BC First Nations Fisheries Council

09/30/2026

Content warning: This post discusses residential schools and their ongoing impacts.

Today is National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. We honour Survivors and acknowledge the lasting impacts of residential schools on Indigenous Peoples, families and communities across British Columbia and Canada.

May today be a reminder to continue listening, learning and reflecting beyond September 30.

Reconciliation goes beyond one day. It’s something we carry forward.

09/17/2026

09/16/2026

Stronger Together.

On September 8, 2026, the North Coast Skeena First Nations Stewardship Society (NCSFNSS) and the First Nations Fisheries Council of BC (FNFC) signed a Partnership Accord, committing to work together to advance First Nations’ interests in fisheries and natural resources across British Columbia.

We look forward to working alongside NCSFNSS and building on this partnership to support First Nations priorities across the province.

Pictured: Glenn Bennett, Board Chair, NCSFNSS, and Stu Barnes, Executive Director, FNFC.

09/11/2026

September 30 is Orange Shirt Day and the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.

It is a day to honour the children who never returned home, Survivors, their families and communities, and reflect on our shared responsibility toward truth, healing and reconciliation.

Looking for ways to participate?
🧡 Wear an orange shirt in honour of Survivors, and to affirm that Every Child Matters.
• Squamish Nation Wool Weaving - West Vancouver, Sept 12 & 19: https://ow.ly/1LNh50ZM5uj
• ʔəm̓i ce:p xʷiwəl / Come Toward the Fire Festival - UBC, Sept. 18–20: https://ow.ly/jEvP50ZM5uc
• Day Out at MOA - Museum of Anthropology at UBC, Sept. 19: https://ow.ly/qp1150ZM5ub
• Lunch & Learn Webinars - National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation, online, Sept. 21–25: https://ow.ly/jnzr50ZM5uk
• A Resting Heart: Documentary Screening and Conversation - Abbotsford, Sept 23: https://ow.ly/MLHF50ZM5us
• The Path Forward, curated by the VSO Indigenous Council - Sept 27: https://ow.ly/ciNG50ZM5ua
• Stetís ímexstowx (Walk Beside Us) - Abbotsford, Sept 30: https://ow.ly/GWAF50ZM5ug
• A Gathering of Remembrance & Care - Victoria, Sept 30: https://ow.ly/rgGj50ZM5ui
• Truth & Reconciliation Day at MONOVA - North Vancouver, Sept 30: https://ow.ly/zjk350ZM5uh

08/31/2026

FNFC extends our deepest condolences to Grand Chief Stewart Phillip, Joan’s family, community and loved ones.

We honour MLA Joan Phillip, Amshen, and the lasting impact of her leadership, courage and dedication. Her legacy will continue to be felt by many.

Our thoughts are with all those mourning her passing.

The family of MLA Joan Phillip, Amshen, is deeply saddened to share that Joan passed away peacefully this afternoon, surrounded by her the love of her life, Grand Chief Stewart Phillip, her children, grandchildren and family at the age of 74. Joan was a fearless warrior and inspirational leader, and we will miss her dearly. The family asks for privacy at this time, and in lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the B.C. Cancer Society.

08/21/2026

Featured in the August edition of Smoltalk, FNFC’s newsletter, is Greg Witzky, FNFC Council Delegate for Mid Fraser (1).

Greg reflects on his lifelong connection to the Adams River, from his childhood along its waters to more than three decades of work dedicated to fisheries and salmon. He also shares his insights into the 2026 dominant Adams River sockeye run and what to expect as the run unfolds around mid-October.

Read Greg’s full story at www.fnfisheriescouncil.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/FNFC-Smoltalk-August-Edition.pdf

Fraser Salmon

08/18/2026

🛶 Last week, the FNFC team came together for our Summer Social, spending the afternoon canoeing along False Creek.

Along the way, we learned about the Indigenous history and cultural significance of the area, as well as the tidal flats and natural ecosystems that once existed throughout False Creek. We also learned about the enduring tradition of canoe culture, which has been passed down since time immemorial.

More than a way of travelling on the water, canoeing carries important teachings, honours ancestors, strengthens connections to the lands and waters, and brings communities together.

We’re grateful to Canoe Cultures for guiding us on the water. Thank you for sharing your knowledge and teachings with our team.

06/21/2026

Today, June 21, we celebrate National Indigenous Peoples Day.

This year's celebration falls on the Summer Solstice, the longest day of the year. For many Indigenous Peoples, the Solstice is a sacred time of renewal and connection to land, community, and spirit.

FNFC is honoured to have Elder Ron Bartlett share a small glimpse into his home community, Kitsumkalum First Nation. Ron takes us along and shows us how the Kitsumkalum People have long carried their culture, traditions, and spirit with deep pride. We are grateful to learn from and walk alongside them.

To all Indigenous Peoples across Turtle Island: your culture, your stories, and your strength are a gift that deserves to be honoured not just today, but every day.