We are thrilled to congratulate Dr. Kii’iljuus Barbara Wilson—a beloved member and advisor of the Indigenous Aquaculture Network—for her Honorary Doctorate from Simon Fraser University earlier this year. This degree celebrates her many contributions to Indigenous Knowledge, conservation and environmental justice. This doctorate honors her individual career and shines light on the broader contribution of Indigenous Knowledge holders within academic institutions.
Dr. Kii’iljuus (Cumshewa Eagle Clan, St’aw.waas X_aaydaG_a, Haida Nation) is a Haida Scholar and Matriarch, as well as a great grandmother and educator. She is a Cultural Advisor at Simon Fraser University’s School of Resource and Environmental Management, as well as Adjunct Professor and Cultural Advisor with the Center for Indigenous Fisheries in the University of British Columbia’s Institute for Oceans and Fisheries. Barbara embodies a legacy of stewardship rooted deeply in her ancestral teachings.
“In this time of climate change, it’s really important to acknowledge Indigenous mariculture as conservation and recognize First Nations governance over our land and resources. It’s time to put the library back together and learn about all the things my ancestors did to ensure that there is enough fish and octopus — looking after and respecting the environment. We managed to live in the world for thousands of years without the massive ecological destruction that’s happening now. It’s very much about not taking more than you need.”
– Dr. Kii’iljuus
Dr. Kii’iljuus’ lifetime of achievements is characterized by her profound commitment to Indigenous knowledge and finding solutions to contemporary environmental challenges through healing. Her dedication to preserving and teaching traditional knowledge supports Indigenous climate justice, food sovereignty, and intergenerational healing. As an educator, writer, and speaker, she continues to inspire discourse on climate change and conservation through centering Indigenous governance and management systems. Her participation as an official observer at COP 21 in Paris as well as her contributions to Canada’s House of Commons Standing Committee on “Integration of Indigenous Traditional Knowledge and Science in Government Policy Development”, underscore her pivotal role in shaping policies that safeguard our planet’s future through centering Indigenous knowledge and wisdom.
This honorary degree conferred by Simon Fraser University not only recognizes Dr. Kii’iljuus’ academic achievements, building upon the master’s degree she earned at the age of 76, but also affirms the value of Indigenous knowledge systems in addressing contemporary environmental challenges. Kii’iljuus pours her energy and leadership back home on Haida Gwaii and across the globe, focusing on how a restored library of Indigenous wisdom can best prepare the future generations for the work ahead.
“The Pacific Ocean is our “common bowl.” Our food, medicine, and life came and continues to come from the ocean. We are Ocean People. Our old stories tell us that our kuuniisii (ancestors) came out of the ocean. Among the Haida, our ancient laws of yahguudang (respect), ‘laa guu ga kanhllns (responsibility), isda ad dii gii isda (reciprocity), gina ’waadluxan gud ad kwaagid (interconnectedness), and the ability to tll’yahda (make things right) live within us and guide our relationship with the ocean and all its occupants. These ancient laws teach us how to be kind, caring, and responsible parts of the environment. Similar laws are held by coastal Indigenous People across the Pacific Ocean. Today, when disrespect, harm, unnecessary destruction, or overharvesting happens under colonial law, it is necessary and important to tll’yahda.”
This incredible achievement will hopefully mark the beginning of more Indigenous knowledge holders being recognized in academic institutions and beyond for their incredible contributions to preserving and sharing ancestral knowledge.
On behalf of the Cross-Pacific Indigenous Aquaculture Community, we extend our deepest congratulations to Dr. Kii’iljuus Barbara Wilson. Her journey has inspired so many of us to uphold principles of environmental justice and sustainability. Dr. Kii’iljuus’ honorary doctorate is not just a personal accolade but a celebration of resilience, knowledge, and the transformative power of Indigenous voices in academia and beyond.
Congratulations, Dr. Kii’iljuus Barbara Wilson, on this most-deserved honor!
