Heiltsuk Nation

Haíɫzaqv

"To speak and act correctly."

We are a proud Indigenous Nation on the Central Coast of British Columbia, with a history spanning thousands of years and deep roots in the lands and waters that sustain us.

Chief & Council Election — Upcoming 2026

Current term: August 2022 – 2026 · Election details to be announced

Welcome

the Heiltsuk Tribal Council Official Website

We are committed to advancing the rights and well-being of the Haíɫzaqv people. Our vision focuses on preserving and revitalizing our cultural heritage while fostering a sustainable relationship with our environment.

We honour the teachings passed down through generations, carrying forward our customs, language, and traditions. By sharing our stories, challenges, and successes, we aim to build understanding and inspire positive change.

We invite you to explore, learn, and engage with our history, culture, and ongoing work. Together, we move forward with respect for both past and present.

Welcome to the Haíɫzaqv Nation.

Who we are

Our Mission

The Heiltsuk Tribal Council is committed to protecting our way of life and guiding our Nation toward a strong and sustainable future. Through accountable, transparent, and inclusive leadership—and by upholding Gvi'ilas (our cultural laws)—we bring together tradition and innovation to ensure future generations inherit a thriving Heiltsuk world.

Our Vision

Guided by Gvi'ilas, we work in unity to build a safe and prosperous Nation that honours our history while revitalizing our language, culture, and people. By upholding both traditional and contemporary practices, we support long-term sustainability, health, and wellbeing—ensuring a strong future for our sásṃ and generations to come.

Heiltsuk community
Heiltsuk territory
~2,532 Registered members
Heiltsuk waters
Heiltsuk lands
~1,400 Living on reserve
Heiltsuk territory aerial
16,658 km² Traditional territory
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Our History and Stories

Qṇts núyṃ́

Haíłzaqv / Heiltsuk means "to speak and act correctly," reflecting the principles that guide both our ancestral and contemporary ways of life. This philosophy shapes our ǧvı̓ḷás (laws), ensuring the long-term sustainability of our people, lands, and waters. Our goal is to carry forward a lasting legacy—a thriving Haíłzaqv world that supports the health and well-being of future generations.

Hí lṇ́txv gvúkvḷa la gax̌ v la ǧiálayáx̌ i. We, the Haíłzaqv, have been here since time immemorial.

Our history is one of resilience, deeply rooted in our ancestral homelands. Oral histories—Qṇts núyṃ́ —supported by archaeological evidence, trace our presence back over 14,000 years, including survival through the Ice Age and great floods, when our ancestors sought refuge in the high mountains surrounding what is now known as Campbell Island.

Our lineage spans more than 700 generations, with strong kinship systems and alliances formed through the Hemas' families. Historically, our Nation flourished with over 50 permanent villages and seasonal camps along salmon rivers and marine trade routes, supporting a population of more than 10,000 people.

Territory & environment

Facing Colonial Challenges

Our deep-rooted existence faced profound disruption with the arrival of settlers. Beginning in 1822, reserve systems were imposed, and our people were relocated to 22 reserve areas. Our village was renamed "Bella Bella," and we were identified as the "Bella Bella Indian Band." By 1899, epidemics such as smallpox had reduced our population to approximately 300 people.

The Indian Residential School system forcibly removed our children from their families and communities, with many never returning home.

The Sixties Scoop further disrupted our Nation, as children were placed into foster care or adoption outside of Heiltsuk families and culture. The enfranchisement of Heiltsuk women and their children represented another policy that sought to weaken our Nation and disconnect families from their rights and identity.

Map of Heiltsuk traditional territory

Heiltsuk Across Generations and Geography

Our Resilience

Our núyṃ́ teaches that no matter where we live, we remain Heiltsuk—connected through our ancestral lineages and shared identity. Traditionally organized in tribal groups, we have always maintained strong interrelationships, a practice that continues today. Whether in Bella Bella or living elsewhere for education, work, or other opportunities, our connections remain strong, supportive, and enduring.

