BRIEFING NOTE
TO: UBCIC CHIEFS COUNCIL
FROM: UBCIC EXECUTIVE
DATE: FEB 19, 2019
RE: BC SPEECH FROM THE THRONE, 2019

PURPOSE
To provide a summary and analysis of the reforms and initiatives presented in the Throne Speech delivered at the BC Legislature in Victoria.

BACKGROUND
Lieutenant-Governor Janet Austin initiated the spring session of BC legislature on February 12 by delivering the throne speech that outlined the minority NDP government’s priorities and initiatives for 2019. The overarching theme of affordability mirrored last year’s speech, with promises from John Horgan’s government to implement affordable housing, affordable childcare, and a poverty reduction strategy. The throne speech of 2018 previously promised restrictions and checks on BC’s out-of-control real estate and rental market, including imposing a speculation and vacancy property tax. It also promised $153 million to help fund an action plan for affordable childcare and to carry out a new reconciliation focused strategy for improving relations with Indigenous people.

KEY POINTS
The following commitments in the speech are significant for First Nations in BC:
• BC will be the first province in Canada to introduce legislation to implement the UN Declaration, legislation that will be co-developed with the First Nations Leadership Council and other Indigenous organizations. If passed, this legislation will provide the foundation for BC’s work on reconciliation and will bring provincial laws and policies into harmony with the Declaration.
• A report on the agreement made last year between the government and First Nations to share in provincial gaming revenue, revenue that has supported Indigenous self- government.
• Supporting Indigenous learners by a implementing a new First Nations history curriculum and developing full-course offerings in Indigenous languages.
• Housing affordability will be improved by speeding up development permit approval processes to build affordable rental housing more quickly, and by addressing recommendations from the Rental Housing Task Force. BC continues to create initiatives for Indigenous housing on and off-reserve and housing for women and children leaving domestic violence.
• BC will deliver its first poverty reduction strategy; not much detail has been provided yet, but the government has stated it will “give people the opportunities and supports they need to reach their full potential.”
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• The government will implement a collaborative process to develop new legislation to give universal access to affordable childcare.
• The challenge and urgency of the climate crisis was stressed; measures for the implementation of CleanBC, the climate action strategy will be brought forward in Budget 2019. BC claims that its initiatives to reduce carbon pollution and drive economic growth will be done in partnership with First Nations governments.
• LNG Canada’s liquefied natural gas project will have a “continued focus on reconciliation with First Nations” and can proceed because the government’s four conditions were met, including “meaningful partnerships with First Nations” and its fitting within the CleanBC plan.

ANALYSIS
Because the Horgan government made the UN Declaration part of every cabinet minister’s mandate letter since 2017, it is very momentous that BC is finally treating the UN Declaration as more than just a symbolic placard and enshrining it into law. Likewise, BC’s commitment to sharing gaming revenue with First Nations was a step towards recognizing the economic component of Aboriginal Title. The shared revenue supports community building, services for families, and Indigenous peoples’ self-determination and their right to determine what happens on their territories.

The education initiative to introduce courses in Indigenous languages follows on the heels of Canada’s recently introduced Bill C-91, An Act Respecting Indigenous Languages. It is a positive step towards strengthening Indigenous language learning and promoting public awareness. However, the government’s promise to implement affordable childcare legislation in the speech did not mention Indigenous people. It is crucial that such legislation is developed in collaboration with First Nations so that it can remedy Canada’s failure to fairly and adequately provide for Indigenous children who are overrepresented in childcare. Likewise, BC’s proposed poverty reduction strategy must close the socio-economic gap between First Nations and Non-First Nations. It must recognize and focus on helping the disproportionate number of Indigenous people who are unable to afford housing and childcare and are more susceptible to the public-health crisis of drug overdoses.

The speech’s claim that LNG Canada fits within the province’s climate action plan and continues to focus on “reconciliation” is partially misleading. LNG Canada’s project poses immense environmental risks, including increased emissions and methane leakages. CleanBC only broadly states that it will partner with First Nations, with no comprehensive or detailed plans outlining how exactly it will achieve this. While elected First Nation band councils along the Coastal Gaslink route have signed agreements, there is also a significant and public number of First Nations who do not support the project and have made this clear to the Province. Furthermore, the speech did not touch upon new regulations and protections that would improve BC’s ability to prepare for and respond to bitumen spills.
Despite the speech’s statement that two independent reviews are underway on the role of money laundering in BC real estate, the speech did not call for a public inquiry into the money laundering in BC’s casinos. The consensus from many is that this throne speech was “stay-the course,” with no major new policy announcements, but pledges to continue making progress on existing priorities.

APPENDICES
• Speech from the Throne: https://www.leg.bc.ca/parliamentary-business/legislation-debates-proceedings/41st-parliament/4th-session/throne-speech

Syilx Okanagan Nation Territory, BC – On February 13, 2019, the Okanagan Nation Alliance (ONA), as part of the Fish in Schools (FinS) program, will deliver the final round of sc’win (sockeye salmon) eggs or fry to participating schools within the Columbia region of Syilx territory.

ONA’s FinS is a comprehensive fish education program for school students, with a focus on sc’win (sockeye salmon), their lifecycle and the importance of their ecosystems. By creating greater awareness of fish species, the intent is for students to become educated and aware of both salmon, their habitat and surrounding ecosystem. In the Columbia, this program also creates awareness of the historic salmon run from the ocean, upstream to the Kettle River, Columbia, Pend d’Oreille and Kootenay Rivers, including major tributaries the Salmo River and Slocan River. As such, FinS is a key step in the Syilx Nation’s broader intent to bring salmon back to their original range, having been blocked from returning by Hydro electric dams along the Columbia River in the 1940s.

In 2017-18 the ONA extended the FinS program to the Columbia region, collaborating with Glenmerry Elementary in Trail and Twin Rivers Elementary in Castlegar. This year the ONA have upscaled these efforts, and partnered with School Districts 8, 10, 20, and 51, Regional District of Kootenay Boundary, and Regional District of Central Kootenay to deliver the FinS program to nine schools throughout the Columbia including: Christina Lake Elementary, Glenmerry Elementary, Hutton Elementary, Kinnaird Elementary, Lucerne Elementary, Robson Community School, Salmo Elementary, South Nelson Elementary, and Twin Rivers Elementary.

Upon successfully raising the sc’win fry they will be included in the Syilx Okanagan ceremonial releases throughout the Syilx Territory.

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The Fish in Schools program has been running successfully since 2003 in the Okanagan region, and contributes to the kł cp̓əlk̓ stim̓ Hatchery’s fry release efforts. The kł cp̓əlk̓ stim̓ Hatchery is a testament to the perseverance of the Syilx people to realize their dream of restoring the n’titx^w (Salmon) – one of our Four Food Chiefs – to their original habitat and rightful place in our territory. Opened in 2014, the 25,000 square foot hatchery has the capacity to rear 8 million eggs. It is currently equipped to handle all fish culture aspects required for 5 million eggs from brood stock management until fry release.

For More Information Contact:
Howie Wright, ONA Fisheries Manager
Tel: (250) 718-5215

Michael Zimmer, ONA Fisheries Columbia Biologist
Tel: (250) 304-7341

One of the lowest returns in the past 10 years of scwin is expected in 2019. ONA biologists have analyzed a number of data sets*, and are currently forecasting lower than average returns of adult sc’win for the 2019 fishing season.

