The Mission Creek Restoration Initiative (MCRI) is a multi-stakeholder partnership formed in 2008 to address declining fish stocks and restore natural function to the lower reaches of Mission Creek, located in Kelowna, BC.

Phase I restoration began in 2015-2016 in a stretch of Mission Creek downstream of Casorso Road, where 540 m of the southern dike trail was setback. This setback resulted in 18,000 m² floodplain re-engagement and side channel reconnection. In addition, habitat features were installed and four notch pools were excavated in left bank to re-meander the stream. Adaptive management occurred in 2018 to improve side channel flow patterns and remove accumulated sediment. In 2019, boulder clusters in two different formations were installed to direct flow into meander notch 2 and to increase habitat complexity.

Post-construction monitoring of fish habitat and site use has been conducted annually since 2016 to document effectiveness and inform adaptive management.

Read the report here: ONA_MCRI Effectiveness Monitoring 2019 FINAL

ONA is happy to continue working with the MCRI Steering Committee to bring back the health of Mission Creek.  Many thanks to the Steering Committee:

• BC Ministry of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development
• Central Okanagan Land Trust
• City of Kelowna
• Fisheries and Oceans Canada
• Friends of Mission Creek
• Okanagan Nation Alliance
• Regional District of Central Okanagan
• Westbank First Nation

The Okanagan Nation Alliance looks forward to continuing to document the successes and challenges of these projects as part of the larger vision of Okanagan Nation Elders in healing the watershed and kł cp̓əlk stim̓ – ’cause to come back’.

Read the fact sheet here: River Guardian Fact Sheet

Calling all Syilx Okanagan Nation Member 2020 graduates!

If you are graduating or know someone who is graduating please complete the google form: https://forms.gle/gRZW6ey3LiJknQZXA

The Okanagan Nation Alliance would like to recognize and acknowledge all Syilx Okanagan Nation members who are graduating this year. If you are graduating or know someone who is graduating please complete the form.

UPDATE: ONA RESPONSE TO COVID-19

tkwəɬniwt (Westbank), Syilx Okanagan Territory: On March 18, 2020, as of today, ONA offices are only open for staff. Over the next few days, ONA staff will be transitioning to working from home as much as possible to mitigate risks and to ensure we do our part in keeping Nation members and partners safe. During this time, we remain committed to fulfilling our responsibilities to our Syilx Okanagan Nation families and communities. We will continue to be available by phone, email, or social media. The following staff may be contacted if you have any questions:

• Pauline Terbasket, Executive Director – 250-878-6242
• Jennifer Lewis, Wellness Manager – 250-826-7844
• Howie Wright, Fisheries Program Manager – 250-718-5215
• Cailyn Glasser, Natural Resources Operations Biologist – 250-469-1595
• Carol Roberts, Financial Administrator – 250-707-0095 ext. 207
• Charlotte Armstrong, Executive Assistant – 250-707-0095 ext. 208
• Tara Montgomery, Communications Lead – 250-862-6866

tkwəɬniwt (Westbank), Syilx Territory:     The Syilx Okanagan Nation stands in solidarity with the Hereditary Chiefs of the Wet’suwet’en in their meetings with the federal and provincial governments on Wet’suwet’en Territory.

In the wake of provincial legislation applying the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) to BC laws and the federal government’s commitment to introduce similar federal legislation, the Wet’suwet’en crisis shines a national light on the on-going issue of Title and Rights recognition in British Columbia. This long-standing issue has remained largely unresolved despite the 1997 Delgamuukw decision where the Supreme Court of Canada affirmed that Wet’suwet’en Title and Rights have never been extinguished.

The Syilx Okanagan Nation calls on the provincial and federal governments to work in good faith with the Wet’suwet’en Hereditary Chiefs, charting a pathway forward that both respects Wet’suwet’en Title and Rights and full and meaningful implementation of UNDRIP. Aspirational words about reconciliation are not enough. What is required is full respect and recognition of Indigenous laws, governance, and title and rights, not only for the Wet’suwet’en, but for all Indigenous Nations.

Grand Chief Dr. Stewart Phillip, Chair for the Syilx Okanagan Nation has stated that, “Canada and BC must move beyond political mumbling and empty rhetoric and immediately take action to honor the invitation of the Wet’suwet’en Hereditary Chiefs.to meet face-to-face. Furthermore the RCMP occupation force must immediately leave Wet’suwet’en Territory and Coastal Gas Link must agree to reroute the pipeline.” He further stated that, “It is time for Prime Minister Trudeau and Premier John Horgan to, ‘walk the walk‘”.

