Passing of Earl Muldon - Delgamuukw brings many tributes through the week

The passing of Earl Muldon is being commemorated
across the Northwest this week
(image from BC Achievement Foundation video)

The life of Earl Muldon, the Gitxsan Hereditary Chief known as Delgamuukw has been commemorated for much of the week since word of his passing at the age of 85 was first announced on Tuesday. 

His life and times celebrated as a carver, artist and long known for his iconic place in the recent history of Indigenous rights and title, a period of his life which made him one of the most respected of First Nations leaders in the Northwest.

Just his name stands as a pivotal moment in the evolution of current Canadian-First Nations relations, the Delgamuukw decision a moment of change in British Columbia and for Canada.

The Supreme Court case of the 1990's charting the long fought battle for Aboriginal rights, featuring the testimony of Hereditary chiefs Muldon, Alfred Joseph and many others bringing about the court decision making for a turning point on aboriginal rights and title for the future for governments to navigate.

His passing was noted by Stikine MLA Nathan Cullen, who share his thoughts through his Social media feed earlier this week.

Likewise, Skeena-Bulkley Valley MP Taylor Bachrach also recounted the impact of his life on the Northwest and for the Gitxsan people.

Coast Mountain College also paid tribute to his life, noting of both his work as an advocate for Indigenous rights and his skills as a carver, with some of his works on display in New Hazelton. 

Included in their collection of reminiscences is a You Tube video from the BC Achievement Foundation which highlights his artistic achievements, celebrating his many works.

With COVID on the rise once again, the Gitxsan are working out how they will pay respect to his life and include the members of the Nation in those commemorations.