In comparison to the previous 10-year avg., our predictions suggest there will be 50% fewer sc’win coming back in 2019. Projections currently estimate between 30,000 to 70,000 sc’win to return to the Columbia River Basin, with approx. 17,000 sockeye making it to the spawning grounds in the Okanagan.

Salmon return every four years so this decline is directly related to the poor return of sc’win in 2015. The lack of fish in 2015 was due to higher than normal water temperatures that prevented sc’win to come back to their breeding grounds in the Okanagan, which subsequently led to increased mortality rates. In addition, US harvest rates in 2015 also contributed to these low returns.

During a year of limited abundance it has been common practice to decrease our community harvest. If our predictions are correct, opportunities for food fishing available to community will be highly limited, with no coordinated harvest by the ONA taking place.

In the face of these challenges, we are excited that this year will see the return of the Okanagan Lake hatchery fry. Of the 770,000 fry released in Okanagan Lake in 2015, we estimate 250-750 adults making their way back to the Okanagan Dam this summer. Expect to see these fish at the dam in July, or end of September to early October. Such returns will begin to illustrate the benefits and outcomes of our efforts to rejuvenate salmon in our territory.

The ONA is contributes to food sovereignty throughout the Nation. We sustain efforts at diversifying our food fishery, incorporating a wide range of traditional species including bull trout, sturgeon, and rainbow trout. In addition, we are committed to fostering education and awareness about the need for protection and rejuvenation of all aquatic life and their habitats. This includes Nation events, public signage initiatives, and education programs like Fish in Schools (FinS). We plan to hold a Nation-specific Fisheries Forum in the first quarter of 2019 focused on the current and expanding operations of our fishery and stewardship responsibilities. More details will be distributed once confirmed. We are also available to engage community in regards to wide range of these efforts upon request.

*ONA’s data sets are collected with the support of ONA’s CEC, CCT, PUDs, BPA and DFO, since 1995 using juvenile and adult biological traits such as abundance, age structure and survival estimates. It is one of the top ten richest data sets in the Columbia & BC for sockeye management. Official estimates of returns and harvest projections will be released by June 26, 2019.

For more information please contact:
Howie Wright, ONA Fisheries Manager
Cell: 1-250-718-5215 E: HWright@syilx.org

Tara Montgomery, ONA Communications Lead
T: 1-250-707-0095 ext. 120 E: tmontgomery@syilx.org

sc’win Returns Community Bulletin

Musqueam Territory, Vancouver, British Columbia: Today, November 28, 2018, at the University of British Columbia’s (UBC) Chan Center, ʔaʔsi wɬ  (Grand Chief Stewart Phillip) was awarded an honorary degree.

On behalf of the Syilx Okanagan people, we want to take this opportunity to express our gratitude to ʔaʔsi wɬ for his years of hard work. It is our tradition to celebrate the achievements of our people, but today we also pause to honour him for his perseverance and commitment.  He has fought many battles, and today we are in a new era, where our Title and Rights are finally being recognized. There is a genuine desire for reconciliation on all sides, and we, the Syilx Okanagan Nation, are the beneficiaries of these tireless efforts to improve the lives of all indigenous people within our Nation, our province, in this country and internationally. Today, we acknowledge and honor ʔaʔsi wɬ for this extraordinary achievement and recognition of his life’s work.

Chief Chad Eneas stated that ‘When Grand Chief Stewart Phillip began working for our communities and fighting for indigenous rights, he was not welcome at the table, but he was undeterred. He is a man of conviction, a diplomat, and steadfastly committed to the rights of indigenous people everywhere. We are proud to call him our own!”

Pauline Terbasket followed, remarking that “Grand Chief Stewart Philip is a visionary, a man of integrity and I’m proud to call him a mentor. He is a role model for all our young people. The Syilx people join together in celebration of this man who has fought tenaciously for indigenous title and rights.”

Lim’ limpt Grand Chief Stewart Phillip for all that you have done, and continue to do, for the Syilx Okanagan Nation!

For further info contact:

Tara Montgomery, ONA Communications Lead
t: 1.250.707.0095 ext.120 e: tmontgomery@syilx.org
MEDIA RELEASE – GCSP Honorary Degree

As part of our continued conservation efforts, the Okanagan Nation Alliance (ONA) is currently collecting broodstock gathering sockeye salmon eggs for the kł cp̓əlk̓ stim̓ Hatchery. It is recognized that Skaha and Okanagan Lake are nutrient poor when compared to Osoyoos Lake.  As with previous years, we will be restarting the Marine Nutrient Reintroduction Program. Through this program we return the salmon carcasses taken during broodstock back into local streams. This program proves important for stream vitality as well as fish returning to the streams. If we increase the nutrients then the lake may grow more food for young sockeye fry.

The Penticton Indian Band (PIB) has sanctioned and is collaborating on this activity for Trout Creek. We have a sign on location for the site that describes what we are hoping to achieve.

Any further questions or concerns may be directed to:
Norm Johnson, ONA Facility Operations Biologist
e: njohnson@syilx.org
t: 1.250.707.0095   ext 351

(Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc Territory/Kamloops, B.C. – October 3^rd, 2018) The Union of BC Indian Chiefs (UBCIC) is celebrating its 50^th Annual General Assembly (AGA) this week, a gathering of over 100 Chiefs, proxies, and policy experts to discuss significant political and social issues that impact BC First Nations.

The event is being held from October 2^nd through 4^th at Moccasin Square Gardens in Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc Territory. The theme of this year’s AGA is “50 Years of Exercising Our Title and Rights.”

“49 years ago, after a three-day meeting here in Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc, 175 Chiefs unanimously voted to create the UBCIC in order to defend our Aboriginal Title and Rights from Pierre Trudeau’s infamous White Paper,” said Grand Chief Stewart Phillip, President of the UBCIC. “What resulted is nearly 50 years of unwavering advocacy for Indigenous peoples across multiple sectors, including land claims research, violence against Indigenous women and girls, destructive resource extraction practices and projects, and the adoption and implementation of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.”

Agenda items include discussions of Canada’s proposed Recognition and Implementation of Indigenous Rights Framework, UBCIC’s submission to the National Inquiry on Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls, and protections for wild salmon. In addition, Grand Chief Phillip will be honoured for his 20^th year as President of the organization.

“The AGA is the centrepiece of UBCIC operations, a space where we can all gather and work on issues integral to our livelihood and identity as Indigenous peoples,” said Chief Bob Chamberlin, Vice-President of the UBCIC. “It’s a space where Indigenous voices are uplifted, celebrated, and given room to speak from our hearts and traditions. We discuss issues that are painful and exasperating, but our sense of community and strong determination turns our frustrations into tangible action at these meetings.”

UBCIC will host three special events in conjunction with the 50^th AGA: a group photograph, an Indigenous Women in Leadership Dinner, and a banquet accompanied by a test screening of the upcoming UBCIC documentary Unceded Chiefs, directed by filmmaker Doreen Manuel. The founding members and homemakers will be honoured at this banquet, along with those who participated in the 1980-1981 Constitution Express movement.

“The 50^th AGA marks a historic milestone for UBCIC. Despite major opposition, discrimination, and colonially-imposed barriers, we have survived and thrived as a leading Indigenous political organization.” said Chief Judy Wilson, Secretary-Treasurer of the UBCIC. “The late Grand Chief George Manuel, in conversation with Louise Mandell, stated that our rights need to be constitutionalized and also recognized. We will continue to fight tirelessly for the health and wellness of our peoples and communities and the further protection of our inherent Title and Rights – for fifty more years and beyond.”