Media Inquiries:

Grand Chief Dr. Stewart Phillip, ONA Chair

T: 250-490-5314

The Okanagan Nation Alliance is proud to announce our new book, qʷʕay snk̓lip Blue Coyote by Billie Kruger, which will be launched at the Okanagan Nation Wellness Gathering November 20, 2019. Billie is an Okanagan Nation interdisciplinary artist from the Okanagan Indian Band. She studied at the En’owkin Center and Paul Creek Language Association and is a beginner speaker of the nsyilxcәn language. Billie has created many works: sewing, beading, and traditional art practice. She has a strong connection to the land and her ancestors to which she attributes her success as an artist.

The book is a contemporary Syilx captikwł about snk̓lip, a gorgeous being created by k̓ʷəlncutn to rid the world of nʔaɬnaʔsqilxʷtn in preparation for the sqilxw that would come. snk̓lip was made to be courageous, strong, and intelligent and was gifted with special powers to aid him in transforming the nʔaɬnaʔsqilxʷtn. snk̓lip was confident in his abilities to carry out this important job, sometimes a little too confident. Eventually, after battling countless nʔaɬnaʔsqilxʷtn so bravely, the burden of the enormous responsibility began to ware on snk̓lip. He became exhausted and his anxiety grew with each battle. snk̓lip fell into a deep depression and was filled with shame, hate and anger towards himself. Even the support of his friends and family could not help him, only snk̓lip could help himself. Through ceremony, connecting to the land, and sharing his story could snk̓lip begin to heal and reclaim his power.

The Okanagan Nation Alliance is committed to ensuring that our captikwł, our nsyilxcən language, and our Syilx teachings continue to shape our path forward. This book was created as a resource in hopes that it will create a greater awareness of mental health issues while providing an opportunity for greater mindfulness of the importance cultural identity and community play in the well-being of First Nations. A growing body of research shines a light on how such connections to community and land cannot only prevent, but also restore physical, mental and spiritual well-being of our people. These cultural practices of connecting to our land have always been an intrinsic part of Syilx life.

Brittany Mullin

Brittany has completed her Bachelor of Dental Science at UBC Vancouver, and is setting her sights on the next academic endeavor. In September 2019 Brittany will begin a Master’s in Public Health program at The University of Victoria. She wishes to broaden her lens and work more with communities, helping those who may be missed by the system, or do not fit within the framework of the current system. Her long term goals include working to develop a health care system that meets the needs of all Canadians by working with Communities, health authorities, and partaking in research, and advocacy.

“Through my bachelor’s degree experience and my experience with the First Nations Health Authority at the International Indigenous Allied Health Conference, I came to realize the true scope of the health crisis amongst our indigenous populations. They are often unable to access care due to a lack of services in their region, or through unwillingness to access current service due to fear of discrimination and safety. I plan to use my professional designation as my platform by establishing an independent mobile hygienic clinic to work with rural and remote Indigenous communities, offering them oral hygiene services and support that are culturally safe. This will benefit both individuals, and communities but I want to create change on a larger scale still.”

Keianna James

Keianna is a member of the Osoyoos Indian Band, and current student at Thompson River University. She has chosen a path of passion exploring her interest in science. Upon completing her Bachelor of Science in Biology she is looking towards an additional two years of school in the field of Optometry. Keianna has a dream of starting an indigenized Optometry office on Osoyoos Indian Band land with the intention of making eye care more affordable, and comfortable for her community.

“To create and become a positive change in my community and for all indigenous peoples would be and has always been my absolute goal. Indigenous peoples have been growing into strong, beautiful communities, and changing for the better, and this great change needs to continue, so that we can make our ancestors, relatives, people, and family proud. I am honored to be an Okanagan Woman from Osoyoos Indian Band, and I plan on continuing my education to not only improve my life, but also the lives of my community, in the form of health care in optometry.”

tkwəɬniwt (Westbank), Syilx Territory: From August 27-28, 2019, the Okanagan Nation hosted the
‘Purple Ribbon Campaign Caravan” as part of International Overdose Awareness Day. This Caravan saw people from across the Syilx Okanagan territory rally and travel to various communities, sharing resources and bringing awareness to the issue of the pervasive drug and opioid crisis that is gripping Syilx Okanagan communities, and the Okanagan in general. There is an urgent need to address the stigma that surrounds drug use and overdose, while simultaneously increasing culturally appropriate supports and services to decrease the violence and disruption that our communities face.