Today, we continue to thrive while upholding our heritage and sovereignty as Heiltsuk people. Our Nation now includes 34 reserves spanning approximately 35,553 square kilometres—only a small portion of our ancestral lands and inherent rights and title. Heiltsuk Nation territory includes several tribes, such as Wuyalitx, 'Qvuqvayaitxv, Wuilitxv, Yisdaitxv, and Xixis. Bella Bella, located on Campbell Island, remains the heart of our territory on the Central Coast of British Columbia.

We share a common Híɫzaqvḷa language and remain united through our cultural, political, and socio-economic systems.

Our Culture

Heiltsuk Values

As the Heiltsuk Nation continues to grow and steward our traditional territories, we are also evolving our governance and leadership to meet present and future needs.

Our policies are grounded in the values and principles of our ancestors, guiding and preparing our young people for the challenges and opportunities ahead.

Our Values

  • Traditional Laws (ǧvı̓ḷás): Honouring our ancestors and their teachings.
  • Adaptability: Evolving with the times while preserving our heritage.
  • Culture: Upholding and celebrating our language, customs, and traditions.
  • Transparency: Leading with honesty and openness.
  • Strength: Drawing from the resilience of our people.
  • Accountability: Being responsible to our Nation and future generations.
  • Respect: Valuing each other, our land, and our traditions.
  • Responsibility: Safeguarding our way of life.
  • Collaboration: Working together as a unified Nation.
  • Integrity: Acting with honour and in alignment with our values.
Heiltsuk cultural march Heiltsuk ceremony Heiltsuk potlatch gathering Heiltsuk art and regalia Heiltsuk heritage head

Governance

Chief and Council

Our traditional governance system was rooted in hereditary leadership through our Y'mas (Hereditary Chiefs), their advisors, and the wider community. Decisions were made by consensus, guided by transparency, accountability, and collective responsibility.

This system was significantly altered following the imposition of the Indian Act in 1876. Since then, the Heiltsuk Tribal Council has evolved to reflect both traditional and contemporary governance approaches.

Today, our elected Council is made up of a Chief Councillor and 11 Councillors representing both on- and off-reserve members. Chief Councillor candidates must reside on reserve, while Councillor candidates may come from either constituency. Councillors serve 2- or 4-year terms, depending on election outcomes, and are assigned specific portfolios during their term.

The Council is responsible for overseeing community services, including infrastructure, programs, facilities, and key initiatives that support the ongoing wellbeing and development of the Nation.

Elected Chief

Marilyn Slett

March 2021-2025
Marilyn.Slett@heiltsuk.ca

K̓ áwáziɫ, Marilyn Slett, is the elected Chief Councillor of the Heiltsuk Tribal Council, currently serving her consecutive term since 2008. In addition to her role as Chief Councillor, she holds the following positions:

● President of the Coastal First Nations/Great Bear Initiative
● Appointed member of the Committee on First Nations Health Governance Renewal by the First Nations Leadership Council

Marilyn has also previously dedicated her time and served as:

● The BC Assembly of First Nations Women's Representative on the National Assembly of First Nations Women's Council
● Co-Chair of the Wild Salmon Advisory Council
● Board Director for the BC Assembly of First Nations
● Member of the Vancouver Coastal Health Board of Directors

Her extensive leadership experience and dedication to her community continue to drive positive change and advocate for the rights and well-being of our Nation.

"Believe in the journey – Paddle together"

K̓áwáziɫ Marilyn Slett

K̓áwáziɫ Marilyn Slett

Elected Chief Councillor

Amory Hall

Amory Hall

Councillor

Jacquelyn Nadrazsky

Jacquelyn Nadrazsky

Councillor

Saul Brown

Saul Brown

Councillor

Louisa Housty

Louisa Housty

Councillor

Elroy White

Elroy White

Councillor (Hereditary Chief)

