As tributes continue to roll in for Nisga'a Leader Dr. Joseph Gosnell, reflections from NDP minister Melanie Mark hit the mark

Tributes continue to arrive for Dr. Joseph Gosnell.
The Nisga'a leader passed away on Tuesday at New Aiyansh
(photo from UNBC)

As is the case when anyone of important status in society passes on, the comments and tributes from politicians, journalists and many others at the passing of Dr. Joseph Gosnell have given testimony to his impact on the Nisga'a Nation, British Columbia and Canada.

It is however, a statement from NDP Minister Melanie Mark which perhaps captures the sense of moment the best at what had been by Dr. Gosnell and the lessons he taught many along the way. 

The provincial minister of Advanced Education, Skills and Training, who is of Nisga'a heritage framed a remarkable career quite well with her reflections.

NDP Cabinet Minister
Melanie Mark has paid
tribute to Dr. Gosnell

“Among his many accomplishments, Dr. Gosnell was instrumental in negotiating the landmark Nisga’a Final Agreement in 1998 – the first modern treaty between a First Nation, British Columbia and Canada. 

Through his leadership an entire generation of Nisga’a citizens have benefited from his relentless advocacy.

Dr. Gosnell attended St. Michael’s Residential School in Alert Bay, the same school my late grandmother, Thelma Mark, attended. Dr. Gosnell believed strongly in the power of education. 

In his own words, “The best thing I can do is encourage young men, women, no matter who they are, to take advantage of education.”

Ms. Mark  also took note of the many honours and awards that the Nisga'a leader had received over the years as well as his dedication to community.

In May of last year the MLA was part of the celebration of the 19th year of the Nisga'a Treaty.

Her tribute and condolences to the family of the briefcase warrior can be reviewed here.

The MLA also took note of her excitement  and pride at his appointment as Chancellor of the University of Northern British Columbia in 2019, and yesterday the University also shared in the mourning of the passing of the Nisga'a leader and distinguished British Columbia statesman.

"The world has lost a tremendous leader, a man who repeatedly demonstrated a love for his community, his people, education and a commitment to enhancing the lives of others. His dedication to education was evident during his time as Chancellor. He brought dignity and respect to all proceedings, and spoke thoughtfully, inspiring our graduates at Convocation. He will be dearly missed.” -- UNBC Interim President and Vice-Chancellor, Dr. Geoffrey Payne. 

Some of the other tributes paid to Dr. Gosnell can be reviewed from our blog item of Tuesday here.

A look at some news items on the passing of Dr. Gosnell can be found on our political Blog D'Arcy McGee and our Victoria Viewpoints feature.

Further items of interest from the Nass Valley can be reviewed here.