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.
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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. 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

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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

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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

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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

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As part of Budget 2019, First Nations in British Columbia will have a stable, long-term source of funding to invest in their communities’ priorities, through a historic revenue-sharing agreement between the Province and the First Nations Leadership Council.

Starting April 2019, approximately $3 billion over 25 years will be shared with B.C. First Nations, meaning every First Nation community in B.C. will be eligible for between $250,000 and $2 million annually through the agreement.

First Nations communities will determine their own priorities for the funding, which can be used for a wide range of benefits, including: health and wellness, housing, infrastructure, training, environmental protection, economic development, governance capacity and other uses.

The agreement to share provincial gaming revenue was reached after decades of work and advocacy by the First Nations Leadership Council, represented by the First Nations Gaming Commission, as directed through resolutions by Chiefs at assemblies of the British Columbia Assembly of First Nations, the First Nations Summit and the Union of British Columbia Indian Chiefs. The Commission is establishing a new B.C. First Nations limited partnership to manage the funding, overseen by a First Nations-appointed board of directors.

Sharing revenue with First Nations communities is an important step that puts reconciliation into action. This agreement is part of B.C.’s commitment to create a new fiscal relationship with First Nations, recognizing self-government and self-determination.

Quotes:

Grand Chief Joe Hall, former chair, BC First Nations Gaming Commission –

“The B.C. government is finally implementing a long-awaited agreement to share gaming revenue that will enable First Nations the opportunity to prioritize critically important community issues that have long hindered their beneficial development.”

Premier John Horgan –

“This agreement will change lives for the better in every corner of the province. It means consistent, predictable and sustainable funding to support critical things every government needs, like improving infrastructure, implementing long-term planning and pursuing development opportunities to address the economic, social and cultural needs of Indigenous peoples on the lands that have belonged to them since time began. This is transformative for people, families and communities, and we’re very excited about that.”

Carole James, Minister of Finance –

“This agreement is the result of decades of tireless work by the First Nations Leadership Council to ensure that the resources of our province are shared in a way that advances self-government and self-determination. I’m enormously proud of what we have accomplished together to ensure that communities have the resources they need and deserve.”

Scott Fraser, Minister of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation –

“With this new source of funding, First Nations communities will have added resources to invest in important priorities that help communities flourish – social services, education, infrastructure, cultural revitalization and economic development. We are proud to put reconciliation into action by supporting the right of every First Nation in B.C. to self-government and self-determination. ”

Regional Chief Terry Teegee, British Columbia Assembly of First Nations –

“First Nations have demanded a fair share from their territories for decades – our title and rights include an economic component that requires sharing in all sectors. The revenue-sharing agreement paves the way for First Nations to finally access a share of the provincial gaming revenue as well as access to community gaming grants that will support positive community change. We look forward to the upcoming Phase 2 of discussions on direct First Nations participation in gaming industry opportunities.”

Robert Phillips, First Nations Summit political executive –

“Every additional dollar into B.C. First Nations communities, including gaming funds, will directly correlate to better living conditions and an improved quality of life. Past studies have clearly shown that such an infusion of new funds into communities annually will measurably enhance the economy of both Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities, supporting the notion that healthy Indigenous economies benefit all British Columbians.”

Kukpi7 Judy Wilson, Union of British Columbia Indian Chiefs –

“We are extremely pleased that the persistent work of the BC First Nations Gaming Commission is being realized – revenue sharing on gaming marks an important step in recognizing the economic component to Indigenous inherent title and self-determination to make our own decisions about our territories. Next steps are aligning legislative codes and policies to this First Nations gaming agreement and to the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.”

Quick Facts:

• In 2017-18, the B.C. government collected $1.391 billion in net revenue from gaming activities.
• Currently, 31% of total provincial gaming revenue is distributed to fund a Health Special Account, community gaming grants and host local governments. This will remain unchanged, and an additional 7% will be distributed to the First Nations new limited partnership. The remainder will continue to go into the Province’s general revenues.
• Funding will be distributed to communities based on the following formula, developed by the First Nations Gaming Commission in consultation with First Nations:
  • 50% base funding (divided equally among partnered First Nations, including modern Treaty Nations, in B.C.);
  • 40% based on population, and
  • 10% for geographically remote communities.

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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

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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

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We would like to recognize BRIDGES participant Tara Stanley,

Wey’ my name is Tara Stanley, my father is Bruce Abel from Westbank First Nation and my mother the late Theresa (Tess) Stanley from Akisq’nuk. My Maternal grandparents are the late Doreen Stanley (?Akisq’nuk) and the late Albert Ignatius (Yaqan Nukiy), my paternal grandparents are Edna Abel (Westbank First Nations) and the late Eddie Kruger (Penticton Indian Band). I was born in Kelowna, BC.  and raised in Westbank, BC.

I first heard about the BRIDGES program when I was in the Active Measures classes with WFN. I signed up for the “Enriching My Life” (youth TEK series) that was held during the summer of 2017, travelling throughout the territory learning about place names, captikwl, plant knowledge and getting to know other nation members.  The BRIDGES program has helped me in so many ways, not only through education but they helped me mentally and spiritually with bringing us (the youth) out on the land to gain knowledge and grow closer with my spirit.

I have taken the entrepreneur step to start an E-juice company with my fiancé Jesse Regan in the summer of 2018. I am currently going to the Okanagan School of Business for my two year diploma to learn more about entrepreneurship. I wear many hats: running a business, going to school full-time, working at Okanagan Nation Alliance in the Natural Resources department (sometimes photographer for events as well), on the WFN Public Arts Committee, the Siya? Celebration committee, a cultural teacher since the age of ten sharing my knowledge of song and dance, and a mother of Trey Stanley who is ten years of age.

BRIDGES has helped me to achieve my goals. When I am finished the BRIDGES program I hope to stay connected with the organization in helping our next generation with knowledge of what is available for them. I highly recommend the BRIDGES program to our future leaders.

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We would like to recognize BRIDGES participant Taylor Lezard, 

My name is Taylor Lezard, I am from the Penticton Indian Band. An employment goal of mine is to find a career as an esthetician in a high end spa. I am continuously educating myself. I have just completed my esthetics program and am currently finishing off my high school, along with taking an Nsyilxcən language class. I first heard about BRIDGES from Kathy Pierre, the Director of Education for the Penticton Indian Band. The different events and programs BRIDGES has put on have always interested me. I love learning about my culture and community and BRIDGES has provided that. The support I’ve gotten these past few months has helped me a lot while I was completing my post-secondary. Once I’m finished the BRIDGES program I hope to gain enough knowledge and experience to know how to support myself throughout the rest of my life. I would recommend BRIDGES to others.

 

BRIDGES is available to Syilx unemployed or under-employed aged 15-30 who would benefit from support in their transition into the labor market (i.e., education and training, job shadowing, interships, etc.)

 

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Healthy Schools Cooking in the Classroom update:

Since September 2018, ONA has provided to the Okanagan Schools through the Health Promoting Schools programming. Over 90 students, at 3 schools have had the opportunity to participate in cooking, and enjoying foods based learning at school!

I hope the pictures convey the absolute excitement and joy the kids have cooking at every school!

Jenny Martin, Health Promoting School Coordinator OIB, LSIB, WFN, PIB

 

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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

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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

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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

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(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)

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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