Dawn Hall

Dawn Hall

Councillor

Clark Wilson

Clark Wilson

Councillor

Maria Martin

Maria Martin

Councillor

William Gladstone

William Gladstone

Councillor

Ryan Peers

Ryan Peers

Councillor

George Young Sr

George Young Sr

Councillor

Term Dates

Dawn Hall — Aug 9, 2022 to Aug 8, 2026

Louisa Housty-Jones — Aug 9, 2022 to July 9, 2026

Maria Martin — Aug 9, 2022 to July 9, 2026

Ryan Peers — Aug 9, 2022 to July 9, 2026

Clark Wilson — Aug 9, 2022 to July 9, 2026

George Young Sr — Aug 9, 2022 to July 9, 2026

This term is less than the usual 4-year term for this election only, based on the 2024 Heiltsuk referendum to realign terms.

Saul Brown — March 11, 2025 to Aug 8, 2028

William Gladstone Sr — March 11, 2025 to Aug 8, 2028

Amory Hall — March 11, 2025 to Aug 8, 2028

Jacquelyn Nadrazsky — March 11, 2025 to Aug 8, 2028

Elroy White — March 11, 2025 to Aug 8, 2028

Marilyn Slett — March 11, 2025 to Aug 8, 2028

Chief Executive Officer

Medric (Bo) Reid

Reporting to the Council, the CEO is the senior operations officer responsible for ensuring the fair and effective management and administration of the Nation.

Key responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

  • Upholding and achieving the mandates of the Heiltsuk Tribal Council
  • Protecting the inherent and Aboriginal rights of the Heiltsuk Tribal Council
  • Representing the Council at public meetings as required
  • Strategic planning and operational affairs of the Heiltsuk Tribal Council

Upcoming election

Joint Leadership

Heiltsuk Nation

Blended Governance Model: Hereditary Chiefs and Elected Officials

Our governance model brings together Hereditary Chiefs and elected officials, combining ancient governance traditions with contemporary requirements under the Indian Act. This blended system supports our vision of unity, self-reliance, and self-governance while upholding Heiltsuk culture, language, and values.

Rights and title to our lands and waters are carried through the lineage of Hereditary Chiefs, who work alongside elected leadership on key political and cultural priorities, including treaty matters, resource management, alliances, and dispute resolution.

This collaboration is supported through a formal Memorandum of Understanding that defines shared jurisdiction and coordinated stewardship of lands and marine resources, including sustainable use and management.

The current MOU, signed in 2020 for a three-year term, includes the Heiltsuk Tribal Council, the Hemas Council, the Heiltsuk Integrated Resource Management Department, and the Heiltsuk Economic Development Corporation.

Heiltsuk Nation Notice of Nomination Meeting

We, the Heiltsuk Nation, hereby give notice that we have called an election in accordance with the Heiltsuk Custom Election Rules, for the purpose of electing six (6) Councillors for a term ending in 2030.

Nomination Meeting
Date: May 21, 2026
Time: 5:00 PM
Location: Big House - 223 Wabalisla Street, Bella Bella

Voter list Download notice

Election Code

Under the Indian Act (1876), our Nation is registered as a "Section 10 Band." Section 10 of the Indian Act allows a Nation to assume control of its own membership so long as the band can meet the requirements outlined in Section 10 (Government of Canada, 2018).

It also allows us to develop our own laws, known as codes. We have established our own procedures for electing our councillors.

This document, crafted by our Band, outlines tailored procedures for electing our government. Once endorsed by our membership, it replaces the election rules mandated by section 74 of the Indian Act and its regulations. Easily accessible, you can print or download the PDF to gain comprehensive insights into our electoral processes.

Download our Custom Election Code today!

Election Rules

Ḿṇúyaqs Council

The Ḿṇúyaqs (Hereditary Chiefs') Council is a traditional governance body that works alongside the elected Chief and Council. The Ḿṇúyaqs Council provides guidance on cultural matters, traditional laws, and the long-term vision for the Nation.

Heiltsuk Women's

Declaration

We are Heiltsuk women. Strong as cedar, we are the lifeblood of our people.