A highlight of the caravan included an Awareness Walk, where over 40 people, including Syilx Nation members, as well as many others whose lives have been impacted by the tragedies of addiction and overdose, joined together and walked across the William R. Bennett Bridge to City Park, in Kelowna. This initiative brought light to the issue, and was an opportunity to collectively shed the shame and silence that often isolates those most effected by this crisis.

“I continue to affirm that what we are facing is an overdose emergency, both here on Syilx territory and throughout British Columbia. We know that First Nations people are five times more likely than non-First Nations to experience an overdose. Such stats drive home the fact that these issues have their roots in colonization and the impacts of inequality that continue to reverberate through our communities. As a Nation it is imperative that we come together and take on these pervasive inflictions so that we can heal and move forward together, united as one” states Grand Chief Stewart Phillip.

The First Nations Health Authority, Interior Health and the Vernon, Kelowna and Penticton Friendship Centres, alongside the Metis Community Services Society, joined the ONA for the Purple Ribbon Campaign Caravan, which showcased the united front and the collaboration needed to successfully address this crisis.

It is important for anyone facing these issues to know that you are not alone, and that there are resources and supports available to see you through challenging times. For more resources visit:
www.syilx.org/wellness/our-programs-and-services/purple-ribbon-campaign/
~
ONA recognizes Purple Ribbon Day – and all the efforts globally – that provide a deeper recognition to the issue of drug addiction and overdoses, alongside all of the victims of the current opioid emergency. Efforts like the Purple Ribbon Campaign Caravan are part of a broader range of programs and activities, including the Nation Drug Forum, that the Nation takes on to actively address the current opioid crisis that is devastating communities throughout the territory.

For further information please contact:
Grand Chief Dr. 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

MEDIA RELEASE- Purple Ribbon Campaign Caravan

tkwəɬniwt (Westbank), Syilx Territory: On July 31, 2019, the Okanagan Nation Alliance (ONA) will host the “Syilx Well-Being: Nation Drug Forum”. This Drug Forum is part of a broader stream of work carried out by the ONA that affirms our continued commitment to bring awareness to the issue of the pervasive drug and opioid crisis that is gripping Syilx Okanagan communities. There is an urgent need to address the stigma that surrounds drug use and overdose, while simultaneously increasing culturally appropriate supports and services to decrease the violence and disruption that our communities face.

This year’s Drug Forum will include captikwl, a ‘Voices from the People’ Panel and participatory action dialogues and Guest Speakers of families directly impacted by loss due to loss of a child due to this crisis. The Forum will engage Syilx Okanagan leadership, frontline workers, community members, ONA staff and partner agencies in our continued effort to build upon Syilx models for both well-being and resiliency in the face of these most challenging social and community issues.

Grand Chief Stewart Phillip states “The overdose crisis constitutes a state of emergency. This crisis is fueled by poverty and inequality, and finds its roots in the devastating trauma of colonization that continues to have a profound impact on our people. If we don’t address these core issues, which includes connections to land and meeting basic needs, our people will continue to suffer. As Syilx People we carry an inherent responsibility to each other, our families and our communities, that no one is left behind, and that we are on the healing path, together as a Nation.”

Events such as the Drug Forum are collaborative efforts that include the support and contribution of partners such as First Nations Health Authority and Interior Health.

~

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 ONA mandate is to work collectively to advance and assert Syilx Okanagan Nation Title and Rights over the Syilx Okanagan Nation Territory.

MEDIA RELEASE- DRUG FORUM 2019

For further information please contact:

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

Tara Montgomery, ONA Communications Lead
T: 1-250-862-6866 E: tmontgomery@syilx.org

tkwəɬniwt (Westbank), Syilx Territory: The ONA congratulates Syilx Okanagan Nation member, Coralee Miller, as the artist of the 2019 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.

As Coralee states ” I am of mixed heritage, but have grown up as Syilx Okanagan in my community of Westbank. I love art and am working to better myself as an artist by attending UBCO. My favourite mediums are sculpture, painting and drawing, as well as the occasional digital work.  I work as a museum asssistant at the Sncewips Heritage Museum and I love it as it is the one job that gives me a chance to contribute my artistic skills to the space. I love meeting new people and sharing my culture through art and through the oral stories that I hold dear.”

