VANCOUVER –The Huu-ay-aht First Nations, a community situated on the western coast of Vancouver Island, has issued a formal advisory urging its members to avoid all non-essential travel to the United States. The warning comes in response to heightened immigration enforcement and stricter border measures currently being implemented by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Chief John Jack stated that while such an advisory is unprecedented for the community, the current climate regarding U.S. immigration has made this a necessary precaution to protect their citizens.
Of the approximately 900 members of the Huu-ay-aht First Nations, roughly 50 reside within the United States. Chief Jack expressed concern over reports of U.S. agents stopping and detaining individuals, emphasizing that community members should no longer rely solely on their Indigenous Status Cards as valid identification when crossing the border or traveling within the U.S. Instead, the leadership is strongly advising any members who must travel to carry a valid Canadian passport to ensure their citizenship and legal status are clearly recognized by U.S. authorities.
Despite the urgent nature of the travel advisory, Chief Jack clarified that no members of the Huu-ay-aht First Nations have reported any personal incidents or issues with U.S. border agents to date. The measure is being described as proactive, aimed at ensuring that members are not caught in the crosshairs of intensified enforcement actions that have reportedly affected other Indigenous travelers. The community continues to monitor the situation closely as they prioritize the safety and security of their members abroad.
