Skii km Lax Ha

Chief Darlene Simpson


Darlene Simpson is the Chief of the Tsetsaut Skii km Lax Ha Nation. As the current holder of the hereditary name Skii km Lax Ha, she carries forward a legacy that stretches back through generations of Tsetsaut leadership.

Chief Simpson's lineage traces back to the ancient Tsetsaut village of Ts'imanluuskeexs. She is a proud member of the Lax Ganhada (Raven) clan, a lineage that has played a major role in the history of the upper Nass and Skeena watersheds.

Before being given the name Skii km Lax Ha, Chief Simpson held the name Adii am and worked closely with the late Chief Johnny Wilson, who held the name Skii km Lax Ha until 2005. Together, Chief Wilson and Chief Simpson have been instrumental in defending the rights and territory of the Tsetsaut Skii km Lax Ha Nation over the past few decades that have seen a rapid increase in mining activity and other projects across TSKLH Territory.

Chief Simpson is dedicated to preserving and revitalizing Tsetsaut cultural practices while guiding her nation towards a sustainable future. She oversees the Tsetsaut Skii km Lax Ha Nation's stewardship of their vast traditional territories, which span parts of the Nass River, Skeena River, Bear River, and Stikine River watersheds in northwestern British Columbia.

In her role as Hereditary Chief Skii km Lax Ha, Chief Simpson engages with neighbouring First Nations, government officials, and industry partners to protect the Tsetsaut Skii km Lax Ha Nation's rights and interests. She is committed to sustainable development that benefits her community while respecting their cultural values and deep connection to the land.

Chief Simpson is a strong voice for her people, working tirelessly to ensure that the legacy of Tsetsaut Skii km Lax Ha endures and thrives in the modern world.