Haida Nation mourns loss of CHN Elected Representative – April 2, 2024
Haida Nation mourns loss of CHN Elected Representative - April 2, 2024
It is with deep sadness that we share the news that Guuday Guud Dlaaya Vince Collison – a passionate advocate for the Haida Nation, dedicated Haida repatriation leader, proud Haida Watchman, and Elected CHN Representative of the Council of the Haida Nation – passed away on April 1, 2024. His departure to the next world is a huge loss to his family, friends, community and Nation as a whole. Vince will be greatly missed by all.
As many are aware, this week is also a significant week for the Nation with a Special House of Assembly scheduled for April 6, 2024 to vote on the draft Gaayhllxid/Gíihlagalgang Rising Tide Haida Title Lands Agreement in which the Province of BC recognizes Haida Aboriginal title to all of Haida Gwaii.
We do not do business lightly while our people are grieving. Our work must respect family wishes and protocols. In this way, we sat with Vince’s family to gently follow their lead on how to proceed this week.
Stithlda Frank Collison, Haida Hereditary Chief and Vince’s father, has asked that we continue to move forward with this work to honour Vince’s longstanding commitments to the Haida Nation and to advancing the recognition of Haida Title on Haida Gwaii.
With the family’s blessing, today, on April 2, 2024, motions were passed by the Council of the Haida Nation and the Hereditary Chiefs Council to approve the draft Gaayhllxid/Gíihlagalgang Rising Tide Haida Title Lands Agreement pursuant to Article 13, Section 5 of the Constitution of the Haida Nation.
We are mourning but also continue to be inspired by Vince’s passion, kindness, dedication and generosity of spirit. It was a privilege to know and work with Guuday Guud Dlaaya Vince Collison. He lifted the Nation to greater heights and will continue to guide us from beyond.
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