Open Letter from BC Union of Indian Chiefs re: Bills 14/15

Courtesy of the Union of BC Indian Chiefs:

Dear Premier Eby:

Re: Open Letter on Bills 14 + 15

We are writing to raise our serious concerns about communications and representations that were made about Bills 14 and 15 to the First Nations Leadership Council (“FNLC”) at the All Chiefs meeting with you on May 15, 2025. In this meeting you heard directly from dozens of First Nations regarding their opposition to the Bills, many of whom have also sent you related correspondence.

As you know, the honour of the Crown is at stake when the Crown engages with First Nations. As part of honourable dealing, it is essential – and should go without saying – that statements and explanations provided by provincial government representatives about proposed legislation need to be clear. Without clarity, First Nations are not able to assess the import or impacts of the proposed legislation.

We have found your statements about the requirement for consent and compliance with the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (“UN Declaration”) to be unclear, confusing, and arguably misleading.

At the May 15th meeting, you stated: “Consent is a requirement for private projects… not because we just think that it’s the right thing to do – although it is – but because the Constitution requires it, the Interpretation Act requires it, and we put that specific provision into each of those bills.” You also told us at the May 15th meeting that “DRIPA obligations mean that these provisions wouldn’t be used without the support of the Nation whose core territory it’s on. There’s a specific provision in both bills that say that nothing in these bills can be interpreted as being inconsistent with the protections of DRIPA,” and that “both Bills 14 and 15 include explicit provisions that say that these Bills cannot take away from the rights that are protected under the Declaration.”

We note that you repeated a similar refrain at the Western Premiers’ Conference in Yellowknife on May 22nd, stating that Bill 15 will require the support of Indigenous Nations whose core Territory a private project is on, and even going so far as to state that it is about “partnership” as government cannot fast track projects over Indigenous objections.

After closely reviewing Bills 14 and 15 again following our meeting with you, we are deeply concerned and confounded by these statements as these assurances are not contained in the Bills. Section 20 in Bill 15 and section 13(2) in Bill 14 are the only provisions that refer to the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (“Declaration Act”).  Neither of those provisions state that the legislation cannot be interpreted in a manner inconsistent with the protections of the Declaration Act or UN Declaration. Rather, they merely adopt the definition of “Indigenous peoples” from the Declaration Act. If the intention behind these provisions was to set out a requirement that the legislation not be interpreted inconsistently with the Declaration Act or the UN Declaration, amendments to the wording are required. If that was not the intention, we do not understand how you could make the statements you did at the May 15th meeting.

Despite your statements suggesting that consent from First Nations would be a prerequisite to projects, it is clear on the face of the Bills that they do not contain a requirement for consent from First Nations before a project can proceed or be designated for streamlining. At the May 15th meeting, you clarified that future regulations would set out that a private project can only be designated for fast tracking if the First Nation in whose “core territory” the project is located consents to the designation. Having this requirement in a regulation is materially different than having it in the underlying legislation, and your comments about consent being part of the Bills is hard to understand if the intention is to put such a requirement in regulations. This is more than just semantics – if the consent requirement is not set out in the legislation, it will be much easier for future governments to change the regulatory requirement as opposed to amending a statutory requirement.

As was expressed at the meeting, we remain quite concerned by your statements that a project must be in a First Nation’s “core territory” before it can be designated for fast tracking. This concept echoes the “postage stamp” approach to Aboriginal title that was roundly rejected by the Supreme Court of Canada and has been rejected by First Nations from the outset. No explanation has been provided as to what “core territory” means nor who will determine whether a project is, or is not, in a First Nation’s “core territory”. This is not a matter for the Crown to decide, and this proposed approach seriously risks prejudicing First Nations because of new or persisting boundary disputes caused by colonial policies and processes. It is a paternalistic and dismissive approach to refer to core Territories in this context.                