In the spirit of partnership and reconciliation, a landmark agreement to explore salmon reintroduction into the Columbia River Basin between the Syilx Okanagan, Ktunaxa and Secwepemc Indigenous Nations, Canada and British Columbia was signed today in Castlegar. The Letter of Agreement is a commitment by the five governments to collaborate on exploring the reintroduction of Pacific anadromous salmon into the Canadian portion of the Upper Columbia River Basin. The reintroduction of salmon into these areas hopes to restore fish stocks to support indigenous food, social and ceremonial needs.

This collaborative effort will complement the current negotiation process between Canada and the United States to modernize the Columbia River Treaty. The Government of Canada is working closely with the Province of British Columbia and the Syilx Okanagan, Ktunaxa and Secwepemc Indigenous Nations to shape Canada’s approach to these negotiations.

Quotes

“The restoration of salmon to all parts of the territory, including that of the Upper Columbia, is part of our inherent rights and responsibilities as Syilx Okanagan People. ntityix (Chief Salmon) is one of our Four Food Chiefs, and a central part of securing Syilx food sovereignty. Moving forward we are dedicated that these efforts not just use the best, cutting edge science, but also align with Syilx Okanagan traditional knowledge, cultural beliefs and practices for successful return of salmon, protection of our waters and the health of the planet”.
– Chief Chad Eneas, Penticton Indian Band

“The Syilx Okanagan Nation remains steadfast in our commitment to salmon reintroduction throughout all parts of the territory, including that of the Upper Columbia. As we have exhibited with the reintroduction of salmon in the Okanagan sub-basin, the Syilx Okanagan Nation have the vision, leadership, and science and technical capacities to ensure that this work is successful. Today represents a monumental step forward, as it will be through partnerships with the Ktunaxa and Secwepemc Nations, as well as the Province of BC and Government of  Canada, that these efforts will be fully realized.”
– Chief Keith Crow, Lower Similkameen Indian Band

“The loss of salmon from ?amakis Ktunaxa (Ktunaxa Nation territory) has had profound and long-term impacts on our Nation: socially, economically, culturally, spiritually and ecologically. The impacts to us have been comparable to the impacts of residential schools and forcing us on to reserves. We have been working to restore the salmon since at least the 1950’s, and today I am thrilled that the five governments that need to work together are doing just that: committing to work collaboratively to see what we need to do together to bring the salmon back. This is one small step on the long road to reconciliation.”
– Kathryn Teneese, Chair, Ktunaxa Nation Council

“I am very honoured to be a part of this signing to reintroduce the salmon back to our Columbia River. My Grandfathers Adrian Teneese and Chief Louie Arbel would have remembered the salmon run. This is the beginning of a challenge that we will overcome to bring our salmon back. I believe that my grandchildren and future generations will be able to fish the salmon once again in the Columbia River. This was the essence of our culture and life that kept us healthy not only physically but was the bond of our communities. Today we have a duty to make sure the waters are healthy so when the salmon return they will be able to reproduce and give us the sustenance that is crucial to our future generations.”
– Chief Barb Cote, Shuswap Indian Band

“ The Government of Canada is committed to a renewed relationship with Indigenous peoples based on the recognition of rights, respect, cooperation, and partnership. By combining science and research with Indigenous knowledge and advice, we stand a much better chance of successfully reintroducing salmon to this portion of the river and, ultimately, increasing Indigenous communities’ access to more fish for food, social, and ceremonial purposes.”
– The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard

“The historic loss of salmon migratory access to the Canadian portion of the Upper Columbia River has been a longstanding concern in the Columbia River Basin. I’m pleased that the Department of Fisheries and Oceans with the Province of B.C. is working with the Syilx Okanagan, Ktunaxa and Secwepemc Indigenous Nations on this significant project. The signing of this important agreement is the first step in a multi-staged process to explore how salmon can be reintroduced back into this important watershed.”
– Pamela Goldsmith Jones, Parliamentary Secretary, Global Affairs Canada

“Salmon are integral to Indigenous communities and to the economic, environmental and social fabric of British Columbia. With this Agreement, the partners are taking a significant step towards bringing salmon back to the Upper Columbia Basin to protect and enhance salmon stocks for future generations. This signing demonstrates our government’s commitment to implementing the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.”
– The Honourable Doug Donaldson, Minister of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development

“Restoring salmon runs on the Upper Columbia River is incredibly important for Indigenous Nations of the Basin, and will also benefit basin residents and the ecosystem. As the MLA for Kootenay-West and as the Minister Responsible for the Columbia River Treaty, I am very pleased by this step forward. “
– The Honourable Katrine Conroy, BC Minister Responsible for the Columbia River Treaty

