Athlii Gwaii Legacy Trust Act Ushers in Economic Opportunities for Haida Gwaii
The Gwaii Trust Society is thrilled to announce a significant milestone in the journey towards economic revitalization for Haida Gwaii. After a decade of advocacy and negotiations, the Athlii Gwaii Legacy Trust Act has been passed which will inject additional funding into the local economy, paving the way for a brighter future.
The Act facilitates the transfer of the Athlii Gwaii funds to the Gwaii Trust Society, unlocking opportunities for economic development, job creation and sustainability. Originally established in 2007 by the Government of British Columbia as a charitable trust with remnants from the South Moresby Forest Replacement Account, the Athlii Gwaii Legacy Trust, now valued at $60 million, has long been inaccessible due to administrative hurdles.
Since 2014, trustees have tirelessly engaged with both provincial and federal governments to find a solution, ensuring that these funds can finally be accessed to benefit the communities of Haida Gwaii. Once the legislation passes, while Athlii Gwaii will be amalgamated into Gwaii Trust, the funds will be tracked separately and allocated towards specific purposes: environmental restoration, renewable energy, and economic revitalization.
The Gwaii Trust extends heartfelt gratitude to all those who have contributed to this endeavor over the years. A special Haawa is extended to the communities and residents of Haida Gwaii for their steadfast support, advocacy, and patience throughout this process.
Chair of the Gwaii Trust Society, Huux̱ Percy Crosby, states, “With the capital from Athlii Gwaii Legacy Trust finally coming home to the Gwaii Trust, we can continue the work of restoring the land, building our communities, and pursuing a path that is shaping a positive future for Haida Gwaii. The opportunities that this fund can initiate will begin to make an impact today, laying the foundation for a sustainable and thriving community that echoes through the generations to come”.
For more information on the Athlii Gwaii Legacy Trust, visit HERE
Questions:
Latasha Williams, Chief Operations Officer
Email: info@gwaiitrust.com