You acknowledged at the May 15th meeting that it was a mistake for your government to fail to apply the Interim Approach to these Bills. We agree. That failure has left many First Nations with unanswered questions and serious concerns about the acceleration of resource development in their Territories without First Nation consent and without robust environmental assessment processes and regulatory oversight. As you know, First Nations are not opposed to responsible resource development. But these Bills appear to be designed to turn back the clock on all of the progress we have made together toward reconciliation in this Province, to a time when resource development projects were pushed through in the name of economic development, without environmental impacts to First Nations’ lands, waters and resources being considered, understood, or mitigated, and without recognition and respect of First Nations’ Aboriginal title and rights. We understood that the NDP was committed to walking forward together with First Nations on a path of reconciliation, not walking backwards with a top-down, “economy first” agenda.

We were dismayed with your summary response at the May 15th meeting that you will not withdraw Bills 14 and 15 to allow for meaningful consultation between your government and First Nations in BC over the summer on necessary amendments. We need you to understand that there are 204 First Nations in British Columbia and, while you may find support among a select few who we wish well, your refusal to withdraw the Bills will have serious impacts on the FNLC’s and many First Nations’ relationships with your government. These impacts could well be irreparable.

Sincerely,

FIRST NATIONS LEADERSHIP COUNCIL

On behalf of the FIRST NATIONS SUMMIT

Nasuʔkin Cheryl Casimer
Robert Phillips
Hugh Braker   

On behalf of the UNION OF BC INDIAN CHIEFS  

Grand Chief Stewart Phillip
Chief Don Tom
Chief Marilyn Slett

On behalf of the BC ASSEMBLY OF FIRST NATIONS:

Regional Chief Terry Teegee

CC:     
Hon. Bowinn Ma, Minister of Infrastructure
B.C. Government
First Nations leadership in B.C

Xat'sull First Nation calls on Bills 14/15 to be withdrawn

Courtesy of Xat'sull First Nation:

WLFN/Williams Lake City Council holds "Council-to-Council Meeting"

Courtesy of Williams Lake First Nation Facebook page:

Yesterday marked the first "Council-to-Council" meeting between Williams Lake First Nation (WLFN) and the City of Williams Lake since the current Williams Lake Mayor and Council took office last November 2022

Referring to ongoing and future collaborations between WLFN and the City, Kukpi7 (Chief) Willie Sellars remarks: “Working together and standing together is how we’re going to change the narrative of our region. We’re thankful to the City of Williams Lake and their willingness to champion the territory with the Williams Lake First Nation.” 

Williams Lake Mayor Surinderpal Rathor adds: 

 “I would like to thank Chief Sellars and WLFN Council for meeting with City of Williams Lake Council to discuss ways we can work together for the betterment of our communities. This was the first official meeting between our Councils since the last election, and we are impressed with the strong leadership shown by WLFN Chief and Council. We are excited by the many opportunities that lie ahead and look forward to continuing to communicate and collaborate.” 

WLFN Council and City of Williams Lake Council plan to meet regularly to continue to move forward together

Recognizing First Nations Culture and History

Courtesy of the City of Quesnel:

Editor's Note -- this week's Quesnel City Council column is written by Quesnel Mayor Bob Simpson.  He can be reached via email here

Shortly after being elected Mayor, I was on stage with a number of dignitaries who appropriately recognized the traditional territory of the Lhtako Dene and Southern Carrier people prior to speaking to the audience. As I stepped up to the microphone to give my first speech as Mayor, I realized I could not follow suit and “recognize” the traditional territory of the Lhtako Dene because the City of Quesnel, at that time, had taken no steps to actually, in practice, recognize the Lhtako Dene’s territorial rights in any way, despite the clear and undisputed fact that the City of Quesnel is built on the traditional and unceded territory of the Lhtako.

