Gitxan

Gitxsan, sometimes spelled Gitxan or Gitx̱san, are an Indigenous people of the Pacific Northwest Coast in northwestern British Columbia, Canada. Their traditional territory lies along the Skeena River and its tributaries in the upper Skeena region, including Hazelton and surrounding communities such as Kispiox, Gitsegukla, and Gitwangak. They are part of the Coast Tsimshianic language group and speak Gitxsan, a dialect of Sm'algyax (Coast Tsimshian).

Society is organized around hereditary house groups within a clan system. Land and resource rights are held by hereditary chiefs, and governance operates through inter-community councils and ceremonial exchanges, including potlatches that transmit status and wealth.

Historically, the Gitxsan relied on salmon fishing, hunting, gathering, and trade with neighboring nations. In the present, they pursue self-government, land and resource management, and treaty negotiations through the Gitxsan Nation.

A key moment in Canadian law is Delgamuukw v. British Columbia (1997), a Supreme Court decision brought by Gitxsan and Wet'suwet'in hereditary chiefs recognizing Aboriginal title and setting standards for proving land claims. The Gitxsan continue to seek recognition of their rights through negotiations and legal action.

Cultural revitalization efforts include language programs and the preservation of heritage sites such as the Ksan Historical Village in Hazelton. Today, the Gitxsan maintain traditions while participating in modern governance and the broader Canadian economy.