Quick Facts:
● The construction of the Grand Coulee Dam in the 1930s and 1940s in the state of Washington blocked salmon from reaching the Upper Columbia River in Canada leading to the extirpation of salmon stocks.
● In 1964, Canada and the United States implemented the Columbia River Treaty to develop the hydroelectric potential of the Columbia River Basin and to manage flood risk. For more than 50 years, the Treaty has been a model of efficient work and cooperation benefiting both Canada and the United States.
● The two countries are in the process of negotiating to modernize the Treaty. The next round of negotiations is scheduled to take place in Cranbook, BC, September 10-11, 2019.
● The signing of the Letter of Agreement demonstrates a renewable three-year commitment amongst five governments to work together to explore ways to reintroduce salmon into the Upper Columbia River Basin. The reintroduction of salmon into these areas, if successful, could restore fish stocks to support indigenous food, social and ceremonial needs and harvest opportunities for Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities.
● Federal and Provincial science advice and Indigenous traditional knowledge will be key to ensuring any reintroduction of salmon into the Upper Columbia River is successful.

News Release – Signing of LoA

Upholding their mandate to protect and advance Syilx People’s Title and Rights, the Chiefs Executive Council has been negotiating with Canada at a Recognition of Indigenous Rights and Self-Determination table.

We know who we are. Through this process, the government of Canada can finally and formally tell itself and all of its bodies to recognize the Syilx People and our Syilx Nation. This is a much more effective path than continually fighting for our rights in costly endless court cases.

Recognition of the Syilx People, developing ankc’x̌ʷiplaʔtntət uɬ yʕat iʔ ks səctxət̕stim – our laws and responsibilities – and establishing our Syilx Nation government are vital steps to fully realize our collective title and rights under Section 35 of the Canadian Constitution, and the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.

This is a not a treaty. It is not a land claim settlement. It does not set up a municipal level government. It has nothing to do with a corporation. We give up nothing! Instead, Canada will be legally bound to stop its denial and recognize the Syilx Nation and our People’s inherent Title and Rights.

Grand Chief Stewart Phillip states: “This is the path to a more just future where we never again have to struggle at every turn to assert our identity and rights as a Nation.”

The Chiefs Executive Council will continue in its role as governance body through transition to our own Nation level government. ankc’x̌ʷiplaʔtntət uɬ yʕat iʔ ks səctxət̕stim – our laws and responsibilities must be set out and approved by Syilx Nation members through the community-led process to rebuild our Syilx Nation government. Recognition by the federal government will create a new Nation-to-Nation fiscal relationship with Canada and support access to Nation rebuilding and then ongoing Syilx Nation governance funding. Stronger intergovernmental relations and respect for Syilx decision-making authority in Syilx territory will support the full realization of our inherent and collectively held Title and Rights.

Rebuilding Our Syilx Nation + Recognition

Way’ Chiefs, Councillors and Membership,

Following the Okanagan Nation Alliance (ONA) Annual General Assembly of July 17-18, 2019, it is
important to emphasize that the proposed Recognition Agreement process is one of de-colonization
where we as members of the Syilx Nation finally hold the power to decide how we are to govern our
collectively-held territorial lands and future.

Our Title and Rights are held collectively at the Nation level, not at the community Band level. It is
at the Nation level that we must work together to fully realize our Title and Rights.

• This Agreement is in no way a surrender of title, lands, jurisdiction or power.
• It does not give away anything or affect any of our rights.
• It does not change Indian Act reserve structure, local governance or status in any way.
• This is about rebuilding our power as Syilx People at the Syilx Nation level.
• This is not a treaty or a land claim. It does not set up any municipal level government or
corporation structure.
• This ensures the government does not ever deny our Title or Rights, including in court.
• This is an unprecedented Agreement and opportunity to ensure our power – Nation to Nation.
• It creates opportunities to rebuild our Syilx laws and responsibilities and our own Syilx
governance processes.
• This allows us to rebuild our own Syilx Nation governance and move beyond the ONA Society
Act process.

