Yahguudang • Yahguudáng Respect for all Beings

Yahguudang is the backbone to the Haida Ways of Being. We show respect to all things. Much of the flora and fauna of our Islands is unique to Haida Gwaii, guided and protected by Kálga Jáad Ice Woman during the last glacial retreat. We continue to monitor and respect all the beings of Haida Gwaii to ensure they remain and our ways of life flourish. You can help by:

• Acknowledging Haida title throughout Haida Gwaii, including rights

  • Knowing and respecting that you are a guest to Haida Territory

  • Acknowledging that Haida citizens carry the inherent right to govern and steward Haida Gwaii.

  • We encourage you to try learn and use the proper Xaad Kíl and Xaayda Kil names for our communities (see Haida Language References at the bottom of our website)

  • Honour and be mindful to Haida protocols. Some are outlined in this orientation, but you may come across others in local signage, museum visits, or conversations with local people. Examples include:

    • Showing respect to those who have passed on to the Spirit World by not entering or photographing local cemeteries

    • Haida protocol and provincial laws state to keep away from caves

• Speaking kindly and listening thoughtfully

  • Sharing Haida history is a sensitive matter, and some people carry intellectual property that cannot be shared. Our local storytellers and historians may only share with you what is comfortable and appropriate.

• Walking, driving, parking and camping only where permitted

  • HlGaagilda Skidegate and Gaw Tlagée Old Masset are not open for camping

  • Before entering a trail, make sure it is intended for visitor use -not all trails are maintained properly and could be dangerous

• Keeping a safe distance from wildlife

  • The Haida Gwaii taan black bear are a unique subspecies that only exist here and are pillars to the health of our forests and waters. For these reasons, the Haida Nation has declared this keystone species off limits to hunting. Stand with the Haida Nation’s decision and always keep a safe distance from táan.

  • Keep a safe distance from kun whales, remember: “See a spray stay away!” and follow federal regulations to stay at least 100m away