Media inquiries:

Grand Chief Stewart Phillip, President, Union of BC Indian Chiefs: (250-490-5314)

Chief Bob Chamberlin, Vice-President, Union of BC Indian Chiefs: (250-974-8282

Chief Judy Wilson, Secretary-Treasurer, Union of BC Indian Chiefs: (250-320-7738)

As of July 27, 2018 about 193,038 Sockeye have entered the Columbia River. It is estimated that 85% of the return is Okanagan. We are anticipating there will be 209,000 sockeye returning in total. We estimate 70,000-75,000 sockeye have entered Osoyoos Lake
with an estimate of about 10,000 to 15,000 sockeye in Skaha Lake.

FOOD FISHING HARVEST
People were fishing at “sx̌ʷəx̌ʷnitkʷ (s-wuh-wuneetkw) and nʕaylintn (Ny-lin-tn) since the beginning of July and river temperatures have increased where the sockeye have fallen back into Osoyoos Lake. Catches so far in Canada for food fisheries are estimated to be about 1,000-2,000 in river.

REC FISHERY ON OSOYOOS LAKE
There will be a recreational fishery opening on Osoyoos Lake from August 3-13, 2018 with a 2
Sockeye/day limit. ONA will review catches on August 13, 2018 for consideration of another
recreational opening. Estimated catch is 2,000 sockeye.

ECONOMIC FISHERY
There will be an economic fishery with trolling only in Osoyoos Lake from August 3-31, 2018. Estimated catch is 3,000 sockeye.

If food fishing: Please have status card available as DFO enforcement
will be out periodically making sure it is only the ONA Members fishing right now.

For More Information Contact:
Howie Wright, Fisheries Manager T: (250) 707-0095 ext. 104 E: hwright@syilx.org
www.okanagannation.com

Fishing Notice_July 31 2018

Placer Mountain Fire

Location: Approx. 37 km south of Princeton.
Fire is located west of Ashnola River and Cathedral Park. The fire is not in the Park.
Date of Discovery: July 17, 2018
Fire Size: 520 ha
Status: Out of Control
Cause: Lightning
Resources: 22 firefighters, 4 helicopters, 8 pieces of heavy equipment and industry personnel.
Objectives: Continue establishing wet lines along hose trails. Bucketing is being carried out in areas where the fire is burning aggressively.
Danger tree assessing and danger tree felling is ongoing. Establish a contingency line to the west of the fire with heavy equipment. The fire has crossed McBride Creek and is progressing upslope into the old Diamond Fire of 2017.
Evacuations: No current evacuation orders or alerts. Future road or area restrictions may be implemented due to traffic on the Ashnola Road.

Snowy Mountain Fire (K51238)

Location: Approx. 14 km south of Keremeos
Date of Discovery: July 17, 2018
Fire Size: 1,530 ha
Status: Out of control.
Cause: Lightning
Resources: The fire continues to be monitored. A remote camera has now been set up and is providing real time imaging.
Objectives: Land managers have been consulted and trigger points have been set to determine at what point this fire will be actioned. The fire is burning at a high elevation and is visible to Cawston and Keremeos.
Other: This fire is located in the Snowy Protected Area. BC Parks has closed Ewart and Wall Creek trails pending further assessment of the fire.
For more information go to: http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks/wildfire/
Evacuations: There are no current evacuation orders or alerts.

ADDITIONAL CONTACT INFORMATION:
Information Officer: Ken Juvik | 604-819-7205
Placer Mountain Fire (K61241)

K61241 Community Bulletin July 25

At the 2018 ONA Annual General Assembly, on July 18th at saʔtikn at the Manning Park Resort, the Syilx Okanagan Nation Elders present and member Chiefs endorsed the  Iʔ Syilx iʔ sukʷnaqinx scqʷəlqʷiltət Syilx Okanagan Language Declaration. While the Council and Nation members signed as witnesses, drummers and singers provided spiritual significance to the signing with beautiful songs that filled the room already bursting with so much pride.

“axaʔ iʔ kʷu syilx iʔ kʷu ͝ sukʷnaqinx kʷu cnqilxʷcən ta nsyilxcən uɬ way t̕əsxʷuy uɬ ta mnimɬtət kə ck̕ɬqixʷstm uɬ kə ctiɬstm, uɬ niʕip kə ck’ʷulmstm iʔ nsyilxcən aʔ nqilxʷcntət.”

“We, the Syilx Okanagan Peoples have spoken our nsyilxcən language since time immemorial and we are responsible for the protection, revitalization and advancement of our nsyilxcən language.”    – excerpt from the Syilx Okanagan Language Declaration

Over the last year, speakers have developed the Language Declaration as an expression of Syilx legal principles that stand as a valuable instrument to be able to advocate for the importance of our language. Our language gives us this right and responsibility to be here. Our Elders spoke in nsyilxcen to the importance of the signing of this historic Declaration. Elder and fluent language speaker Pauline Archacan also talked about our rights and the significance of the Declaration and how she was fully satisfied with the wording in the Declaration.

Speaking to the importance of the Declaration Chief Byron Louis stated, “That this is the most significant document I have ever signed.”

After the signing took place, Grand Chief Stewart Phillip said “this is history, incredibly significant. This is an international standard of nationhood. Forty-five years ago, the majority of our people were fluent, sadly that’s not the case anymore. This Declaration is a public expression of intent to stay together. This Declaration contains our laws on how we care take our culture and everything that represents. Without the language it’s impossible to undertake these tasks. It’s at the core of our being, there’s no question. We’ve been encouraged by our Elders to revive our language and today we made this commitment.”

The work to develop this Declaration took a long time, this was a very significant day. We want to acknowledge all those who worked on this Declaration and through this work we honour our Elders and those who have kept our language alive.

Syilx Okanagan Language Declaration

For more information on the Syilx Okanagan Language Declaration: www.syilx.org/about-us/syilx-nation/4918-2/

Photo Gallery of Syilx Okanagan Language Declaration Signing

saʔtikn (Manning Park), Syilx Territory: The Okanagan Nation Alliance (ONA) are proud to announce that our Annual General Assembly (AGA) will take place from July 17-19, 2018. This event provides Syilx people with the opportunity to gather as a Nation, to celebrate the many successes that have taken place for our people over the last year, and reflect on the challenges that we continue to face. This year the Upper Similkameen Indian Band (USIB) in co-operation with the Lower Similkameen Indian Band (LSIB) are hosting the event at saʔtikn (Manning Park).

Grand Chief Stewart Phillip states that “Last year, my message was that we could not depend on the courts or governments; that we could only depend on each other. Fortunately, that message has resonated throughout the Nation as we continue to cherish and protect our lands, and to safeguard the well-being and quality of life of our people. Positive change requires commitment, persistence and courage. Together, we will realize the great potential of the Syilx Okanagan Nation.”

A central part of this year’s AGA will include the launch of the recent publication “Take The Indian Out of the Child: Okanagan Syilx Experiences in the Violent and Forced Assimilation of Indian Residential Schools.” This publication, along with the many presentations, illustrate how truly tenacious and resilient Syilx peoples have collectively been and continue to be through some of the most difficult times in our history. The official launch of the publication will take place at 2:30 pm at the Alpine Room at the Manning Park Resort.  Other activities will include presentations from community members and representative’s across the Nation, including Dr. Jeannette Armstrong, George Saddleman, and the Wellness and Natural Resource Committees.

