Gidimt'en Yintah Access

Why it matters

Coastal GasLink's 670 km route crosses roughly 190 km of Wet'suwet'en territory. Hereditary chiefs have not consented. The conflict has become a national test of Indigenous jurisdiction, climate policy, and police enforcement on land defence.

Background

For years, Wet'suwet'en hereditary leaders have upheld Wet'suwet'en law on their yintah while opposing fossil fuel infrastructure. Gidimt'en Access supports reoccupation, legal defence, and frontline costs for land defenders.

Wet'suwet'en hereditary chiefs maintain authority over traditional territories under Wet'suwet'en law. The Supreme Court of Canada recognized Aboriginal title in Delgamuukw (1997). Defenders describe pipeline approval as violation of free, prior and informed consent.

Pipeline construction continues in disputed areas. Legal challenges and frontline presence remain active as of 2026.

Timeline

1. 2019

   RCMP raids on Wet'suwet'en territory

   Arrests at Gidimt'en checkpoint spark nationwide solidarity actions.

   Source: Gidimt'en Yintah Access ↗

2. 2020

   Nationwide rail and port blockades

   Solidarity actions across Canada following enforcement on Wet'suwet'en land.

3. 2024–2026

   Continued reoccupation and legal fundraising

   Frontline camps and legal funds maintained through official channels.

   Source: Gidimt'en Yintah Access ↗