From that moment on, with the full support of Quesnel City Council, we have taken steps to not simply recognize the traditional territory of the Lhtako Dene (all City buildings now have territorial recognition signs and the Lhtako Dene flag flies at the Visitor Center) we have been actively engaged with Lhtako Council, Elders and community members on a number of reconciliation initiatives and business partnerships. Those initiatives have now been expanded to include the Chiefs and Councils of the Nazko, ?Esdilagh, and Lhoosk’uz First Nations – all of which have a historical and traditional relationship with the land surrounding the confluence of the Quesnel and Fraser Rivers and Baker Creek.

Our fledgling community forest is one of the key business partnerships the City and these four First Nations have underway. The work we’ve been doing together on this initiative has deepened the relationships between the elected leaders and technical staff of all five communities.

For the past 18 months, bi-monthly meetings between the elected Chiefs and the Mayor have enabled us to dig into critical issues that impact all of our communities: mental health and addictions, housing, education, economic development, and reconciliation initiatives, to name a few. These meetings are starting to bear fruit, as our common interests will enable us to pursue collaborative initiatives to address the challenges we’re all confronted with.

Of course, the City of Quesnel itself is clearly situated on the traditional territory of the Lhtako Dene. This nation had a settlement at the confluence of the Quesnel and Fraser Rivers and Baker Creek for millennia prior to contact with European explorers. In fact, the Lhatko are reputed to have had one of the largest settled populations in the Province next to Haida Gwaii, prior to being wiped out by the diseases brought by early settlers. It is not an overstatement to say that the City of Quesnel is built on the bones of the Lhatko Dene, as there are known mass graves throughout the City as well as multiple individual graves and sacred sites. 

Yet, any visitor or resident walking along our Riverfront Trail would be forgiven for thinking that the only history that mattered along the City’s riverfronts is that of “discovery” and “settlement” by European “pioneers.” The announcement this week of the creation of a new cultural precinct at Lhtako Dene Park (formerly Ceal Tingley Park) is intended to change that and give residents and visitors alike a sense of the long history and deep cultural association that the Lhtako Dene have with the confluence of the rivers at the heart of the City. 

This cultural interpretation project has been years in the making and is a result of significant and ongoing dialogue with the Lhtako Chief, Council, Elders, and community. Lhatko Dene Park represents a first step toward achieving true reconciliation with and recognition of the First Nations who called “Quesnel” home long before European settlement.  

Restoring Lhtako Dene Culture to Quesnel’s Riverfronts

Joint Release - City of Quesnel and Lhtako Dene Nation:

On National Indigenous Peoples Day, Ceal Tingley Park was renamed Lhtako Dene Park as part of a major initiative to restore Lhtako Dene and Southern Carrier culture to the City’s riverfronts. For the Lhtako, which means ‘where the waters meet,’ the entire confluence of the Quesnel and Fraser rivers and Baker Creek, is a significant cultural place and was the main Lhtako Dene settlement site for millennia prior to European settlement. 

The renaming of the park is part of a two-year long Waterfront Cultural Interpretation Project that was developed as an outcome of the City’s overall Waterfront Development Plan. City staff and specialist consultants worked with the Lhtako Dene Nation’s Chief, Council, Elders and community members to ensure this project reflects the history and culture of the Lhtako Dene Nation. 

The new park sign will welcome visitors to the Territory of the Lhtako Dene Nation. The sign will be situated between two Lhtako Dene Nation flags. The welcome sign and a dipnet and sockeye salmon sculpture will be the main features at the park entrance. Many other features will be added as the project develops. Lhtako Dene Park is also the planned location for the Lhtako Dene Cultural Centre project when grant funding becomes available.

Chief/Council - Lhtako Dene Nation stated:

This project brings the Lhtako people back to the home of our ancestors and creates spaces where people will gather, learn, teach, meet and build community. Traditional ways of life were practiced here for thousands of years and carry on today.

