Home News & Events News FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | PROMINENT NISG̱A’A LEADER EDMOND WRIGHT PASSES AT 80

Nisga’a Nation photo archive of the Late Edmond Wright: https://nisgaanation.zenfolio.com/p957556777

To: Nisga’a Lisims Government
From: Sherwin Shih, A/Regional Director, Pacific and Yukon Region Impact Assessment Agency of Canada / Government of Canada
On behalf of the Impact Assessment Agency of Canada, we were deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Nisga’a leader Edmond Wright. We extend our heartfelt condolences to Nisga’a Nation, Mr. Wright’s family and friends as the community mourns his loss.
Mr. Wright was a dedicated leader whose key role in negotiating the Nisga’a Treaty, alongside his many other important contributions in service to the Nisga’a Nation, reflected his deep commitment to his people, and his passing is a profound loss. As treaty partners, we are grateful for this service and know that his legacy will continue to positively shape the future for Nisga’a Nation and for Canadians for generations to come.
As we continue our work with you in support of the Nisga’a Treaty, the Impact Assessment Agency of Canada will be guided by the strong foundation shaped by Mr. Wright and remain committed to advancing this work in a manner that reflects his leadership, vision, and enduring contributions.
At this difficult time, please know that we are holding Nisga’a Nation in our thoughts and best wishes.
With sincere sympathy,
Sherwin Shih



To the Nisga’a Nation,
On behalf of the Kitselas First Nation, I wish to offer our sincere condolences on the passing of Mr. Edmond Wright.
Our late leader, Mel Bevan, held Edmond in high regard and would often call upon him to share his deep knowledge and experience, particularly regarding the fiscal arrangements within Treaty.
With his passing, the Nisga’a Nation has lost a true knowledge keeper and a foundational negotiator of the modern treaty process.
His contributions to Indigenous self-governance will not be forgotten. Our thoughts are with his family and the entire Nisga’a Nation during this time.
Sincerely,
Glenn Bennett
Chief Councillor,
Kitselas First Nation

It is sad to hear of Simoogit K’amluugidis’ passing. I grew up knowing his work — first as a child listening from the edges of governance, then as someone who eventually stepped into those rooms myself. He always spoke with certainty and compassion, and he carried the kind of clarity that steadied everyone around him. He made sure the money was there, the path was clear, and the Nation was protected. His voice shaped so much of what we now take for granted in our governance. I honour his life, his leadership, and the legacy he leaves for all of us.
Luusgadalks
Sherry Small

Photo: Nisga’a Tribal Council Meeting, New Aiyansh, BC, Community Hall, Executive Members
To: Nisga’a Lisims Government
From: Jack Cecil
It is with much sadness that I write to offer my condolences to the family of Mr. Edmond Wright. Ed and I were at the Edmonton Indian Residential School that garnered pleasant as well as unpleasant memories. However these occurrences did not get in the way of our friendship and common knowledge of our Great Nation, “The Nisga’a!” Way beck when Ed was a band manager he reached out to me and offered assistance by way of Educational Funds. At the time I was living in Florida after I had resigned from “The Chieftones!” You can say that Edmond was of great influence for my success in life! Susan and I wish Edmond a pleasant voyage and may he rest in peace!
Jack Cecil

Dear Eva, I am deeply saddened to hear of Ed’s passing. Jim had a profound respect and a true fondness for him. He always held their friendship in high regard. I personally cherish the memory of meeting Ed during the adoption of the Nisga’a Treaty at the House of Commons. It was a privilege to have known him during such a historic moment. I loved his sense of humour. Please accept my most heartfelt condolences. My thoughts are with you and the Nisga’a Nation during this difficult time.
Guylaine