Aligned with AGA, the annual Youth Leadership Gathering is also taking place, providing Syilx youth from across the territory with the opportunity gather, and engage in on-the-land based activities.

Full agenda of the event:

www.syilx.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/AGA-2018-Agenda-1.pdf

The Okanagan Nation Alliance (ONA) was formed in 1981 as the inaugural First Nations government in the Okanagan, which represents the 8 member communities of the Okanagan Nation.

For further information please contact:

Grand Chief Stewart Phillip, ONA Chair
T: 1-250-490-5314

Tara Montgomery, ONA Communications Lead:
T: 1-250-707-0095 ext 120
E: tmontgomery@syilx.org

ONA AGA MEDIA RELEASE 2018

tkwəɬniwt (Westbank), Syilx Territory: The Okanagan Nation Alliance (ONA) is honored to announce the publication of “Take The Indian Out of the Child: Okanagan Syilx Experiences in the Violent and Forced Assimilation of Indian Residential Schools.” The official launch of the publication will take place on July 17, 2018, at 2:30 pm during the ONA’s Annual General Assembly at saʔtikn (Manning Park), BC.

This publication contains over 50 contributions, the majority of which are first-hand accounts from Syilx Indian Residential School (SIRS) survivors. The ONA’s Syilx Indian Residential School Committee (SIRS) guided the development of the publication. It is a testament to the strength of the Syilx people in surviving the horrendous experiences of Indian Residential Schools and the aftermath that followed.

This book was written so that Syilx people, today and for generations to come, will know the atrocities that occurred and how we survived. Learning through the past is an integral part of living well today, and lays the foundation for a healthy future. It also celebrates the fact that the Syilx people are here and are thriving. As such, it is a tribute to the former Indian residential school students who shared their stories – and is a memory of the many whose stories will never be able to be told, and is an historical and personal account of Truth telling. This is critically important to share so that families, communities, tribes, Nations of indigenous peoples all will continue a pathway forward. As stated by Denise Lecoy, Syilx community member, “we’re here in the name of hope, I wish you all healing and strength”.

It was created to educate all Canadians about the history of the Indian residential school system, the inhumane nature of its operations and its significant impacts on the Syilx Nation, which are felt today. Importantly, our people wanted to tell their own stories of their experience, not have it told for them.

“We have held hurt feelings and shameful stories in our hearts and minds for many years. They were secrets at one time, but now we are trying to make our communities aware of the crimes that were committed against us”, stated Hazel Squakin, Syilx elder and Indian Residential School Survivor.

This publication is a continued part of the ongoing commitment of the ONA’s Chiefs Executive Council to honor and support the survivors and their families. As part of the Nation’s Healing Strategy, this publication represents yet another step on the path toward healing, which over the last year has seen the unveiling of a Syilx Indian Residential School Monument and the hosting of the ‘Syilx Resiliency: A Day of Discussion on Healing’ Forum, which had Senator Murray Sinclair as the keynote.

ONA’s Syilx Indian Residential School Committee is comprised of representatives from all seven member communities, many of whom are Indian Residential School survivors. This Committee is committed to telling the truth and their stories, developing and implementing healing strategies throughout the Nation, and rebuilding their family systems. This group is highly dedicated, committed, and has provided invaluable direction to ONA staff on numerous projects. The Okanagan Nation Alliance (ONA) was formed in 1981 as the inaugural First Nations government in the Okanagan.

For further information please contact:
Jennifer Lewis, ONA Wellness Manager
T: 1-250-826-7844
E: wellness.manager@syilx.org

MEDIA RELEASE- SIRS Publication Announcement

snpíntktn (Penticton), Syilx Territory: On July 3, 2018, the Okanagan Nation Alliance (ONA) hosted the ‘Syilx Resiliency: A Day of Discussion on Healing’ Forum. This gathering is as part of the ongoing commitment of the ONA’s Chiefs Executive Council to support and honor the Syilx Indian Residential School (SIRS) Committee, as well as further dialogue and action in regards to Syilx peoples resiliency in the face of the Indian Residential School experience. This event is demonstrative of how the tenacity of Syilx peoples calls upon the need to make more people aware of the IRS history.

A number of topics were discussed including the development of a Syilx Indian Residential School Healing Strategy, Reconciliation with Our Allies, and personal strategies on healing and wellness. Senator Murray Sinclair was the keynote speaker, and is an indigenous lawyer and politician who served as Chairman of the Indian Residential Schools Truth and Reconciliation Commission from 2009 to 2015.

Senator Murray Sinclair stated that “We need to find a way to tell these stories and cause no further harm. Survivors must realize that it’s not only about us, it’s about our children.”

It is important to recognize that long before the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, Syilx Indian Residential school survivors determination brought us to this day. They were committed to rebuilding their family systems, lobbying governments for redress of this dark era in Canadian history and were always guiding and advocating for healing strategies for the people. The current Syilx Indian Residential School Committee provided the direction to keep this work moving forward, they wanted Senator Murray Sinclair to come and speak to the Nation, they wanted discussed how Syilx Allies can walk with us in reconciliation between all people. However, most importantly it is a forum to create further awareness and a reminder to everyone how resilient Syilx Peoples truly are and how we can take care of one another and those who are experiencing hurt and trauma attributed to our people’s colonization and specifically intergenerational impacts of Indian Residential Schools. Eric Mitchell, Syilx Indian Residential School survivor further stated that: “For our Nation this is a very important kind of gathering that needs to happen more and more. In terms of learning to heal ourselves and heal our families and ultimately our Nation.”

This work will continue to move forward with a forthcoming publication of the Syilx Indian Residential School experience. The launch of this publication will take place at the ONA Annual General Assembly, on July 17, 2018.

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The Okanagan Nation Alliance (ONA) was formed in 1981 as the inaugural First Nations government in the Okanagan, which represents the 8 member communities of the Okanagan Nation.

For further information please contact:

Jennifer Lewis, Wellness Manager, ONA

T: 1-250-707-0095 ext. 151 C: 1-250-826-7844 E: Wellness.Manager@syilx.org

MEDIA RELEASE- Syilx Resiliency

tkwəɬniwt (Westbank), Syilx Territory: The ONA congratulates Syilx youth, Cole Cassidy, as the artist of the 2018 Okanagan Nation Salmon Feast logo. Every year the Okanagan Nation Alliance (ONA) has a Nation community member create an original design to represent the annual Okanagan Nation Salmon Feast. This year, his artwork, titled “Under the Morning Light” will become part of an ongoing collection of unique representations that illustrate our Nation members’ connection to and the general importance of the Salmon Feast. To see a gallery of all the commissioned artwork to date please visit: www.syilx.org/events/okanagan-nation-salmon-feast/

Cassidy shares that “Since I can remember I have always been drawing, if you ask anyone they will say I’m always drawing something. I also like working with other mediums like digital and clay. I like creating my own characters for comics that I make. My creativity and natural skills for sketching make art very relaxing and enjoyable for me. My family has and continues to support me and my journey in the arts.”

Cole Cassidy is a 14-year old who resides in West Kelowna and is at his last year at Glen Rosa Middle School. His parents are Shayla Lawrence and David Cassidy, and grandparents Kathy Lawrence, Donna and Tony Cassidy. His great-grandparents are the late Eva and William Lawrence.

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The Okanagan Nation Alliance (ONA) was formed in 1981 as the inaugural First Nations government in the Okanagan, which represents the 8 member communities of the Okanagan Nation. The Salmon Feast honours the sacredness of the river at sx̌ʷəx̌ʷnitkʷ (Okanagan Falls), which is a culturally significant site for the Syilx (Okanagan) People, and an important traditional fishing camp, gathering place and trading site.