While Bob Simpson, Mayor of the City of Quesnel commented:

Renaming this park continues Quesnel Council’s commitment to recognizing Lhtako Dene Nation’s traditional territory, millennia-long history, and continued cultural presence throughout the Quesnel area. Through significant consultation with the Lhtako Dene Nation, this project will tell their story from their perspective

Peace River RD reaffirms commitment to reconciliation with First Nations

Courtesy of the Peace River Regional District:

The Peace River Regional District (PRRD) Board of Directors reaffirmed its commitment to reconciliation with First Nations at its Regional Board meeting yesterday.

“We are committed to the process of reconciliation with First Nations, and our focus on collaboration with First Nations is outlined in the PRRD’s strategic plan,” says PRRD Board Chair Brad Sperling. “We will continue to work with our First Nations neighbours and friends on a better future for them and for all who live in the Peace River Regional District. I believe, and my colleagues on the Regional Board believe, that we must all do better.”

The issue of reconciliation came up at the Regional Board meeting when members unanimously resolved to send letters of support to Kukpi7 (Chief) Willie Sellars of the Williams Lake First Nation of the Secwepemc Nation and to the Cariboo Regional District, both of whom made strong public statements in light of events earlier this week involving the Mayor of Williams Lake - Walt Cobb. The PRRD’s letters of support will express disagreement with the viewpoint shared regarding the impact of residential schools.

“We stand with the Cariboo Regional District in rejecting the viewpoint that there is some good in the history of residential schools,” says Sperling.

The letters will also advise that the PRRD is committed to the principles and practices of reconciliation as critical to the path to healing amongst all people.

#CaribooRD re-affirms commitment to reconciliation

Courtesy of the Cariboo Regional District:

The Cariboo Regional District (CRD) has valued and greatly appreciates cooperative relationships with the First Nations and Indigenous People of the Cariboo and Chilcotin since the Regional District was incorporated in 1968. Today, Canadians expect all levels of government to work toward to an effective, respectful relationship with First Nations. In that spirit, the CRD is reaffirming its commitment to the principles and practices of reconciliation. We believe they are critical to the healing journey Canada needs to undertake with regard to injustices inflicted on indigenous people.

There is pain in Canada’s past. We see a history of discrimination, prejudice, and colonialism -- enmeshed with stories of courage, achievement, and sacrifice. For those who attended residential schools, suggestions to find the good in that history, or put the past behind them, are more hurtful than helpful. For those who feel non-indigenous people are being blamed for the racism and prejudice of yesterday, a different feeling of discomfort is experienced. There can be a desire to claim the institutions we were taught to trust and revere had good intentions behind their bad decisions. This viewpoint hampers the path to healing. To that end, and in light of recent events, the Cariboo Regional District absolutely disagrees with the views on the impacts of residential schools shared by Williams Lake Mayor Walt Cobb.

The principles of reconciliation are guiding the Board Chair, Directors, and Staff of the CRD in the Regional District’s mandate of ‘building communities together.’ We believe it is the right approach to bring healing and create a framework for a better future. We will continue to work with First Nations, local municipalities, the province, and federal government to realize these important goals.

Mayor Walt Cobb not welcome in ?Esdilagh FN

Courtesy of ?Esdilagh (Alexandria) First Nation:

WL Council Responds to WLFN's Request for Clarification of its Position on Residential Schools

Courtesy of the City of Williams Lake:

At its Regular meeting on November 2, 2021, City of Williams Lake Council responded to correspondence from Williams Lake First Nation Chief Willie Sellars critical of a recent social media post shared by Williams Lake Mayor Walt Cobb on Friday, October 29 titled ‘Residential schools – the other side of the story.’

Mayor Cobb stated that he has never supported the concept of residential schools, and is aware of the heartbreak inflicted on First Nations communities. “I never anticipated or intend to offend or make light of residential schools, and for those I offended I apologize and am very sorry,” said Mayor Cobb. “The post share was my own, and it is not fair to involve the rest of Council in this discussion. Never at any time has this Council or any that I have been on ever suggested that the many atrocities that happened at any residential schools were acceptable. We can’t change the bad things that happened in history; we can only attempt to ensure they do not happen again, and we need to learn from them.”