The Chiefs Executive Council has committed to Nation-wide community discussions specifically on
this Recognition Agreement. Syilx Nation members will be notified of Recognition discussion
forum schedules as soon as they can be confirmed. This will be in addition to the community-led
Syilx Nation Rising rebuilding engagement already underway.

lim’ləmpt
Grand Chief Dr. Stewart Phillip

Special Message from GCSP – AGA Follow-up Nation Recognition Message

tkwəɬniwt (Westbank), Syilx Okanagan Territory: The Okanagan Nation Alliance (ONA) is proud to announce that our Annual General Assembly (AGA) will take place from July 17-18, 2019. This event provides Syilx Okanagan people with the opportunity to gather as a Nation, celebrate the many successes that have taken place for our people over the last year, and reflect on the persistent challenges that we collectively face together. This year the Okanagan Indian Band (OKIB) is hosting the event at the Prestige Vernon Lodge and Conference Centre, in Vernon, BC.

The keynote speaker for this year’s AGA is Bernie Williams Poitras, a community leader and long-time advocate for Indigenous women, who recently contributed to the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls. The issue of Murdered & Missing Women and Girls, alongside the generational impacts of the Indian Residential Schools, systemic racism and violence, continue to have profound effects on Syilx communities, and Ms. Williams Poitras will be speaking to some of key processes that have been highlighted for addressing these issues through the National Inquiry.

Grand Chief Dr. Stewart Phillip states that: “This is a trying time for Canada. The Prime Minister’s lofty promises of transparency, integrity, gender equity, Indigenous reconciliation, and enhanced environmental protection have all been shown to have very shallow roots. Words are one thing, but deeds are quite another. At this year’s AGA we continue to come together, as our ancestors have always done, to find the ways and means of taking on the challenges that colonialism has created, and finding solutions that resonate within our contemporary context.”

Alongside a variety of pertinent presentations and dialogues, there will also be a host of cultural activities taking place, including Canoe Races, Traditional Games, and nsyilxcən Bingo hosted throughout the two days.

Aligned with AGA, the annual Youth Leadership and Elders Gathering will also take place. This event provides Syilx youth the opportunity to connect with other peers from across the territory, engage in on-the-land based activities, and cultivate leadership skills. This event further supports the Syilx Okanagan Nation’s dedication to cultivate strong youth leaders today by their interaction with elders and other leaders throughout the Nation so that we may continue to thrive in the future.

For more info and a full agenda of the event visit: www.syilx.org/events/annual-general-assembly/

~

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 ONA mandate is to work collectively to advance and assert Syilx Okanagan Nation Title and Rights over the Syilx Okanagan Nation Territory.

For further information please contact:
Grand Chief Dr. Stewart Phillip, ONA Chair
T: 1-250-490-5314

Tara Montgomery, ONA Communications Lead
T: 1-250-862-6866 E: tmontgomery@syilx.org

MEDIA RELEASE- AGA 2019

As of July 9, 2019, about 57,875 Sockeye have entered the Columbia River. It is estimated that
75-85% will return to the Okanagan. In total, we are anticipating there will be 60,000 sockeye
returning to the Columbia, with 45,000 to 51,000 sockeye heading to the Okanagan. These low returns are a result of poor migration conditions that affected the 2015 run. Since these
estimates are below 80,000, neither an economic nor recreational fishery will be considered.

Currently Syilx Okanagan Nation members are actively food fishing at sx̌ʷəx̌ʷnitkʷ (swuhwuneet-kw) and nʕaylintn (ny-lin-tn) since the beginning of July and river temperatures have not increased where the sockeye have not fallen back into Osoyoos Lake. To support the food fishery the ONA does have two 16ft Lund boats with fishing gear available for community members to sign out. Individuals will require a truck to tow boat and boaters license and will need to return in working condition with same gear/equipment as it left with. We also have ice available at the hatchery in Penticton.

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. Due to the low returns, for the time being, the ONA does not anticipate any communal distribution.

The ONA is dedicated 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, education programs like Fish in Schools (FinS), and outreach initiatives like the 2019 Okanagan Nation Fisheries Forum, which focused on the current and expanding operations of our fishery and stewardship responsibilities.

*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.

Howie Wright, ONA Fisheries Manager
T: 1-250-718-5215
E: HWright@syilx.org

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

Community Bulletin – Okanagan Nation 2019 sc’win (sockeye salmon) Return

sɬuxʷqaynm (Castlegar), Syilx Territory: On June 24, 2019, as part of the Okanagan Nation Alliance’s (ONA) ongoing effort to bring salmon back to the Upper Columbia, a sockeye fry release and cpu taʔstm iʔ xaʔxʔitət uɬ ck ́aʕxtm iʔ ntytyix Salmon Ceremony took place at Millennium Park in sɬuxʷqaynm, BC. These actions are central to Syilx Peoples responsibility to honor our ancestors and pray for the salmon, siwlɬkʷ (water) and tmixʷ (land).

