tkwəɬniwt (Westbank, BC), Syilx Okanagan Nation Territory: The Syilx Okanagan Chiefs Executive Council stands with Joan Phillip, MLA, in her principled decision not to support the suspension of the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (DRIPA). Her position reflects the strength of leadership our people expect and a commitment to uphold the Province’s obligations to First Nations.

MLA Phillip is a member of the Penticton Indian Band and a former Councillor for her community. She has spent decades on the front lines advancing and defending First Nations Title and Rights. Alongside her spouse, Grand Chief Stewart Phillip, she is part of a generation of syilx leadership that has advanced the protection of syilx Okanagan Nation law, governance, and jurisdiction.

“We stand behind Joan Phillip because she is doing exactly what our leadership is expected to do—protect our Title and Rights and hold the Crown to its commitments,” said Osoyoos Indian Band Chief Clarence Louie, Chair of the Syilx Okanagan Nation Chiefs Executive Council. “DRIPA was co-developed with First Nations and reflects the recognition of Indigenous rights as fundamental human rights. Any attempt to step back from those commitments without us is unacceptable. The work of advancing Title and Rights is not only necessary for our Nations—it is foundational to a stable and just future for all British Columbians.”

“I have known Joan Phillip for many years, and her leadership has always been grounded in advancing our Title and Rights,” said Chief Greg Gabriel of the Penticton Indian Band. “Her decision to enter provincial politics reflects that same commitment—ensuring that First Nations leadership is present where decisions are being made. Advancing and leading on Title and Rights benefits all British Columbians. This is about coexistence—we are all here to stay.”

The Syilx Okanagan Chiefs Executive Council unequivocally reject any suspension or amendment of DRIPA. We again call on the Province to abandon any plans to suspend or amend DRIPA and to work in consultation and cooperation with First Nations to co-develop real, ethical, common-sense solutions.

Media Contacts:

y̓ilmixʷm ki law na Clarence Louie

xaʔtus Chairman, Okanagan Nation Alliance

Mobile: 250-498-9132

y̓ilmixʷm sil-teekin Greg Gabriel

Chief Penticton Indian Band

Mobile: 250-490-7250