Statement
August 18, 2020
UBCIC Remembers Renowned Nisg̱a’a Leader and Trailblazer Joseph Gosnell
((Xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish) and səl̓ilwətaʔɬ/sel̓ílwitulh (Tsleil-Waututh)/Vancouver, B.C. – August 18, 2020) The Union of BC Indian Chiefs (UBCIC) is deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Dr. Joseph Gosnell after his long-fought battle with cancer. An admired politician, treaty negotiator and incomparable leader of the Nisga’a Nation, UBCIC mourns the loss of not only an incredible pioneer of Indigenous Title and Rights, but a loving father who leaves behind seven children and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. We offer our deepest condolences to his wife of 64 years, Audrey Adele, his family, friends, and community members.
A hereditary Nisga’a chieftain of the Laxsgiik (Eagle) Clan, Joseph blazed the way for Nisga’a self-determination and sovereignty. Serving as the Nisga’a chief negotiator, he helped negotiate and implement the landmark Nisga’a Treaty – the first modern treaty in Canada that was signed by the federal and provincial governments in 1988. Joseph was an architect of the reclamation of Indigenous dignity and authority; he pioneered a pathway to reconciliation and sovereignty that will be an everlasting and inspiring legacy for generations to come. Garnering numerous honours over the course of his career, including the Order of British Columbia, Dr. Joseph Gosnell will be remembered as a titan and champion of Indigenous rights – a man who was a pillar of strength and wisdom for his Nation and Indigenous peoples around the world.
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Media inquiries:
Grand Chief Stewart Phillip, President of UBCIC: (250-490-5314)
Chief Don Tom, Vice-President of UBCIC: (604-290-6083)
Kukpi7 Judy Wilson, Secretary-Treasurer of UBCIC: (250-320-7738)
UBCIC is an NGO in Special Consultative Status with the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations.
For more information please visit www.ubcic.bc.ca