“The Syilx Nation adheres to our responsibilities to all parts of our territory, including that of the Upper Columbia. In the face of many challenges the Syilx Okanagan Nation remains committed to ensuring that not only is our voice heard, but that our presence is felt. We, as Syilx People, have an inherent responsibility to call salmon back to the Upper Columbia. Ceremonies such as this affirm our connection to our territory” stated Grand Chief Dr. Stewart Phillip, ONA Chair.

The sockeye fry release saw over 500 students from 10 schools throughout the Columbia releasing approximately 1200 sockeye fry that they have raised as part of ONA’s Fish in Schools (FinS) program.
By creating greater awareness of aquatic species students will become more educated 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.

caylx (Richard Armstrong), Syilx elder furthered that “Our Salmon Ceremonies are important because they tell the salmon ‘Come up! The Eagles need to eat. The Bears have to eat. The land can be fed, because not only the people depend on the salmon, but the land depends on it. The Eagles take the fish to the shore and the Bears carry it further up the mountain and they fertilize the huckleberries and everything else up the mountain. And as long as we perform these ceremonies the salmon knows that we Syilx are still here and we are still carrying out our responsibilities to call them home”.

The Okanagan Nation Alliance (ONA) continue to be dedicated and vigilant to ensuring the successful reintroduction of sockeye salmon to the Upper Columbia watershed.
~
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. In the 1960’s the Columbia River Treaty led to the creation of industrial reservoirs and the building hydro-electric developments on the Columbia River, making it impossible for fish passage, which deeply impacts Syilx cultural and food systems. Years of hard work, direct action and political advocacy, particularly in the last decade, have seen the ONA working with provincial, federal, other First Nations, and US Tribes and agencies to rebuild this sockeye run within all parts of Syilx territory.

For further information please contact:
Grand Chief Dr. Stewart Phillip
T: 250-490-5314

ONA Chair Howie Wright, ONA Fisheries Manager
T: 1-250-718-5215

MEDIA RELEASE-Castlegar Fry Release and Salmon Ceremony

tkwəɬniwt (Westbank), Syilx Okanagan Territory: The Chiefs of the Syilx Okanagan Nation welcome
the May 2, 2019 decision of the British Columbia Court of Appeal in R. v. Desautel, recognizing
and protecting Sinixt Aboriginal hunting rights in B.C. Sinixt are inextricably linked to our broader
Syilx Okanagan Nation, sharing common language, culture, history, traditions and ancestry. As
our Syilx communities include many Sinixt people, this confirmation that Sinixt rights continue to
exist in Syilx Okanagan Territory is critically important, particularly in light of the Province of
British Columbia’s previous denial of those rights.

The case was an appeal of the BC Supreme Court’s affirmation of the BC Provincial Court’s
March 27, 2017 decision that found that Richard DeSautel, a member of the Lakes Tribe of the
Confederated Colville Tribes (CCT) and a United States citizen, has an Aboriginal right to hunt
in the traditional territory of Sinixt people in British Columbia.

The BC Court of Appeal dismissed the Province’s appeal and confirmed some key legal
principles:
• The Aboriginal perspective needs to be taken into account when assessing whether persons who are not resident or citizens of Canada can be “Aboriginal peoples of Canada”;

• There is no requirement for there to be a modern-day community in the area where harvesting activities take place for an Aboriginal right to exist – this finding reflects the fact that Indigenous peoples were displaced through the process of colonization and that rights in the Arrow Lakes area were never voluntarily surrendered or abandoned.

In commenting on the decision, Grand Chief Stewart Phillip, Chair of the Chiefs’ Executive
Council of the Syilx Okanagan Nation stated that: “We are pleased that the Court of Appeal has
confirmed what we have always known – that the Sinixt (in our language, the sʔalt̕ik̓ʷt) were the
original inhabitants of the Arrow Lakes region long before the Europeans arrived. We are not
extinct.”

The Grand Chief went on to note: “As colonization advanced and especially with the imposition
of a boundary between the US and Canada, our Sinixt people were forced to choose which side
of the border to live in. Yet we are all related and we remain related to the present day. The
ONA and CCT will continue to be united through our cultural, familial, territorial, economic and
political ties. Neither the Court’s decision nor an imaginary line at the 49th parallel can affect the
relationships of our Sinixt people and the Title and Rights that belong to us, the nsyilxcen speaking
peoples. We were pleased to participate in the appeal on behalf of Syilx Okanagan
people and our Nation. We also hold up our two elders, Richard Armstrong and Hazel Squakin,
who were able to share their knowledge of the Arrow Lakes area of our Territory at Mr.
DeSautel’s trial.”

