kł cp’elk’ stim’

This ceremonial release of Okanagan Sockeye fry takes place by members of the Syilx Okanagan Nation and over 430 students from local schools so that kł cp̓əlk̓ stim̓ (cause to come back) will continue. These fry have been raised as part of Okanagan Nation Alliance’s (ONA) Fish in Schools Program along with fry from the hatchery. ntyitix (salmon) is central to the Syilx Okanagan peoples creation stories and through our captikwl (oral history), passed down through generations; it is our responsibility to be stewards of our lands and waters. These ceremonies with our language, songs and prayers are an integral part of the work that we continue, to ensure our efforts to revitalize our culture. For thousands of years these ceremonies and customs have been brought forward for our children.

Everyone is welcome to attend and participate. Due to logistics, we ask that all large groups please contact the organizer prior to attending.

May 2, 2024 – 10: 00 am at Shingle Creek Fry Release Location (by Super Save Gas Penticton)

May 7, 2024 – 10: 00 am at Lower Vernon Creek Fry Release Location (by Marshall Fields Dog Park)

May 8, 2024 – 10:00 am at Mission Creek Fry Release Location (by Mission Creek Dog Park)

May 9, 2024 – 10:00 am at Six Mile Creek Fry Release Location (by OKIB Fire Hall)

May 13, 2024 – 10:00 am at Castlegar Fry Release Location (Millennium Park)

May 13, 2024 – 2:00 pm at Slocan Fry Release Location

May 14, 2024 – 10:00 am at Revelstoke Fry Release Location

May 22, 2024 – 10:00 am at Spallumcheen River Release Location (Cherryville Recreation Site)

Date and Time TBC at OK Falls Release Location (Just past sx̌ʷəx̌ʷnitkʷ OK Falls Park)

Date and Time TBC at Salmon River Release Location (Tim’s By The River Campsite)

Please Note: Locations may not be exact but ONA Signage and vehicles will be onsite to assist.