We are mothers, dughters, grandmothers, aunties, and sisters—holding our Nation together and carrying it forward.

Rooted in a matriarchal tradition, our womanhood is a source of strength and blessing. We are central to Heiltsuk families and ceremonies.

We hold the right to health, wellness, safety, and dignity, and the responsibility to care for the wellbeing of our families and future generations. These are principles of reciprocity, respect, love, equality, justice, and joy.

We are supported by our family ties, guided by Gvi’las, and strengthened by the teachings passed down since time immemorial. We carry the presence of our ancestors and the responsibility to future generations.

We are sacred in mind, body, and spirit—women of integrity, grounded in Heiltsuk culture. We honour ourselves, and we honour one another.

Heiltsuk Nation · Haíɫzaqv

Bylaws & community governance

Sections 81-86 of the Indian Act grant band councils the authority to create and pass by-laws. These by-laws are applicable and enforceable within the boundaries of Indian reserves and apply to all residents, regardless of status.

To be enforceable, by-laws must be enacted through the process outlined in the Indian Act.

Violations of these by-laws can result in summary conviction offenses, leading to fines or other penal sanctions.

Key areas covered

Residency Bylaw

This bylaw regulates construction, renovation, and building standards within Heiltsuk reserves. It sets out rules related to building permits, inspections, zoning compliance, structural safety, and land use — ensuring all developments meet community and safety standards.

Download PDF
Disease Emergency Bylaw

This by-law aims to prevent the spread of contagious and infectious diseases to safeguard the health and well-being of residents while respecting the Aboriginal rights and title of the Heiltsuk Nation.

Download PDF
Dangerous Person and Trespassing Bylaw

This by-law addresses concerns regarding dangerous individuals on reserve lands and trespassing activities, and imposes penalties for violations.

Download PDF

Financial

Administration Law

What is a Financial Administration Law (FAL)?
A FAL is a set of governance and finance practices that helps Councils and staff make informed decisions and run their First Nation well. A Nation that lives by its FAL commits to good governance and finance practices over the long-term.

Financial Administration Law or By-Law
In order to be eligible for the 10-Year Grant, a First Nation must enact either a Financial Administration Law or By-Law that meets the FMB's Financial Administration Law Standards and that brings into force certain minimum provisions. Heiltsuk Tribal Council entered into a 10 year grant in 2018.
FAL makes good governance easier by putting the same good finance practices into the hands of current and future Council and staff members. This makes HTC more stable and strengthens members' confidence in how it is run.

A FAL helps to:

  • Run a First Nation more smoothly
  • Build a strong financial future
  • Grow the economy in a sustainable way
  • Be transparent about Nation finances
  • Borrow money to bring to life needed projects
  • Show the use of good governance and finance practices

Heiltsuk Tribal Council completed their legal requirements for the FAL in 2021 Working Towards Certification. A Financial Management System (FMS) Certificate proves to Council, community members, lenders, business partners, and others the use of good governance and finance practices as outlined in the Financial Administration Law (FAL). It also allows borrowing members to remain in good standing with the First Nations Finance Authority (FNFA). A borrowing member is a First Nation that has been approved by the FNFA to borrow from it.

Thank you to the Humanity Financial Team who have worked with our Finance Team. They provided guidance, advice and mentoring while serving as the CFO.

Client List | First Nations Financial Management Board (fnfmb.com)

Join Our Team

Careers

The Heiltsuk Tribal Council is always looking for dedicated individuals who share our commitment to community, culture, and the well-being of the Haíɫzaqv people. Explore current opportunities to contribute to the future of our Nation.

Finance Manager

HEDC · Full-Time

External Job Posting · The Heiltsuk Economic Development Corporation (HEDC)

The Heiltsuk Economic Development Corporation has a job opening for a Finance Manager. The scope and responsibilities of this role cover all business entities of HEDC.

