Jack and the nuchatlaht first nation are in a legal battle to win rights to the land on nootka island in british columbia, canada. the nuchatlaht are providing evidence of ancient red cedar trees, which can live up to 1,000 years, and jacob earnshaw, an archaeologist commissioned by the nuchatlaht, is giving evidence about the significance of “culturally modified trees” to prove their ownership. the crown has denied their claim, and the nuchatlaht are hoping the court will recognize their rights and titles to the land.
Case began in 1778 when the british explorer captain james cook landed on nootka island. the nuchatlaht first nation is using cook’s journal as evidence to prove their ownership, as well as arguments about having title to the land, continuity, sufficiency of occupation, and exclusivity of occupation. the provincial government has noted their respect for the right of indigenous peoples to choose how they settle legal issues.
Nuchatlaht first nation are hoping to heal the earth by planting the proper trees and start the healing process. jack woodward, the lawyer for the nuchatlaht, said he would have paid for the wood and water they took on board when they first started their case had he been present. speaker archie little explained that if they win, they would manage, enhance, and protect the land. mellissa jack said she is proud of their people for standing up for what’s theirs. the decision could have a significant impact on indigenous land claims in canada and the provincial government’s commitment to reconciliation.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-63980557?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=KARANGA
