The Treaty 8 Tribal Association, in collaboration with The City of Fort St. John, have announced a joint documentary film project titled “The Spirit of Treaty 8.”
The film will highlight the history and significance of the treaty, which was signed on June 21, 1899, and will mark its 125th anniversary.
“We are excited to share the story of Treaty 8 with this opportunity to showcase the continuing culture and long history of the Treaty 8 Territory,” said West Moberly First Nations Chief Roland Willson.
The 40-minute documentary will feature stories, cultural events, and interviews with First Nations and community leaders from Treaty 8 Territory.
Funded by Heritage Canada, the project is being led by the Treaty 8 Tribal Association, who will oversee the documentary’s direction, content, and scope, ensuring that Indigenous voices, perspectives, and cultural practices are central to the storytelling.
The City of Fort St. John will provide administrative support.
“We are proud to support this initiative and look forward to all Canadians connecting with this vital story,” said Mayor Lilia Hansen in a release announcing the collaboration.
The film project, started in 2024, will span two years, with screenings across Treaty 8 and digital access planned to reach Canadian masses once the film is complete.
The documentary is being produced by the Indigenous-owned production company, InnoNative founded by Haida Director Patrick Shannon.
The Treaty 8 Tribal Association represents six First Nations, including Fort Nelson and Doig River, across Northeast B.C.
While Treaty 8 covers roughly 840,000 kilometres of landmass and is home to 39 First Nations communities, including 23 in Alberta, 3 in Saskatchewan, 6 in the Northwestern Territories, and 8 in British Columbia.