Nisga'a Nation mourns the passing of Dr. Joseph Gosnell

Dr. Joseph Gosnell has passed away 
at his New Aiyansh home leaving the 
Nisga'a Nation in mourning today
(Gov't of Canada photo from Order of Canada event)

The Nisga'a Nation has announced the passing of one of their most influential statesmen with the Nisga'a Lisims Government advising their members as well as the residents of British Columbia and Canada of the death of Dr. Joseph Gosnell.

Describing Dr. Gosnell aptly so as a Giant, Eva Clayton the current President of the Nisga'a Nation noted his determination and leadership towards the negotiation of the Nisga'a Treaty, hailed by many as one of the most successful of treaty negotiations in the modern era.

"Through his wisdom, dignity and determination, Dr. Joseph Gosnell helped lead the Nisga'a people out of the Indian Act and into self-government through his work in negotiating and implementing the Nisga'a Treaty, which has become a beacon of hope the world over. 

His focus was always on what the Nisga'a, British Columbians and Canadians can achieve together. His legacy will help shape the project of reconciliation for generations to come."-- An excerpt from today's announcement from the Nisga'a Lisims Government on the passing of Dr. Gosnell

A biography at the time of his award of the Companion of the Order of Canada highlights some of that work.

As we outlined in April of last year, Dr. Gosnell was named Chancellor of the University of Northern British Columbia, his body of work to that date hailed by the university, with the opportunity to call on his lifetime of experiences something which UNBC was looking forward to.

Doctor Gosnell who was 84, passed away at his home in New Aiyansh having waged a long battle with cancer.

The full announcement can be reviewed here.

The arrangements for Dr. Gosnell's funeral will be announced by his family.

The Nisga'a Lisims Governmen has shared a link with those who may wish to share their condolences with his family, you can do so at communcications@nisgaa.net

As word has begun to be shared of his passing politicians have paid their tributes, the first to do so were BC Liberal Leader Andrew Wilkinson, as well as Skeena MLA Ellis Ross. 

As more are relayed we shall add them below.

Further items of interest on the Nisga'a Lisims Government and the Nass Valley can be found from our archive page.