For further information please contact:

Tara Montgomery, ONA Communications Lead

T: 1-250-707-0095 ext. 120

E: tmontgomery@syilx.org

(Unceded Coast Salish Territory/Vancouver, BC: May 23, 2018): Late last week, the three Indigenous Nations – the rightful title and rights holders of the Upper Columbia Basin: the Ktunaxa Nation, Secwepemc Nation and Syilx Okanagan Nation – were told by the Government of Canada that they would be excluded from direct participation in the re-negotiation of the Columbia River Treaty (“CRT”). The CRT is the largest international water storage agreement between Canada and the United States. The three Indigenous Nations are united in their approach to the re-negotiation of the Treaty and are shocked that Global Affairs Canada would unilaterally forgo an important opportunity for Prime Minister Trudeau and his Liberal government to demonstrate his commitment to rights recognition and meaningful reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples of Canada.

The CRT holds back 15.5 million acres/feet of water every year for flood control and power generation with an estimated annual value of $3 billion USD. The CRT has had massive impacts on the Territory of the three Nations including; the desecration of sacred, village and burial sites; the loss of fish populations and harvest areas, and; the turning of a vibrant river into industrial water storage reservoirs. All residents of the Columbia River Basin continue to live with the devastating impacts of the CRT and its destructive legacy. Indigenous Nations have been excluded since 1964 when the CRT was ratified and are now being told that they will continue to be marginalized and shut out of decisions directly affecting their title and rights. This decision is blatantly inconsistent with the Government’s commitments to advance reconciliation.

Since July 2017, the Government of Canada has continuously highlighted its commitment to “achieving reconciliation with Indigenous peoples through a renewed, nation-to-nation, government-to-government, and Inuit-Crown relationship based on recognition of rights, respect, co-operation, and partnership as the foundation of transformative change” as expressed in the Federal Government’s Ten Reconciliation Principles statement. This commitment was further solidified by the Prime Minister’s speech made in the House of Commons of February 14, 2018 in relation to the implementation of the UN Declaration of the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (“UNDRIP”). Since 2011, the three Nations have been participating in good faith in the CRT renewal process and over the last few years we have had the full intention of holding the Trudeau government true to their commitment of reconciliation through respecting the self-determination and aspirations of the Ktunaxa, Secwepemc, and Syilx Okanagan Nations.

The Columbia River Treaty exclusion is amongst the latest of political disappointments experienced by Indigenous Peoples, including the continued Liberal support for the Kinder Morgan Pipeline. Ktunaxa, Secwepemc, and Syilx Okanagan leadership are expressing their collective outrage by providing the following comments:

Kathryn Teneese, Chairperson of the Ktunaxa Nation Council has stated, “Our Nation has suffered profound losses to our culture and way of life as a result of the Columbia River Treaty.” Teneese concluded her remarks by stating, “We have been working very closely with the Syilx Okanagan, Secwepemc, Canada and BC to chart a new future for the CRT that creates positive outcomes for Indigenous Nations, the region, BC and Canada. We have to find a comprehensive and effective means to fully participate in the negotiations process in order to achieve these positive outcomes.”

Kukpi7 Wayne Christian, Chair of the Shuswap Nation Tribal Council has stated that, “The Secwepemc Nation has worked collaboratively with Canada on Columbia River Treaty matters to date. This exclusion represents another of Prime Minister Trudeau’s lies to the world about reconciliation.” Kukpi7 Christian concluded by stating that, “The Secwepemc Nation must be involved in all decisions about Secwepemc Territory.”

Grand Chief Stewart Phillip, Chair of the Syilx Okanagan Nation has stated that, “This completely unexpected and shocking unilateral decision by Minister Freeland to exclude Indigenous Nations is an act of absolute treachery. Canada has begun to replicate the aggressively destructive behaviour of President Trump against Indigenous Nations.” Grand Chief Phillip concluded by stating that, “This is a fundamental betrayal of our three Nations’ Indigenous Rights; it undermines recognition and threatens the reconciliation path that Prime Minister Trudeau has so boldly championed. I’m genuinely afraid for Canada’s future economic stability if Canada lacks the courage to stand by its convictions and can so easily disregard its commitments to Indigenous Peoples.”

As next steps, the three Nations will be exploring all options available to them in response to Canada’s decision to exclude them from the re-negotiation of the Columbia River Treaty with the United States.

For Media Inquiries:

Grand Chief Stewart Phillip Okanagan Nation Alliance
(250) 490-5314

Kukpi7 Wayne Christian
Shuswap Nation Tribal Council
(250) 503-7072

Jesse Nicholas
Ktunaxa Nation Council
(250) 342-6301

Unceded Syilx Territory/Westbank, BC: The Chiefs of the Syilx Okanagan Nation welcome yesterday’s announcement establishing a $30 million fund targeted towards Mental Wellness. The much-anticipated funding agreement is a result of collaboration between the Province, Canada and the First Nations Health Council and will provide the much-needed resources to provide resources needed to address mental wellness issues at the community-level. The funding announcement is also an important step towards improving health outcomes for Indigenous Peoples, including Syilx Peoples. The funding announcement comes at a critical time where Syilx families and communities continue to battle the impacts of mental health and addictions-related issues on a daily basis.

For countless generations, Indigenous health has been connected to the health and well-being of our lands. The Syilx Okanagan Chiefs have been working at every level of advocacy to bring mental health and addictions issues to the forefront and welcomes this funding commitment that will hopefully shed light on these critical issues. The funding agreement also outlines priorities to improve structuring at the local, regional, and provincial levels aimed at ensuring that BC First Nations are full partners in the planning, design, funding in delivery of mental health and substance use services. This work will require effective partnerships with the Ministry of Child and Family Development, Interior Health and other organizations recognizing and respecting the need for Syilx-specific approaches to be fully developed and implemented.

OKIB Councillor Allan Louis, FNHC Interior Representative has stated that, “The Syilx Okanagan Nation’s health and well-being is directly tied to the health of our lands. The Syilx Okanagan Nation has a long tradition of healing practices and approaches and the Nation is best positioned to design approaches aimed at improving the mental wellness outcomes for Syilx Peoples.”

Grand Chief Stewart Phillip of the Syilx Okanagan Nation has stated that, “For years, we have advocated at every level for the funding necessary to initiate a Nation-coordinated approach to provide mental wellness services to our families and communities.” Grand Chief Phillip concluded by stating, “Yesterday’s announcement confirms that our years of advocacy has finally been heard.”

Media Inquiries:
Jennifer Lewis, Wellness Manager
Phone: at (250) 826-7844
E-mail: Wellness.Manager@syilx.org

MEDIA RELEASE- 2018 May 18 – Syilx Chiefs Welcomes Mental Wellness Funding Announcement

tkwəɬniwt (Westbank), Syilx Territory: From May 10-13, 2018, the Okanagan Nation Alliance (ONA) will celebrate the 10th Annual Spirit of Syilx Youth Unity Run., This annual event is an innovative approach to raising awareness and education with all participants and the public on issues of suicide and violence that continue to confront Syilx communities. The Run exceeds these initial goals and continues to be a proven prevention platform to de-normalize violence, while creating a healing space for Syilx youth.

