the work of both parties as they develop and implement the plan. The ORAAP includes a multi-stakeholder, community-driven approach focused on better education and job training, healthier family life, and strengthened cultures and traditions for off-reserve Indigenous people in B.C.

Cut-off Claims

On November 4, 2008, the Province, Canada and First Nations celebrated the settlement of the remaining four cut-off claims in British Columbia. Cut-off claims were the direct result of lands being removed from, or cut off of, Indian reserves in British Columbia in the early days of European settlement. 

Other Agreements