Companion of the Order of Canada
- Awarded on: October 5, 2006
- Invested on: May 04, 2007
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.