The Okanagan Nation Alliance and its Chiefs’ Executive Council represent Syilx Okanagan
Nation members and are mandated to protect, advance and defend Syilx Okanagan Nation
collective Title and Rights. Syilx Okanagan Nation communities include thousands of members
who are Sinixt descendants and whose ancestors historically lived in the Arrow Lakes area.

For more information please contact:
Grand Chief Stewart Phillip, Okanagan Nation Alliance Chair
Tel: (250) 490-5314

Press Release BCCA Decision in Desautel

The BC Wildfire Service, the Okanagan Nation Alliance and the Lower
Similkameen Indian Band plan to conduct a 192-hectare prescribed burn near Crater Mountain, about 15 kilometres west of Keremeos.

The burn is the first phase of a comprehensive, multi-year project that is intended to improve bighorn sheep habitat, reduce wildfire threats to nearby communities and protect cultural values. This collaborative effort also supports the traditional use of fire as a tool to improve landscapes in the Okanagan region. This prescribed burn could start as early as Tuesday, April 2, 2019, if weather, site and venting conditions allow. It will be ignited only if conditions are suitable and will allow for quick smoke dissipation.

The Lower Similkameen Indian Band and the BC Wildfire Service will carefully prepare, control and monitor the fire. Smoke may be visible from nearby communities. This low- to moderate-intensity surface fire will be lit within pre-established boundaries to remove combustible materials and mimic a naturally occurring ground fire.

More information about the project can be found online: www.syilx.org/cikilaxwm-prescribed-fire-used-to-manage-bighorn-sheep-habitat-on-syilxterritory/

To report a wildfire, unattended campfire or open burning violation, call 1 800 663-5555 tollfree
or *5555 on a cellphone.

Follow the latest B.C. wildfire news:
On Twitter: http://twitter.com/BCGovFireInfo
On Facebook: http://facebook.com/BCForestFireInfo

Learn More: A factsheet about prescribed burns and ecosystem restoration burns is available online: http://ow.ly/E8Ue30br7OY

Prescribed burn scheduled near Crater Mountain

scʕaxans nhithitwəl̓ (Peachland Watershed), Syilx Territory: On March 22, 2019, as part of World Water Day, the Okanagan Nation hosted the 5th annual siwɬkʷ (Water) Forum. This year’s theme was ‘Collaborative Approach to Water Resiliency: Protecting Our Headwaters’, and in collaboration with the Town of Peachland, focused on the health and protection of the scʕaxans nhithitwəl̓ (Peachland Watershed).

The Forum brought together 100 people, including Syilx/Okanagan leaders, elders, traditional knowledge keepers and community members, alongside municipal and provincial governments, NGO representatives and academics. Together participants connected with each other out on the land, shared perspectives, and engaged in dialogue on drinking water protection, wetlands, and other important water issues including impacts of forestry and mining.

Grand Chief Stewart Phillip affirmed that “As Syilx people we recognize our inherent right and responsibility to siwɬkʷ, one of our most sacred relations. With continued environmental degradation of scʕaxans nhithitwəl̓ the protection of these headwaters is of utmost importance to ensure that all citizens and living beings are able to access clean drinking water. We need to work with everyone’s interest in mind, particularly given the challenging issue of climate change. The future of our grandchildren depends on our ability and courage to collectively stand up and defend land and water”.

The tour began with a Syilx/Okanagan water ceremony and sign unveiling in the scʕaxans nhithitwəl̓ (Peachland Watershed), followed by a Syilx/Okanagan cultural assessment of scʕaxans nhithitwəl̓. Through the Forum attendees were part of a land assessment of the watershed and Syilx/Okanagan guides exhibited how water centric planning and management is a long-standing concept that Syilx/Okanagan people continue to practice as fundamental guiding principles. The group returned together for an afternoon of dialogue on the impacts of forestry on water quality and drinking water and worked to develop collaborative projects to address the issue.

Peachland Mayor Cindy Fortin further reiterated that “Drinking water is our most precious resource and it is our duty to conserve and protect it for future generations, wildlife, agriculture and the environment. The best way to do that is in partnerships with local First Nations and our neighbouring communities”.
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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/ 

Sponsors for the siwɬkʷ (Water) Forum include BC Hydro, Ntityix Resources and the Okanagan Basin Water Board.

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