Reporting to the Chief Financial Officer, the Finance Manager directly manages the finance programs and services and reporting related to payroll, revenue recording, accounts payable, accounts receivable, banking, and tax administration for the corporation. The Finance Manager plans and manages budgets, and plans, organizes, directs, controls and evaluates: (a) finance programs, services, and reporting; (b) financial management of capital projects; and (c) tax administration.

This external job posting will remain open until May 22, 2026. To apply, send your resume to jobs@heiltsuk.ca.

HEDC Closes: May 22, 2026
Know More →

Haíɫzaqv Language Nest Assistant

Temporary Full-Time

External Job Posting — 013-2026

The Ɫáwíní Sásṃ Beloved Children Haíɫzaqvḷa Nest has a temporary full-time job available for a Haíɫzaqv Language Nest Assistant. The work term is scheduled to take place upon hiring (at earliest) and will continue until August 28, 2026, and is funded by the FNESC Mentor Work Placement program.

Schedule: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM

FNESC Mentor Work Placements are designed to support individuals to build job skills while gaining meaningful employment that will support future employment opportunities. Please see eligibility requirements in the job posting.

Wáglísla (Bella Bella) Culture & Language
Know More →

Casual Work Opportunities

Part-Time Casual

External Job Posting — 001-2026 · Standing Posting

The Heiltsuk Tribal Council accepts applications for casual work on an ongoing basis. Casual workers help cover leave, temporary workload increases, and seasonal needs across several departments. Hours vary from less than a full day up to 40 hours per week.

Opportunities include: Receptionists / Admin Support, Janitors, Outreach Workers (Urban), Women's Shelter Support Workers, Facility Attendants, Equipment Operators, Carpenters, Building Maintenance Workers

Wáglísla (Bella Bella) / Vancouver Various Departments
Know More →

Public Works Manager

Full-Time · Bella Bella, BC

Employment Opportunity — 014-2026

The Public Works Manager will oversee the management and delivery of municipal-type services including water treatment and distribution, wastewater collection and treatment, drainage systems maintenance, roadways maintenance, and byways and greenways and parks and cemetery, marina and wharf.

Please submit your application to jobs@heiltsuk.ca. Please identify in your email subject line that you are applying to "014-2026 Public Works Manager."

Wáglísla (Bella Bella) Closes: May 15, 2026 · 4:00 p.m.
Know More →

Bylaw Enforcement Officer

Full-Time · Administration

External Job Posting 011-2026

The Administration Department has a new career opportunity available for a Bylaw Enforcement Officer. Respecting the interests of the Heiltsuk Nation, the Bylaw Enforcement Officer will support and promote and deliver culturally appropriate bylaw enforcement, animal control, and community safety services that protect residents, property, and community wellbeing. This role balances enforcement with public education, prevention, animal welfare, and peacekeeping approaches, including responding to animal related incidents, conducting patrols, liaising with enforcement partners, and ensuring accurate incident documentation.

This internal job posting will remain open until May 12, 2026. To apply, send your resume to jobs@heiltsuk.ca.

Wáglísla (Bella Bella) Closes: May 12, 2026
Know More →

To apply, send your resume to:

jobs@heiltsuk.ca

Insights

IMO legal committee intervention

IMO legal committee — oil spill cultural compensation intervention

April 13 – 17, 2026, London, England

Chief & Council Election 2026

Chief & Council Election 2026

Date to be announced, Current term ends Aug 2026

Summer 2026 events

Summer 2026

Date to be announced, Wáglísla (Bella Bella)

Key milestones And News

Recent history

2025

Written constitution ratified by Heiltsuk members — a historic milestone in self-governance.

2022

Current Chief and Council elected for a four-year term.

2021

Oil Tanker Moratorium Act — a direct result of Heiltsuk advocacy.

2019

New ceremonial Big House completed in Bella Bella.

2016

Great Bear Rainforest accord finalized — one of the largest conservation achievements in Canadian history.

1997

R. v. Gladstone — Supreme Court of Canada ruling recognizing Heiltsuk Aboriginal right to harvest and sell herring spawn on kelp.

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