At the meeting, Councillors shared their responses to this issue and collectively denounced the sharing of this post, and of any racist or intolerant actions. Councillors expressed their support for advocating for those who were forced to attend residential schools, their families and communities, and recognizing that while we cannot change the past, it is within our power to do better now. Williams Lake is the birthplace of Orange Shirt Day, and Councillors stated they must lead by example and make every effort to contribute to healing, understanding, and relationship building.

For the full discussion, please visit the City of Williams Lake’s recorded live stream of the Council meeting at: www.youtube.com/CityWL.

Following Council’s discussion, residential school survivor and advocate Charlene Belleau made a passionate presentation to provide context on the devastating impacts of residential schools, the investigation occurring at St. Joseph’s Mission and other investigations occurring across the country at former residential school sites. Belleau also talked about the impacts of those investigations – including how detrimental public comments can be to residential school survivors, their families, and communities. 

She encouraged Mayor and Council to continue to educate themselves on those impacts, to strive toward reconciliation and to do better. 

Council passed a resolution stating its official position that it recognizes and condemns the devastating effects of the 139 residential schools in Canada, and the abuse inflicted on innocent children. Further, Council resolved to continue to take meaningful steps to listen, learn, and advocate for victims and survivors of the residential school system.

In addition, Council passed a resolution that Council be guided by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s recommendations, and that they be included as a strategic goal through the Official Community Plan to help the community through reconciliation. 

Council has also committed by resolution to undertake an anti-racism cultural safety training program.

The City of Williams Lake remains committed to reconciliation efforts, and will continue to work toward relationship building, increased understanding and action in collaboration with our First Nations neighbours.

TNG calls for resignation of Williams Lake Mayor Walt Cobb

Courtesy of the Tsilhqot'in National Government:

The Tŝilhqot’in Nation is calling for the resignation of Walt Cobb, the Mayor of Williams Lake, after the Mayor shared a lengthy opinion piece on social media that purported to share the “other side” of residential schools, including such statements as “[t]he churches do not need to apologize for trying to educate the poor in the only system that would work for nomadic peoples” and “many of the new generations just want to be victims and feel the money would solve their pain”.

This is not an isolated incident for Mayor Cobb and the Williams Lake Council. In June 2020, Mayor Cobb and Councillor Marnie Brenner reportedly opined about the need to understand “both sides of the story” when it comes to residential schools, in discussions with Williams Lake First Nation about an unrelated matter. Despite efforts to educate Williams Lake City Council about the realities of the residential school system, and despite the confirmation of unmarked graves at Tk'emlúps residential school and other sites across Canada, and despite the active site investigation efforts at St. Joseph’s Mission in the area and the Indian Hospital and Day School grounds at Tl’etinqox, Mayor Cobb continues to deny and dismiss the trauma experienced at these institutions by First Nations peoples and families in Williams Lake and the surrounding communities.

This is irresponsible and unacceptable conduct for a mayor in 2021. The Tŝilhqot’in National Government (TNG) calls for the resignation of Mayor Cobb and encourages others – who can rightfully take pride in the region as the home of “Orange Shirt Day” – to join this call and demand new leadership and direction for the City of Williams Lake.

TNG Tribal Chair Joe Alphonse said:

Anywhere else in Canada, at any level of government, endorsing these types of comments about residential schools would disqualify you from public office. Why is it still acceptable in Williams Lake? Other regions of British Columbia and Canada are finally acknowledging the trauma of the residential schools and the ongoing impacts for our communities. Other regions are building relationships with First Nations peoples and communities – but not Mayor Cobb. This type of mentality has to end. It is an embarrassment to the City and the region. Mayor Cobb should finally make a positive contribution to reconciliation and resign as Mayor, immediately, and make room for the real leadership this region urgently needs. If Mayor Cobb does not resign, then Williams Lake Council should hold him accountable and fire him.” 