It addresses these issues by encouraging a healthy lifestyle and living through action, and physical exercise. Syilx youth are also provided the opportunity to experience being out on their territory together as Nation. As such this event addresses a broad range of community and societal issues from suicide and violence, to cultural reconnection with nationhood and the land. Overall, by utilizing a wide range of tools, from physical activity, connection to the territory and implementation of the Syilx teachings the Run enables participants to cultivate a greater sense of well-being.

“Over the last ten years, the Unity Run has evolved to provide a dynamic means of addressing issues of suicide and violence, while enabling an opportunity for greater awareness of cultural identity and healing to take place. A growing body of research shines a light on how such connections to community and land cannot only prevent but to also restore physical, mental and spiritual well-being of our youth. These best practices of gathering and engaging on the territory are resonate to our People as they have always been an intrinsic part of Syilx life. Any participant that has contributed to the Run over the last ten years can attest to these lasting experiences” states Jennifer Houde, Wellness Manager, ONA.

This year the Unity Run will begin at Blanket Creek Provincial Park, heading south to Nakusp and Fauquier, on to Cherryville and finishing at Polson Park in Vernon at 2:30 on May 13. In total, the Run will go through 309 km of the Syilx Territory. There will be a multitude of participants including Syilx youth, elders, leaders, community members and a range of other participants that wish to contribute to the event.

“Our 10th year of hosting the Unity Run is a testament to the hard work and dedication of all our member communities that come together to celebrate and hold up our Youth. This Run creates new experiences that instil wellness and pride in our culture and nsyilxcen language for generations to come. Our Youth are out on the land with our elders, cultural knowledge keepers, meeting other youth from across the Territory and building and fostering strength in each other and our Nation” states Grand Chief Stewart Phillip, ONA Chairman.

For additional information please contact:

Jennifer Houde, ONA CFYH Service Manager

Cell: 250-826-7844

Email: jhoude@syilx.org

tkwəɬniwt (Westbank), Syilx Territory: On April 10, 2018, the Okanagan Nation Alliance, in collaboration with the Province of British Columbia and the Okanagan Basin Water Board (OBWB) announced that $1.45 million has been secured to enhance flood mapping for the Okanagan Valley.

The funds received will go towards LiDAR* and digital aerial imagery acquisition for the entire Okanagan Valley watershed, which will greatly assist all partners to facilitate effective and dynamic flood mapping and risk assessments. Following the dramatic flooding throughout Syilx territory in 2017 that threatened the safety and wellbeing of multiple communities throughout the Nation, there is a pressing need to undertake risk assessments and flood mapping, and make the Okanagan more resilient to extreme precipitation.

Grand Chief Stewart Phillip, Okanagan Nation Alliance Chair states “The Okanagan Nation affirms our constitutional rights and responsibilities related to our siwlɬkʷ (water). This announcement comes at a critical point in our shared history when we have the culmination of multiple challenges, including those posed by climate change, that threaten the health and function of siwlɬkʷ systems in the Okanagan. We must step away from old approaches and practices and to come together in partnership to commit to the sustainability of siwlɬkʷ and the safety of everyone who inhabits Syilx territory”.

This project will provide information for the entire watershed, allowing for more strategic planning and risk assessment to occur. By managing our land responsibly today, we entrust our future generations to a healthy land base and clean siwlɬkʷ. The project will be coordinated by all three parties, with funds being managed by the OBWB.

Chief Chad Eneas, Penticton Indian Band, reiterates “siwlɬkʷis one of our most sacred responsibilities, to protect and care for.  This partnership is another small step that demonstrates an integrated approach to fully understanding all aspects of the siwlɬkʷ cycle. We need to respect siwlɬkʷ and comprehend the impacts development has had on the floodplain, specifically over the last 100 years. This requires the research and data to highlight and responsibly plan for climate change.”

In July 2014, the Okanagan Nation Alliance endorsed the Syilx Water Declaration. The Syilx Water Declaration serves as a living document on our relations and values to water. For more information visit: www.syilx.org/about-us/syilx-nation/water-declaration/

* LiDAR stands for Light Detection and Ranging and is a remote imaging method that uses light in the form of a pulsed laser to measure ranges (variable distances) to generate precise, three-dimensional information about the shape of the Earth and its surface characteristics.

QUESTION & ANSWER

Q: What is LiDAR? Why has this project been initiated?

A: LIDAR stands for Light Detection and Ranging and is a remote imaging method that uses light in the form of a pulsed laser to measure ranges (variable distances) to generate precise, three-dimensional information about the shape of the Earth and its surface characteristics. Following the dramatic flooding throughout Syilx territory in 2017, there is a need to undertake risk assessments and flood mapping, and make the Okanagan more resilient to extreme precipitation. LiDAR and digital aerial imagery for the Okanagan watershed will greatly assist all parties to facilitate flood mapping and risk assessments. All information gathered will be made available to Okanagan Nation communities to further enhance the capacity for emergency planning and community development.

Q: Who are all the parties involved?

A: The main partners on this project include the Okanagan Nation Alliance, the Okanagan Basin Water Board (OBWB), the Province of BC’s Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General, and GeoBC (a branch within the Ministry of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development). The Okanagan Basin Water Board (OBWB) is a local government watershed agency, structured as a partnership of the Regional District of North Okanagan, the Regional District of Central Okanagan, and the Regional District of Okanagan‐Similkameen.

Q: What will these funds be used to accomplish?

A: The project will obtain LiDAR and produce orthoimagery for the entire watershed, and has structured this RFP to accommodate mapping requirements, the timing of funding approvals, and environmental constraints (the need for low water, snow free and smoke free conditions, among others). These funds will be administered by the OBWB. All Nation member communities will have access to the technical information and knowledge from these studies, enabling them to create more resilient and dynamic watershed management plans.

Q: Why is this project significant?

A: This project is a continuance of the collaborative work being carried out by ONA to address water-based issues in the territory, that includes the Environmental Flow Needs project: https://syilx.org/projects/environmental-flow-needs-efn/ . Building on the success of this work the LiDAR project is the first of its kind based on the fact that all partners came together, rather than each doing their own work. This has allowed for the review and administration process to be rapidly expedited, providing all parties with valuable information in a timely manner.

For further information please contact:
Lisa Wilson, ONA Natural Resource Department Manager
T: 1-250-707-0095 ext. 221 E: nrmanager@syilx.org
www.okanagannation.com

tkwəɬniwt (Westbank), Syilx Territory: On March 22, 2018, as part of World Water Day, the Okanagan Nation Alliance (ONA) hosted our 4^th siwɬkʷ (Water) Forum. This event brought together 85 people, including Syilx leadership, elders, traditional knowledge keepers and community members, alongside regional and provincial government, NGO representatives and academics to connect out on the land, share perspective and build a collective siwɬkʷ (water) consciousness. The Okanagan Basin Water Board and BC Ministry of Forest, Lands, and Natural Resource Operations, both ONA partners on the Environmental Flow Needs project were present, continuing to develop and build on working relationships necessary for better water management within the Territory. Participants engaged in dialogue on drinking water protection, wetlands, and other important issues to uptake all our responsibilities to manage water responsibly.

The tour began with a Syilx Water Ceremony on nx̌ʷaqʷaʔstn (Mission Creek). Attendees then toured the watershed with Syilx elder’s and knowledge holders who shared place names, protocols, and the Syilx natural laws regarding ukʷnakinx (Okanagan) watershed. These Syilx guides exhibited how water centric planning and management is a long-standing concept that Syilx people continue to practice as fundamental guiding principles.

