Statement of Solidarity from Huu-ay-aht First Nations

February 11, 2026

Statement of Solidarity from Huu-ay-aht First Nations

The Huu-ay-aht First Nations (HFN) Government are profoundly saddened by the horrific tragedy that occurred yesterday, February 10, 2026, at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School. Our hearts are heavy for the students, staff, and families who this violence has directly impacted. We recognize the unimaginable trauma experienced by those within the school walls and the long road of healing that lies ahead for the entire student body, faculty, and overall community of Tumbler Ridge.

As we send our strength to the school community, we also extend our respect and condolences to all Nations who call Treaty 8 home, whose land we recognize as the place where this tragedy occurred. We stand in solidarity with you as you support your youth and families through this time of profound grief.

In Nuu-chah-nulth and Huu-ay-aht culture, we live by three sacred principles, one of which is hišukma c̕awaak (everything is one). When the heart of a community, its school, is hurt, the impact is felt by all of us, from our coastal shores to the mountains of the Peace River region.

We send our prayers for the healing of the injured and the strength of the first responders. To the families grieving unimaginable loss: please know that from our shores to your mountains, we are holding you in our hearts.

Key BC Crisis Resources:

  • 9-8-8 Suicide Crisis Helpline: Call or text 9-8-8 (Available 24/7).
  • 1-800-SUICIDE (1-800-784-2433): Specifically for suicide prevention/intervention.
  • 310-6789: BC Mental Health Support Line (no area code needed) for emotional support.
  • KUU-US Crisis Line: 1-800-588-8717 (Indigenous-specific, 24/7).
  • Youth Services: Call or text 686868 (Kids Help Phone).

View Official Statement: Here

Members of the Land Claim Agreements Coalition (LCAC) Call on all Political Parties to Support Bill C-10

On Monday, February 9, 2026 at a news conference in Ottawa, members of the Land Claims Agreements Coalition call on all political parties to support Bill C-10, the government’s bill to establish a commissioner for modern treaty implementation. The legislation, which was co-developed with Indigenous treaty partners, is currently at second reading in the House of Commons. Among the press conference, participants were Debra Febril (Executive Chairperson, Nisga’a Lisims Government), John Jack (Chief Councillor, Huu-ay-aht First Nations), Wilfred Cootes (Chief Councillor, Uchucklesaht Tribe government), Ruth Massie (Chief, Ta’an Kwäch’än Council), and Kilikvak Kabloona (CEO, Nunavut Tunngavik Inc.).

See recording or live press conference here: click here

See Press Release here: click here

Attention Huu-ay-aht & Maa-nulth-aht Fishers: Winter Chinook Me Too Fishery Starts January 9, 2026.

Attention Huu-ay-aht & Maa-nulth-aht Fishers:
The ICEF Economic Winter Chinook Me Too Fishery starts January 9, 2026 and is open until March 15, 2026, or until the quota catch is met.

Larry Johnson with Chinook, August 2025.

Requirements:

  • Registered vessel which meets marine safety requirements.
  • Inshore or offshore fishing is allowed [The fishing area is PFMAs 123-127 and portions of PFMAs 23-27].
  • Any gear type is permitted – use of plugs is not required.
  • No gill net or seine net permitted.
  • Non-retention of Fraser Pink Salmon.
  • The fishery will close March 15, 2026 or when the allocation has been reached, whichever comes first.
  • Fishers must obtain license and documentation from HFN Natural Resources Manager before fishing commences.

For more information or to sign up and get your license please contact:
Amelia Vos – Natural Resources Manager. 250-728-3414 or amelia.v@huuayaht.org

See the attached documentation for more details.

Huu-ay-aht First Nations sign historic child and family services agreement with Province

Members of Huu-ay-aht First Nations celebrated a significant milestone on Dec. 16, 2025, by signing a child and family services agreement, known as the yaaʔak̓apʷin (we are embracing) agreement, with the B.C. Ministry of Children and Family Development.

View full press release: Here

Huu-ay-aht Youth Swiftwater training leads to participation in Huu-ay-aht Fisheries initiatives.

Swiftwater Training for Huu-ay-aht Youth provided valuable field skills and work experience, and the training has benefited several initiatives of the Huu-ay-aht First Nations (HFN) Fisheries program.

(Left to right) Victoria Williams, Vanessa Young, Zyliss Dick, and Seth Nookemus in Swiftwater training gear. Photo by Daniel Zayonc.

See photos and read the full story here!