Big Tide (Low Water) Haida Title

The Haida have long asserted title and sovereignty over their entire territory, and after many years of nation building, taking stands, negotiations and governance the Gaayhllxid / Gíihlagalgang “Rising Tide” Haida Title Lands Agreement was signed by the Haida Nation and the provincial government in April 2024 and now in February 2025 the Chiixuujin / Chaaw Kaawgaa “Big Tide (Low Water)” Haida Title Lands Agreement was signed by the Haida Nation and the federal government. The Agreements include BC’s and Canada’s recognition of Haida Aboriginal title and marks a significant milestone in the journey to reconciliation.

My novel, A Room in the Forest, is set in 1999, before the name Queen Charlotte Islands was put in a bentwood box and respectfully given back to the province. Before the west coast of Graham Island, also known as Duu Guusd, was recognized as a protected area by the province (the Haida protected it in 1982). Before the Village of Queen Charlotte (once known as Queen Charlotte City) reverted to its ancestral village name, Daajing Giids.

I lived on Haida Gwaii for ten years (2004–2014) and mostly worked as a reporter for the local newspaper. Many important shifts happened in that time: the Islands’ Spirit Rising movement, Protocol Agreement signings with all the non-Haida communities and the opening of the Haida Heritage Centre at Kay ’llnagaay, to name a few. As a participant in and observer of island life, I wrote or worked for various magazines, the Haida Gwaii Museum and Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve and Haida Heritage Site. In all roles, I learned valuable stories and perspectives and witnessed the great diversity of individuals who call the place home.

I’m so happy that all the hard work I witnessed in those years and all the work done by young and old in the many years before and after have led to this. My hands go up to all involved. Haawa for your dedication to this profound moment.