A milestone for the Lhtako Dene Nation and the Province of British Columbia came into effect today, January 6, 2026, as a community agreement with the Ministry of Children and Family Development officially begins. The agreement, signed on October 8, 2025, is designed to keep Lhtako Dene children and youth safely connected to their families, culture, and community while ensuring the Nation is actively involved in planning and decision-making for child and family services.
The agreement embeds Lhtako Dene teachings, traditions, and cultural values into service delivery, promoting continuity, safety, and wellbeing for children. Elders and community members emphasize the importance of passing on knowledge and cultural identity to future generations, saying that children are central to the Nation’s strength and future leadership.
The milestone is also a step toward Indigenous-led jurisdiction over child and family services in B.C., reflecting the Province’s commitment to reconciliation and support for self-determination. B.C. was the first province in Canada to recognize the inherent right of Indigenous Peoples to self-government, including the ability to provide child and family services under their own laws.
With this agreement, the Lhtako Dene Nation charts a path that honors their history, culture, language, and values, ensuring that children grow up strong, supported, and connected to their community.
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