The Prince Rupert Port Authority (PRPA) and the Kitsumkalum First Nation have entered into a Relationship Agreement that will govern how the two organizations work together for years to come.
The agreement was formally ratified last year, through a community-hosted signing ceremony on Kitsumkalum Laxyuup (territory). The agreement is founded on the shared principles of mutual understanding and openness, respect, trust, commitment, building the economy, and stewarding the environment.
The ceremony was attended by Kitsumkalum elected leadership, Simoogits and Sigidmhana’nax (hereditary leadership), and the Community at large.
“It was important that we started this new relationship off in a way that honoured our traditional customs – the signing was witnessed by our People and solidified by a feast” said Don Roberts, Chief of Kitsumkalum. “It was also important that the PRPA representatives, which included the Board of Directors and members of the executive team, were there to participate in, and witness, this important custom – this is how true understanding, trust, and mutual respect is built.”
For Kitsumkalum, the agreement marks an important step in advancing reconciliation and recognition of Kitsumkalum’s historic and continued presence on the coast: “The Port operates on lands and waters within Tsimshian Territory,” said Chief Roberts, “and this agreement will build on Kitsumkalum’s role in the economy of the Port and provide for collaborative strategic planning and management of the lands and resources in a way that recognizes and respects our respective rights, values, and interests.”
“This agreement symbolizes a significant milestone for PRPA and the partnership that we continue to build with Kitsumkalum,” said Shaun Stevenson, President and CEO, Prince Rupert Port Authority. “Our purpose at PRPA is to build a better Canada – and by extension, better communities – by growing trade. We work with Indigenous communities to ensure our joint values are reflected in a shared vision for the future.”
(PRPA photo)