Other stops on the tour included the kł cp̓əlk̓ stim̓ Hatchery, Penticton Oxbows Restoration site, and significant Syilx siwɬkʷ (water) places. These visits allowed for a deeper conversation to take place in regards to the need for continuing to develop water partnerships in the region. “When I think of how important Water is for all living beings in balance and harmony with the natural world, I think of the original agreement of Creation.  We as indigenous Peoples know and understand how we are inter-dependent on clean, safe, drinking water which was put here for us by the Creator.  It is all of our responsibility to be educated about the sacredness of Water,” stated Chief Chad Eneas, Penticton Indian Band .

The Syilx Nation envision a sustainable Territorial land, culture, and ways of life hundreds of years from now. By managing our land responsibly today, we entrust our future generations to a healthy land base and clean waters.

ONA recognize World Water Day and all the efforts globally that provide a deeper recognition to the sacredness of our water, a key to the future of our shared survival. In July 2014, the Okanagan Nation Alliance endorsed the Syilx Water Declaration. The Syilx Water Declaration serves as a living document on our relations and values to water. As it states ““The Okanagan Nation has accepted the unique responsibility bestowed upon us by the Creator to serve for all time as protectors of the lands and waters in our territories, so that all living things return to us regenerated. When we take care of the land and water, the land and water takes care of us. This is our law.” For more information visit: www.syilx.org/about-us/syilx-nation/water-declaration/

For further information please contact:

Lisa Wilson, ONA Natural Resource Department Manager

T: 1-250-707-0095 ext. 221 E: nrmanager@syilx.org

Syilx Language House Association Year 3 Interim Report

(Syilx Territory: Westbank, BC) – Community members from the Syilx Okanagan Nation gathered at the Penticton Courthouse on Monday February 26, 2018 to rally against the systemic injustices exposed by the deaths of Colten Boushie and Tina Fontaine.

The deaths highlight how Canada’s legal system continues to fail Indigenous people. Earlier this month, an all-white jury acquitted a white Saskatchewan farmer of Colten Boushie’s murder. Colten Boushie was from the Red Pheasant Cree Nation. Almost two weeks later, a jury acquitted a Winnipeg man accused of killing 15-year old Tina Fontaine, a member of the Sagkeeng First Nation in Manitoba.

“We are here to stand with the families and communities who are hurting from continued brutality and injustice”, said the rally’s organizers. “More must be done to protect our brothers and sisters who continue to suffer from injustice and indignity.”

In response to Colten Boushie’s death, the federal government has promised to reform how juries are selected in Canada. The Syilx Okanagan Chiefs are calling on the Trudeau government to take the steps necessary to ensure that Indigenous people can have faith in the criminal justice system and to partner with First Nations in this important work.

Grand Chief Stewart Phillip, Chair of the Syilx Okanagan Nation, attended the rally to stand in solidarity with the Boushie and Fontaine families. He noted that criminal justice reform must be part of the Government of Canada’s recently announced Recognition and Implementation of Rights Framework (“Framework”). Grand Chief Stewart Phillip stated that, “True justice must not be delayed any further but felt by all our communities now if we are to advance our relationship, an opportunity we have always demanded, and the Prime Minister and his government now envision. There cannot be true reconciliation until our people are safe.”

Since the 1910 Sir Wilfred Laurier Memorial, the Syilx Okanagan Nation has been advocating for the recognition and implementation of Syilx Title and Rights. The Prime Minister’s announcement on the Framework was long overdue. Although the Syilx Okanagan Chiefs are concerned about the unrealistic timeline that has been set for developing the Framework, it is critical that First Nations be full partners in designing the Framework to ensure full implementation of Indigenous rights.

Chief Chad Eneas, Chair of the Syilx Okanagan Nation Natural Resources Council, noted that, “We have always governed ourselves. This is an opportunity for the federal government to finally recognize and support that fact.”

Grand Chief Stewart Phillip, concluded by stating that, “Words alone are not enough. Concrete outcomes need to be realized. Although it is premature to speculate on whether the Framework will be a historic breakthrough, the Syilx Okanagan Nation is ready to engage on the Framework at the highest level in order to ensure our Title and Rights are rightfully upheld and fully realized. With the 2018 federal budget announcement recently made, we expect that the long-term and overdue resources are properly allocated to support the activities and innovation necessary to build healthier and stronger communities resulting in safer environments for our children and families.”

The Syilx Okanagan Nation represents its member communities and is mandated to protect, advance and defend its collective Title and Rights. The Nation’s member communities include: Okanagan Indian Band, Upper Nicola Band, Westbank First Nation, Penticton Indian Band, Upper Similkameen Indian Band, Lower Similkameen Indian Band, and Osoyoos Indian Band.

For more information please contact:

Grand Chief Stewart Phillip, Okanagan Nation Alliance Chair

Tel: (250) 490-5314

Media Release -Syilx Okanagan Nation Calls for Justice Reform

Media Release – Seeking Our Snaqsilx Gathering

Westbank, Okanagan Territory: From February 5-6, 2017, Okanagan Nation Alliance’s (ONA) BRIDGE’s program, in Partnership with Ministry of Social Development and Social Innovation, and Okanagan Indian Band’s Pre-Employment Support team, are hosting a networking event at the Penticton Lakeside Resort, which brings Syilx youth and front line workers ( youth, social, education, employment, HR, Syilx organizations and industry) for a 2 day event that will connect youth with the various programs that can holistically support them in pursuing their educational and employment dreams.

This event has 54 Syilx youth from all Okanagan communities, 9 industry partners and 33 frontline staff all participating. The event includes engaging workshops, interactive panel discussions, cultural activities, inspirational Okanagan youth speakers, resource presentations and display tables from Bands, organizations and industry that want to connect with youth.

“The event is special because the youth have assisted in setting the agenda and identified the topics. And the opportunity to bring youth and those that provide the services within the community to have a dialogue about the gaps and barriers to services is a critical conversation that we hope will improve services and access for youth,” states Brenda Baptiste, ONA BRIDGES Program Manager.

Grand Chief Stewart Phillip, ONA Chairman applauds these efforts, stating that, “This event signifies the importance of these partnerships in ensuring our youth are successful. It exemplifies the progress being made by our Nation in addressing the gaps and barriers that have prevented our youth past and present in gainfully benefiting from employment and training programs and services that were meant to serve them”.

There are a number of barriers and challenges for youth to gain employment. This includes the number of different agencies and systems that youth are expected to find their way through. This event is an opportunity to hear from the youth what they see as the barriers and seek input from them about how to address these barriers.

“snaqsilx refers to all syilx people and their connection to one another, to their land, and all living things”.

Building Resources for Innovative Development, Growth and Economic Stability (BRIDGES) program is built upon the understanding that by creating a program that is rooted in culture, our youth will experience an increase in confidence and personal strength. This project is designed for youth ages 15-30 that may require assistance before accessing standard training programs and/or educational outlets.

For more information please contact:
Brenda Baptiste, BRIDGES Program Manager
T: 1.250.469.1791
E:PMBridges@syilx.org

Media Release – Seeking Our Snaqsilx Gathering

Westbank), Syilx Territory: The ONA has been taking action to reduce pressures on ki?lawna? and recover threatened populations. Most recently, in collaboration with ONA, Clayton Lamb at the University of Alberta Department of Biological Sciences, released the results of a new study that provides insight on the relationships between ki?lawna? and road density. The results of Lamb’s study provide a scientific foundation for access management and habitat securement for this iconic and culturally significant species in the Kettle Granby region. This information will support similar work in the North Cascades and other threatened populations in the BC Southern Interior.

