The Tŝilhqot'in Nation has signed an agreement with the provincial and federal governments which will provide funding and support for the nation as it works towards reclaiming full jurisdiction over child and family services.
"Tŝilhqot’in problems require Tŝilhqot’in solutions," said Nits’ilʔin (Chief) Otis Guichon, the nation's tribal chief, in a press release dated May 9, 2025.
The fifth of its kind in B.C., the coordination agreement affirms the nation's jurisdiction over its child and family services, providing a path forward so the nation can build up its services for Tŝilhqot'in children and young adults.
"With intensive input from, and collaboration with our people, we have stood up our own Tŝilhqot’in law that puts our way of life, our values, and our children first," said Guichon. "We are hopeful that the next chapter in the lives of the Tŝilhqot’in people is one of safety, health and happiness with deep connections to our culture and teachings."
The Federal Act respecting First Nations, Inuit and Métis children, youth and families provides a framework for coordination agreements regarding First Nations' jurisdiction over child and family services, which, for most Indigenous children, are provided under provincial or territorial legislation where they reside. These agreements include funding arrangements; as part of the agreement the Tŝilhqot'in Nation, Canada will be providing $35.2 million and British Columbia will provide $766,222. Negotiations will continue for further funding to support the nation through the first phase of implementation.
“Every child deserves to grow up connected to their culture, language, and community," said Patty Hajdu, Canada's minister of Indigenous Services. "It's about recognizing that Indigenous communities have always known how to care for their children," Hajdu added, stating the agreement is not just about policies and programs.
B.C.'s minister of children and family development also noted the value in receiving care that aligns with one's culture.
"It leads to better outcomes for children, families, and communities," said Jodie Wickens.
As the nation builds capacity to fully exercise jurisdiction, it will be collaborating with Denisiqi Services Society and the province to continue providing protection services to all Tŝilhqot’in living on and off reserve.
The agreement comes just one month after the Tŝilhqot'in Nation enacted its children and families law, Tŝilhqot’in ʔEsqax Sutsel Jeniyax or Tŝilhqot’in children growing up in a good way. The law provides a foundation for exercising the nation's inherent jurisdiction through a new care model grounded in Tŝilhqot’in teachings and values.