City of WL Response to Open Letter from WLFN Chief Willie Sellars

Courtesy of the City of Williams Lake:

In response to an open letter issued by Williams Lake First Nation Chief Willie Sellars critical of a recent social media post shared by Williams Lake Mayor Walt Cobb on Friday, October 29, the City of Williams Lake is addressing the matter sincerely and seriously.

Chief Sellars’ open letter to the City criticizes a social media post shared by Mayor Cobb on Friday morning, October 29, titled ‘Residential schools – the other side of the story.’ In the letter, Chief Sellars requests City of Williams Lake Council to clarify its position in relation to residential schools and their impact on First Nations people.

“We received the letter Friday and have had ongoing discussions throughout the weekend between City staff and members of Council, and we will be providing a formal response on Tuesday, November 2 during our regular Council meeting,” said City of Williams Lake Chief Administrative Officer Gary Muraca. “The City of Williams Lake takes this matter seriously, and continues to work toward meaningful reconciliation.”

The City of Williams Lake remains committed to reconciliation efforts in collaboration with our First Nations neighbours moving forward.

Condemnation of comments of WL Mayor W. Cobb re: Residential Schools

Yesterday evening - the Williams Lake Tribune reported on a Facebook post from Williams Lake Mayor Walt Cobb about residential schools/"other side of the story" -- you can read that here

Upon learning of this -- Williams Lake First Nation Kukpi7 (Chief) Willie Sellars issued an Open Letter to Williams Lake City Council about Mayor Cobb's Facebook post - read the letter here.  Kukpi7 Sellars has asked for a response from Williams Lake City Council by end of day on Monday, November 1st

The public response to the Facebook post of Mayor Cobb was swift and predictable -- widespread condemnation of the Facebook post.  As of the writing of this post -- the Williams Lake Tribune Facebook page had recorded 103 comments and 103 shares of the Tribune news story

In my opinion - the Facebook post of Mayor Cobb was a "gross error in judgement" and as Kukpi7 Sellars has appropriately noted:

"We (WLFN) can no longer abide the City of Williams Lake, or any of its elected officials, trying to advance a narrative which is a slap in the face to our community, to other First Nations communities, or to the vast majority of Canadians who acknowledge the horror of residential schools and who want to assist with reconciliation"

Put bluntly -- my Cariboo RD Area Alternate Director, Phyllis Webstad, is a residential school survivor and there is NO such thing as "other sides" in residential school horrors, particularly with the news coming from Kamloops and elsewhere across Canada about child graves at residential schools... 

I hope that Williams Lake City Council will reflect appropriately over the weekend and when responding to the letter of Williams Lake First Nation next week, it will do so with true reconciliation between Indigenous and Non Indigenous Canadians in mind -- both in writing and in person...

SF

Collaborative Design to Begin on a Permanent Commemoration for the Victims of Residential Schools

Joint Release from the City of Quesnel:

Quesnel City Council has unanimously dedicated the amphitheater park on St. Laurent Avenue adjacent to City Hall as a healing and gathering place and permanent commemoration for the victims of residential schools. The park will be redesigned in collaboration with the leadership, elders, and community members of the Lhtako Dene, Nazko, ?Esdilagh, and Lhoosk'uz Dene First Nations.

It is hoped that design will be completed early in 2022 and funding can be obtained to convert the park to a commemorative place by the 2022 National Day of Truth and Reconciliation.

Quesnel Mayor Bob Simpson:

"Quesnel City Council is committed to undertaking reconciliation initiatives with all of the First Nations that have traditional territory and historical ties to Quesnel, this particular project has very special meaning to Council as we try to do our part to educate the public about the negative impacts of residential schools and create a permanent learning, healing and gathering space for all our community members." 

