New Relationship

The Government of British Columbia is leading the nation in developing a New Relationship with First Nations and Aboriginal people. Guided by principles of trust, and by recognition and respect of First Nations' rights and title, we are building a stronger and healthier relationship between government and Aboriginal people. By working together, we will bring tangible social and economic benefits to Aboriginal people across the Province and narrow the gap between Aboriginal people and other British Columbians.

The Ministry will continue to work closely with the Ministry of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation and other agencies on a variety of initiatives aimed at increasing economic activity and social and health benefits for Aboriginal people. Specific initiatives include:

• supporting the 2008 North American Indigenous Games in the Cowichan Valley, to showcase Aboriginal excellence in sport and culture;
• supporting the delivery of arts and cultural programs and policies focused on First Nations' retention and regaining of traditional knowledge, arts and culture;
• ensuring BC2008 celebrations include the culture, heritage and history of First Nations, as seen by First Nations;
• working with partners to support delivery of the Aboriginal Cultural Tourism Blueprint Strategy, including Aboriginal Tourism BC, the Ministry of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation, the Ministry of Economic Development, Tourism BC and other stakeholders;
• working to establish an Aboriginal Art Gallery;
• meeting government's commitment to new relationships with First Nations through meaningful and respectful consultations regarding tourism and resort development on Crown land; and
• development of a First Nations Accommodation/Economic Benefits Framework for Resort Development, in consultation with the Ministry of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation.