The First Nations Leadership Council (FNLC) and the Pacific Institute for Climate Solutions (PICS) have entered into a Relationship Protocol to strengthen First Nations climate leadership, advance climate priorities, and generate meaningful benefits for First Nations in British Columbia.
L-R: Hugh Braker, First Nations Summit; Grand Chief Stewart Phillip, Union of BC Indian Chiefs; Cheryl Casimer, First Nations Summit; Regional Chief Terry Teegee, BC Assembly of First Nations; Ian Mauro, PICS; Janna Wale, PICS; Fraser Hof, UVic.
The Relationship Protocol between First Nations Leadership Council and the Pacific Institute for Climate Solutions establishes a collaborative, constructive, and voluntary working relationship between the FNLC and PICS, a collaborative research institute that is hosted at the University of Victoria. It is designed to uphold First Nations title, rights, and treaty rights while advancing climate action across British Columbia.
We have to elevate our thinking. We are well on our way to a climate crisis. Each and every year is regarded as the hottest only to be eclipsed the next year. We have to think beyond what the needs are for this coming year, we are responsible for the well-being of our families and grandchildren."
Grand Chief Stewart Phillip, Union of BC Indian Chiefs
"I am excited for the opportunity to partner with PICS to ensure First Nations knowledge and innovation can be spotlighted in research. We have an emotional relationship to our lands and waters. It will trigger great discussions."
Through this protocol, FNLC and PICS will support the implementation of the BC First Nations Climate Strategy and Action Plan and the Action Plan for Disaster Risk Reduction by First Nations in BC. These frameworks present a strong vision for First Nations-led climate action and emergency management, supporting current and future generations in achieving self-determination to care for the Earth and ensure health and stability in the face of the ongoing human-made climate crisis.
To support the protocol's implementation, PICS will invest in capacity building, research, and educational opportunities that foster collaboration between universities, First Nations organizations, and Nation partners. These efforts will complement the FNLC's ongoing implementation work.
"First Nations have deep wisdom, rich lived experience, and a long history of environmental stewardship and climate action," says Ian Mauro, PICS executive director.
PICS is honoured to support First Nations climate leadership and contribute to respectful, reciprocal, and relationship-based collaborations that weaves First Nations' and Westerns knowledges to implement climate solutions. The Relationship Protocol creates a meaningful foundation for academic and community partnerships that benefit First Nations and their lands and waters."
Ian Mauro, PICS executive director
The protocol will be in effect for four years. It was signed by the FNLC, PICS, and UVic on Jan. 21, 2025, during the BC Cabinet and First Nations Leaders' Gathering. The artwork for the protocol was designed by Gitxsan artist, author, and knowledge keeper Hetxw'ms Gyetxw.
The protocol aligns with the United Nations on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UN Declaration) and supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically #10 (Reduced Inequalities), #13 (Climate Action), and #16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions). Learn more about the SDGs at UVic.
About the First Nations Leadership Council:
- The First Nations Leadership Council is comprised of the political executives of the BC Assembly of First Nations (BCAFN), First Nations Summit (FNS), and the Union of British Columbia Indian Chiefs (UBCIC).
- The FNLC is a collaborative political working partnership among the three organizations, with the aim of advancing the interests of Nations in British Columbia.
- The mandate and work of the FNLC is collectively directed by Nations' governments through resolutions of the three political organizations.
About the Pacific Institute for Climate Solutions (PICS)
The Pacific Institute for Climate Solutions (PICS) catalyzes and mobilizes research, partnerships, and knowledge that generate climate action. PICS is hosted and led by the University of Victoria (UVic) in collaboration with Simon Fraser University, the University of British Columbia, and the University of Northern British Columbia.
A backgrounder is also available.