“Decommissioning roads and securing core habitat and linkage areas is now known to have tangible effects on grizzly bear numbers, which is information that we can apply to support recovery across Syilx Territory and the Province,” states Lisa Wilson, ONA Natural Resource Manager.

For the Syilx people, ki?lawna? is a significant part of our laws and protocols. ki?lawna?, as are other species, is an important part of our creation stories to our people reminding us of our responsibilities to our tmuxlawx (land). The decline of the population demonstrates that the health and security of the landscape is in dire need of protection. For generations, habitat fragmentation, ecosystem degradation and a number of other factors have contributed to the decline of ki?lawna?.

The ONA has also hosted a number of meetings with neighboring First Nations, Conservation Northwest as part of a Joint Nation Grizzly Bear recovery initiative. The group’s main objective is to recover threatened populations of ki?lawna? within our Territories. ONA is excited to seeing the results of positive working partnerships raising the importance of this work to ensure ki?lawna is recovered.

“It is our duty and responsibility to protect and care for the lands that are inhabited by our relations. The Province of British Columbia, Government of Canada, as well as the State of Washington and the United States Government have a fiduciary obligation to protect the Grizzly Bear from potential extinction. The ONA is calling on them to act promptly and effectively to implement cooperative actions for the protection of ki?lawna?.” states Grand Chief Stewart Phillip.

For further info contact:
Lisa Wilson, ONA Natural Resources Manager
t: 1.250.707.0095 ext.221 e: nrmanager@syilx.org

MEDIA RELEASE – Grizzly Bear Reintroduction

From November 28-30, 2017, Okanagan Nation Alliance (ONA) and Penticton Indian Band (PIB) crews will be working together to install four PIT (Passive Integrated Transponders) arrays in the Penticton channel, just north of the former KVR bridge. These arrays are used to record the movement of any PIT tagged fish species that use the channel for habitat or migration. PIT tags are detected and logged as they pass through antennae arrays.  There are many arrays located throughout the Columbia River for tracking the movement and survival of tagged fish.

What are PIT tags: About the size of a grain of rice, these electronic, battery-free tags are similar to the tags installed in dogs and cats by veterinarians to track lost pets. Each tag contains a unique code. When a tag passes by an antenna’s electrical field, a transceiver detects and stores the unique PIT tag number and the time that the tagged fish passed through the field. PIT tags allow us to identify and track individual fish from their release as juveniles to their return as adults. Sockeye smolts are PIT tagged by ONA and community members from both Osoyoos Lake and the kł cp̓əlk̓ stim̓ Hatchery.

Where: The four PIT arrays are being installed within the 100m of channel north of the KVR abutments, south of Skaha Ford.

Safety – please refrain from interfering with any equipment and gear left on site

Why this is important/what are we learning: By monitoring the movement of PIT tagged fish, we can learn key information about species that use the Penticton channel:

• Run-timing and survival of sockeye smolts to the lower most hydro-dam (Bonneville Dam) in the Columbia River system
• Migratory timing, delays on the return, and smolt to adult ratios (total survival from smolt to return) from tagged fish that return as adult

Background/History: Construction of permanent flood control dams in the Canadian portion of the Okanagan Basin in the 1950’s has blocked anadromous salmon from a significant portion of their historical range, which includes q̓awst’ik’^wt (Skaha Lake) and kłusxənitk^w (Okanagan Lake). In 1999, the Okanagan Nation Alliance (ONA) and Colville Confederated Tribes (CCT) initiated a research program, funded by Bonneville Power Administration, to evaluate the feasibility of reintroducing sockeye salmon into their historical range. A 3-year risk assessment of Sockeye reintroduction was carried out by the Canadian Okanagan Basin Technical Working Group (COBTWG), whose participants include the Okanagan Nation Alliance, Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO), and the BC Ministry of Forests, Lands, and Natural Resource Operations (FLNRO). The risk assessment, completed in April 2003, concluded that the reintroduction of sockeye into Skaha Lake posed little risk to existing Okanagan Sockeye and resident Skaha Lake Kokanee populations.

The decision was made to introduce hatchery-reared sockeye fry into Skaha Lake as it posed little risk and would allow for in-lake monitoring of food web response. The COBTWG worked to develop and approve a 12-year framework for the Experimental Reintroduction of Sockeye Salmon into Skaha Lake: Proposed Implementation, Monitoring and Evaluation Plan (Wright and Smith 2003), which outlines the project rationale, method of reintroduction, and a series of performance measures to address production, growth and survival of sockeye and kokanee. The 12-Year, adaptive management experiment was designed to be reversible if monitoring demonstrates significant negative impacts to either the existing Osoyoos Sockeye or Skaha Lake Kokanee populations.

Typically, hatchery-raised, thermal marked fry produced are released into Penticton Channel upstream of Skaha Lake. In 2014, a record number of 2.5 million eggs were collected from the Okanagan stock, and a significant number of eggs were produced from natural Sockeye spawning in the Penticton Channel upstream of Skaha Lake. Sockeye fry spend one year in Skaha and Osoyoos lakes before migrating to the ocean. The migration typically begins in early spring. Understanding migration patterns and biological traits of sockeye smolts from both lakes is necessary for monitoring and evaluating the Skaha Lake Sockeye Reintroduction Program. An important objective is to determine the migration timing, size, and age structure of wild and hatchery-origin sockeye smolts as they migrate through Osoyoos Lake.

Since 2012, ONA has been implanting Sockeye smolts with uniquely coded PIT tags. PIT tags can be detected and logged as they pass through antennae arrays located throughout the Columbia River. From these detections, we are able to estimate smolt travel time and overall survival as Sockeye migrate to the Pacific Ocean. Ideally, a large number of PIT tagged Sockeye will return as adults and be detected in the arrays as they migrate back to the Okanagan to spawn.

In partnership with Penticton Indian Band.

Courtesy of the Wilderness Committee

VANCOUVER – The Wilderness Committee is awarding the 2017 Eugene Rogers Environmental Award to Grand Chief Stewart Phillip and Joan Phillip at the Wilderness Committee’s Annual Open House.

They were chosen for their decades of commitment to preserving and protecting lands, waters and the environment for future generations. They have stood up against damaging industrial development such as the Site C dam, Kinder Morgan pipeline, Ajax open-pit copper mine and the salmon farm industry, to name a few.

“Stewart and Joan are two of the hardest working environmental activists that I have ever met,” said Joe Foy, Wilderness Committee National Campaign Director. “They are constantly attending gatherings, meetings, and rallies, visiting communities and speaking to the public and the media on the environmental issues of our time. Stewart and Joan have provided invaluable direction and support to those working to protect BC from ill-conceived industrial projects.”

This year is the 25th anniversary of the award. The Wilderness Committee presents the Eugene Rogers Environmental Award each year to citizens who have gone above and beyond in their efforts to protect the environment and advocate for a better society. The award comes with a $1,000 dollar prize.

Grand Chief Stewart Phillip is an Okanagan Indigenous leader who has served as president of the Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs since 1998. Joan Phillip is an elected member of the Penticton Indian Band Council and a lifelong advocate for Indigenous rights. They have been married for over 30 years.

Grand Chief Stewart Phillip and Joan Phillip will received the award on November 25, 2017, at the open house starting at 3 p.m. at 46 East 6th Ave.

For more information, please contact:
Joe Foy | National Campaign Director,  Wilderness Committee
(604) 880-2580, joe@wildernesscommittee.org