Joseph Gosnell represents a beacon of hope, wisdom and guidance for indigenous peoples around the globe. After serving as chief negotiator and helping his people to conclude a historic treaty with the governments of Canada and British Columbia, he helped to implement the treaty as president of the new Nisga'a Lisims Government. The agreement created a comprehensive model of self-government for indigenous peoples. Aboriginal groups from the Americas, Africa, Europe and the South Pacific came to Canada to learn how the Nisga'a Nation's experience could inform their own land claim efforts. In addition, he is sought after as a speaker at international conferences and continues to be an elder statesman within the Aboriginal community. This is a promotion within the Order.
Officer of the Order of Canada
Awarded on: 2000-11-15
Invested on: 2001-05-31
Pursuing the dreams of his ancestors, he has negotiated for the last twenty years on behalf of the Nisga'a Nation and was instrumental in bringing about the signing of the historic 1999 Nisga'a Treaty. His great determination, enormous patience and unwavering belief in the rights of his people culminated in this, their first modern land claim agreement with British Columbia and Canada. President of the Nisga'a Tribal Council and one of the most highly respected Aboriginal leaders in Canada, he has opened the door for discussion on resource management policy and self-governance for other First Nations.