Chawathil Nation Declaration Engagement

Creating Space for Community-Driven Governance

Chawathil First Nation is using the Declaration Act Engagement Fund (DAEF) to advance their self-governance journey in a way that reflects their values, priorities, and people. The funding has provided the space to engage with community members on their own terms—without pressure to fit into external timelines or agendas.

What’s Happening in Chawathil First Nation

Through support from the DAEF, Chawathil has been able to host community meetings, consult with leadership, and explore how their Nation wants to move forward in shaping governance and decision-making. The funding has been flexible, allowing the Nation to pivot, plan, and lead the process in a way that’s truly their own.

As shared in the video, “This fund allows us to work at our own pace. We’re building something real—and that takes time.”

The Nation is using the opportunity not just to engage with the Declaration Act but to reimagine what it means to govern in a way that is culturally grounded and community-driven.

Supporting Self-Determination for BC First Nations

Across British Columbia, BC First Nations are reclaiming their governance systems and defining their relationships with Crown governments in ways that are meaningful and locally driven. The Declaration Act Engagement Fund supports this work by offering funding that prioritizes flexibility, respect, and community leadership.

About the Declaration Act Engagement Fund (DAEF)

The DAEF provides funding to BC First Nations to support engagement with the Province of BC on matters related to the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (DRIPA). The fund supports Nation-led processes that explore governance, policy, law-making, and community engagement.