Biography of Late Ernest Campbell Former Musqueam Chief

Chief Ernest Campbell Musqueam First Nation

Chief Ernest Campbell was first elected as Councillor to the Musqueam Indian Band in 1969. He served as Chief for three two-year terms in the 1980s, returned as Chief in the election of 2004, was re-elected again in 2006, 2008, 2010 and in 2012 decided that he would retire.

Chief Campbell was the main Spokesperson and Chief Negotiator for the Musqueam Indian Band. He was also Chairman of the Musqueam Fisheries Commission, and was extensively involved in all aspects of the Musqueam Band business for many years.

2008 was a monumental year for Chief Campbell. As a leader and visionary for the Musqueam Community he negotiated and concluded two significant agreements. The first was an Olympic Legacy Agreement with the Federal Government that ensured the Musqueam people a share in the economic, social and cultural benefits of hosting the 2010 Winter Games. The second landmark agreement, signed with the Province of BC, called the Reconciliation, Settlement and Benefits Agreement provided the full and final settlement of outstanding litigation which recognized Musqueam’s legal right to consultation and accommodation, as well as, providing long-term benefits and resources to the Musqueam Community.

He attended St. Paul’s Residential School and graduated from Magee High School in Vancouver. He is a former boxing champion holding titles such as the Golden Gloves, Silver Gloves, and Buckskin Gloves.He had a passion for soccer as a player, coach, and fan. He was also a warrior for canoe racing and spent many years of time and commitment with the 7 Sisters Canoe Club.  He was a devoted husband, father and grandfather and was a strong pillar of strength in his family and community.