Member Nation Profiles

Member Nation Profiles - icon (7)  Ka:’yu:’k’t’h’/
Che:k’tles7et’h’
Member Nation Profiles - icon (7)  Yuułuʔiłʔatḥ
Member Nation Profiles - icon (7)  Toquaht
Member Nation Profiles - icon (7)  Uchucklesaht
Member Nation Profiles - icon (7)  Huu-ay-aht
Member Nation Profiles - icon (7)  Ka:’yu:’k’t’h’/
Che:k’tles7et’h’
Member Nation Profiles - icon (7)  Yuułuʔiłʔatḥ
Member Nation Profiles - icon (7)  Toquaht
Member Nation Profiles - icon (7)  Uchucklesaht
Member Nation Profiles - icon (7)  Huu-ay-aht
Member Nation Profiles-Underscrore

Five distinct nations, 
one shared Treaty

The Maa‑nulth Treaty Society serves five sovereign Nations, each with their own unique identity, governance, and culture.

Member Nation Profiles-Underscrore
Constitutional recognition

The Maa-nulth Treaty is recognized as a treaty under sections 25 and 35 of the Constitution Act, 1982, which acknowledges and affirms existing aboriginal and treaty rights.  The treaty grants the five distinct Maa‑nulth First Nations the authority to govern themselves and enact laws in a number of areas, including land, resources, and culture, as defined within the agreement.

 

With unique histories, customs, traditions and visions for the future, each Maa‑nulth nation maintains their distinct identity and self-government. Each Maa‑nulth First Nation has a self-determined constitution that outlines its governance structure and ensures government accountability.

Huu-ay-aht First Nations

Huu-ay-aht First Nations (pronounced “Hoo-ay-at”) have deep ancestral connections to the lands and waters surrounding Pachena Bay, near Bamfield on Vancouver Island’s west coast. With a deep connection to the ocean, Huu‑ay‑aht is governed by an elected Chief Councillor, legislative and executive councils who work in harmony with traditional hereditary leadership.

 

Embracing both traditional values and modern economic opportunities, Huu‑ay‑aht has developed diverse enterprises including forestry, hospitality, and fisheries. The Nation is committed to revitalizing the main village of Anacla, fostering community well-being and the preservation and the restoration of traditional sites. Huu‑ay‑aht is also a partner in the Bamfield Main Road revitalization and has made significant investments in education, health, and child and family services to support their long-term advancement.

Ka:'yu:'k't'h'/Che:k'tles7et'h' First Nations

Ka:’yu:’k’t’h’/Che:k’tles7et’h’ First Nations (pronounced “Kie-you-ket/Checkle-set”) is the most northern Maa‑nulth nation. Kyuquot Sound and Checleset Bay area is on the North Western section of Vancouver Island. These remote areas are accessible only by boat and plane.  This dual Nation is led by a Legislative Chief, legislature and executive, who maintain strong connections to Ka:’yu:’k’t’h’/Che:k’tles7et’h’ First Nations Area through stewardship practices.

 

The Nations’ remote location has helped preserve many traditional practices, while also presenting unique opportunities for economic development. The Nations’ diverse economic initiatives include sustainable fisheries, tourism, and forestry management, balancing economic growth with cultural revitalization and environmental stewardship.

Toquaht Nation

Toquaht Nation (pronounced “Toe-kwat”) is located in the northern region of Barkley Sound. The Nation is governed by a constitution which blends traditional and elected systems of leadership. Toquaht is led by the taayii ḥaʔw̓ił (hereditary leader), council and executive, maintaining a strong connection to ancestral governance while embracing contemporary approaches.

 

Toquaht maintains a powerful cultural identity and is actively engaged in economic development initiatives, focusing on their beautiful location and natural resources.

Uchucklesaht Tribe Government

Uchucklesaht Tribe (pronounced “You-chuck-le-sat”) has traditional territories in Barkley Sound around Uchucklesaht Inlet and Henderson Lake. Governed by a Chief Councillor, Legislative and executive councils, the government is committed to strengthening community through sustainable development and cultural revitalization, reflecting the values and traditions of the Uchucklesaht Tribe.

 

Uchucklesaht is at the forefront of developing innovative approaches to sustainable resource management and community development, with economic initiatives including water bottling, forestry, and real-estate. With a focus on creating opportunities rooted in Uchucklesaht’s rich heritage and connection to traditional territories, respect for the land, and a vision of prosperity for current and future generations.

Yuułuʔiłʔatḥ Government - Ucluelet First Nation

Yuułuʔiłʔatḥ (pronounced “You-thloo-ith-at”), also known as Ucluelet First Nation, has area located on the Pacific Rim of Vancouver Islands West Coast around Ucluelet Inlet and Barkley Sound. The Nation is governed by a President, legislature and executive.

 

Yuułuʔiłʔatḥ economy is diversified to include interests in tourism, fishing and small business development. The Nation owns and operates the Wya Point Resort and Wya Welcome Centre, which reflect a strong commitment to cultural tourism and environmental stewardship. Yuułuʔiłʔatḥ places deep emphasis on cultural preservation and language revitalization, working to pass down traditional knowledge, songs, and the nuučaan̓uł language to younger generations. The Nation continues to build capacity through investments in infrastructure, health services, and intergovernmental partnerships.

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History and Background of the Maa-nulth Treaty
In 1994, fourteen Nuu-chah-nulth Nations united in their vision for self-determination, by entering into...
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Treaty Timeline
Our journey to the Maa-nulth Treaty represents years of dedication, collaboration, and perseverance....
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Maps and Territory
The five Maa-nulth Nations' areas stretch from Barkley Sound to Kyuquot Sound, representing both ancestral...
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