A STATEMENT FROM THE SYILX OKANAGAN NATION

June 12, 2026

stqaʔtkwłniw̓t, Westbank, Syilx Okanagan Nation Territory: The Syilx Okanagan Nation is outraged by the announcement of the upcoming OneBC event in Kelowna featuring MLA Dallas Brodie. Brodie has clearly stated her position and that of her party regarding the history of Indian Residential Schools, and more seriously her denialism which has caused significant harm to Survivors, Elders, families, and Indigenous communities across British Columbia.

The Syilx Okanagan Nation stands firmly with Survivors of Indian Residential Schools and remains committed to truth, reconciliation, and the protection of Indigenous rights. While individuals have the right to express their views, statements that diminish, deny, or distort the lived experiences of Survivors are not welcome on Syilx Okanagan Territory.

“How a society chooses to speak about its most painful history reveals what it is willing to protect,” says Chief Clarence Louie. Attempts to rewrite or diminish the history of residential schools are harmful and unacceptable. “For us, the dignity of Survivors is not negotiable, and we will continue to stand firmly with them to ensure their truth is not erased.”

Media Contact:

Tara Montgomery, Communications Lead, Okanagan Nation Alliance

tmontgomery@syilx.org

250-862-6866

PDF COPY:

ONA statement regarding OneBC