Dr. Joseph Gosnell, the Nisg̲a'a representative in negotiations that led to the Nisg̲a’a Treaty signing in 1998, which was first modern treaty between a B.C. First Nation, British Columbia and Canada, has died.
Gosnell also served as Chancellor of UNBC from 2019 until today (Aug. 18), to which the Prince George post-secondary has lowered its flags to half-mast in his honour.
He died early this morning following a long battle with cancer.
“Today we have lost a giant,” says Eva Clayton, President of the Nisg̲a'a Nation, in a news release.
“Through his wisdom, dignity, and determination, Dr. Joseph Gosnell helped lead the Nisg̲a'a people out of Indian Act and into self-government through his work in negotiating and implementing the Nisga’a Treaty, which has become a beacon of hope for people the world over. His focus was always on what the Nisg̲a'a, British Columbians, and Canadians can achieve together. His legacy will help shape the project of reconciliation for generations to come.”
Gosnell grew up in the Nass River Valley communities of Gitwinksihlkw and Gitlaxt'aamiks, roughly 100 km north of Terrace, where, as a young man, he worked as a commercial fisherman, carpenter and traditional carver, and would eventually become a band Councillor and Chief of the Gitlaxt'aamiks Band.
He was the first elected President of the Nisg̲a'a Lisims government and was instrumental in bringing modern medical care, education and resource management to his Nation.
“The world has lost a tremendous leader, a man who repeatedly demonstrated a love for his community, his people, education and a commitment to enhancing the lives of others,” said UNBC Interim President and Vice-Chancellor Dr. Geoff Payne in a news release.
“His dedication to education was evident during his time as Chancellor. He brought dignity and respect to all proceedings, and spoke thoughtfully, inspiring our graduates at Convocation. He will be dearly missed.”
Gosnell received the Order of B.C. in 1999, the Lifetime Achievement Award from the National Aboriginal Achievement Foundation, now Indspire, in 2000, was named an Officer of the Order of Canada in 2001, promoted to Companion in 2006, and received the Queen Elizabeth II Golden Jubilee Medal in 2002.
Gosnell was married to his wife Audrey for 64 years, and, together, they had seven children and several grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
“It was an honour that a man as influential and well respected as Dr. Gosnell would be Chancellor for our University, and we are deeply saddened at such a profound loss,” said UNBC Board of Governors Chair Aaron Ekman.
“The University community extends our heartfelt sympathy to his wife Adele, their seven children, numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and all those who reside in the Nisg̲a’a Nation. For decades they looked to this great man for his wisdom and leadership, and he led the way fearlessly and with compassion.”
A fluent speaker of the Nisg̲a'a language, Gosnell’s hereditary chief name is Sim'oogit Hleek, the most senior name in the House.
It means “well-used” or “most useful,” and in the manner that the Nation uses his wisdom, strength, and knowledge of culture to inform everything they do on the land.
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