December 11th marks 28 years since the Supreme Court of Canada delivered the Delgamuukw decision, affirming the Gitxsan Nation’s rights and title to their traditional lands and reshaping the legal landscape for Indigenous governance in Canada.
Gitxsan Hereditary Chiefs say the ruling continues to guide how their Nation exercises authority over its territories—particularly as negotiations continue around the Prince Rupert Gas Transmission (PRGT) line, which crosses Gitxsan lands and is tied to the Ksi Lisims LNG project.
Hereditary Chief Simoogit Geel says the lessons of the case remain just as powerful today.
“It’s as important today as it was 28 years ago. It was a landmark decision that recognized our rights and title to our traditional territory. And it was based on our hereditary system… We’re just walking in their footsteps to try and make sure that we benefit from having our own rights and title and authority over our lax yip.”
To mark the anniversary, Gitxsan Chiefs whose lands intersect with the PRGT route have launched a new video campaign focused on hope, prosperity, and long-term responsibility.
They say the project represents a major opportunity—one they believe can coexist with strong environmental protection through Gitxsan-led monitoring and oversight.
The campaign emphasizes the need to balance protecting the land with creating opportunities that support community wellbeing and future generations.
listen to CFNR’s full intrview below
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