Kmoks First Nation makes history with milestone in land governance [Video]

The K’ómoks First Nation is making history by becoming the first land code nation in Canada to appoint a justice of the peace – and she’s been recognized as a trailblazer, too.

“I’m honoured, truly honoured, to be able to contribute in a small way to the safety of this community and to the protection of this beautiful land,” said Dr. Marion Buller, justice of the peace for the Vancouver Island First Nation.

The Mistawasis Nêhiyawak Cree Nation member has 40 years of legal experience, and the K’ómoks said she has “shattered barriers” throughout her career. She was the first Indigenous woman appointed as a provincial court judge in B.C. And after serving as a judge for 22 years, she became the chief commissioner for the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls.

The mid-island First Nation said the appointment is an expression of self-governance.

“This will …