On the anniversary of the public stand against clear cut logging at Athlii Gwaii, or Lyell Island, many of the same people who stood on the line 33 years ago reunited.
In the Old Massett hall, on Sunday, July 22, approximately 500 people shared stories and food in memory of the movement that lead to the establishment of the Gwaii Haanas Park Reserve.
Clear cut logging on the island began in 1975. But south of Lyell there had been no logging until 1985 when the a new logging area was approved by the forests ministry. Opposition to logging was evident. Haidas took a fleet of seine boats to Athlii Gwaii to stop the logging, and demand the area be preserved.
Many of those who stood up for their land and against the logging took part in the anniversary celebration.
READ MORE: Athlii Gwaii Legacy Trust nears relaunch
andrew.hudson@haidagwaiiobserver.com
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