TFN Supports Treaty Ratification as a Pathway to Reconciliation
Press Release
May 13, 2026
Tsawwassen, B.C. – Tsawwassen First Nation (TFN) is reaffirming its strong support for the modern treaty process as a cornerstone of reconciliation, reducing title ambiguity, and fostering respectful government‑to‑government relationships.
As a modern treaty nation, TFN’s rights and authorities are set out in its Final Agreement, which provides long‑term stability and increased certainty for the Nation, neighbouring governments, and the broader region. TFN’s governance and jurisdiction remain grounded in its treaty and are not modified by ongoing provincial policy discussions or court decisions.
TFN acknowledges and respects the paths being taken by K’ómoks First Nation and Kitselas First Nation as they move through their treaty ratification processes. TFN supports these Nations’ efforts to advance self‑determination and recognizes that each community has its own unique needs, concerns, and priorities.
TFN recognizes that treaty processes can be complex and often involve overlapping territories. Which is why they rely on ongoing dialogue, patience, and good‑faith engagement between Nations. These conversations take time and are an expected part of advancing reconciliation.
“Treaties are not static documents; they are living agreements built on trust, respect, and long‑term relationships,” said sxʷamisaat Chief Laura Cassidy. “They help reduce uncertainty, clarify responsibilities, and provide a framework for Nations and governments to work together in a good way.”
TFN is currently undertaking a periodic review of its own treaty, a process that reflects the importance of continual dialogue and improvement within treaty relationships. TFN notes that prolonged delays or uncertainty in ratifying other treaties can slow progress, strain good‑faith working relationships, and impact the broader treaty landscape.
“Modern treaties create benefits for everyone involved,” said Twyla Smith, Director of Strategic Initiatives for Tsawwassen First Nation. “They reduce ambiguity around title and decision‑making and give Nations tools to improve the well-being of their peoples and region, while allowing Nations to continue important overlap discussions through established Nation‑to‑Nation processes.”
Tsawwassen First Nation believes that supporting treaty ratification and implementation, rather than holding treaties up, strengthens reconciliation, supports constructive working relationships, and reinforces respectful Nation‑to‑Nation engagement across British Columbia.
About Tsawwassen First Nation
Tsawwassen First Nation (TFN) is a modern treaty Nation located on the west coast of British Columbia, at the mouth of the Fraser River in what is now known as South Delta. TFN is a self-governing First Nation with its own Constitution, laws, and elected government, following the effective date of the Tsawwassen First Nation Final Agreement in 2009.
TFN is home to a growing, engaged community and plays an active role in regional economic development, environmental stewardship, and intergovernmental collaboration. As a treaty Nation, TFN exercises jurisdiction over its lands and governance while working closely with municipal, provincial, and federal partners.
For more information, please contact:
Callum Robinson
Manager of Communications and Engagement
604-690-9789
crobinson@tsawwassenfirstnation.com
ILR5