?Esdilagh First Nation Chief Troy Baptiste:

"?Esdilagh First Nation is in support of more indigenous architectural symbolism being brought to the city of Quesnel. A gathering and healing spot is a good start however, more needs to be done to represent the bands whose traditional territory encompasses Quesnel. ?Esdilagh looks forward to the future projects that will be established, not only in the name of reconciliation but also to bring awareness to the public about the culture and traditions of the carrier and Tsilhqot’in people who call Quesnel their home.”

Lhoosk’uz Dene Chief Liliane Squinas:

"Some of our Lhoosk’uz Dene Nation members were the last students that attended the residential school prior to its closing (St Joseph’s Mission). These students had complained about the trauma experienced, yet nobody believed their story.  With this commemoration project, it’s a step towards acknowledgment that colonialism & forced removal of children done its damage. We should continue to work together on our path to healing.”

Nazko FN Chief Leah Stump:

"“Dahooja. I am beyond excited for the new memorial, we need to honour and uphold our survivors of the residential schools and those who didn’t make it home. We need to educate and have this information available so that everyone has a better understanding of what really happened. I am pleased to be moving towards reconciliation with the city of Quesnel  but most of all I am grateful to see a better path being paved for our future generations to come because that is who we are building and battling for"

Lhtako Dene FN Chief/Council:

"“The Lhtako Dene Nation is very pleased to see the dedication of the Amphitheater Park on St Laurent as a healing and gathering place and permanent commemoration for the victims of residential schools. This is an outstanding way to recognize the hurts that were realized by our people and to help in the achievement of the truth and reconciliation that is so needed by Indigenous peoples.”

 

Province names First Nations liaisons to support response on residential school sites

Courtesy of the Government of BC:

First Nations with former Indian Residential School and Indian Hospital sites in or near their communities can now access the B.C. residential school response fund, with the added support of two newly appointed First Nations liaisons.

“I acknowledge the trauma that Indigenous peoples continue to experience as a result of the colonial legacy of residential schools, and I grieve with the families and communities as we grapple with recent findings and the findings yet to come,” said the Hon. Murray Rankin, BC's Minister of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation. “We know it’s going to take time, technical resources and emotional and cultural supports to provide what Nations require to navigate this difficult time, and these funds and liaisons are designed to support them in whatever way they need.”

The Province has appointed Charlene Belleau and Lydia Hwitsum as First Nations liaisons, respected leaders who bring the experience, relationships and expertise needed to advance this important work.

“Today, we stand with former students, survivors, intergenerational survivors and their families,” Belleau said. “We are ready to support communities as they do the difficult work of honouring the spirits of the children who never came home. I am pleased to take on this role and support leaders, former students of residential schools and their families in their journey to bring truth, justice and healing.”

The liaisons will support caretaker communities to make connections with provincial and federal agencies, provide advice to the provincial government on activities related to former residential school and hospital sites, and serve as a crucial communications link between communities and the Province.

“This is an important step for B.C. to help support First Nations as we proceed with this important and heartfelt work,” Hwitsum said.

The $12-million fund announced last month to support work at former residential care sites is now open for expressions of interest from caretaker communities – those with former residential school or hospital sites in or near their communities. The Province will fast-track the review of these requests to make sure communities are able to access these resources when they are ready to undertake work at sites. No deadline is attached to the grants, and the Province will partner with communities at each step in their process to ensure funding is flexible, responsive and easy to access.   

There were 18 Indian Residential Schools and three Indian Hospitals in the province. Each caretaker community can receive up to $475,000 for each site, as needed, to support it through the steps of planning and carrying out site work.

The funding is for community-led strategies to identify, investigate, document, maintain, protect and/or commemorate sites where remains may be located, as well as to support the well-being of survivors and family members. The funding will be administered in close collaboration with the federal government to make sure communities can access all available resources to support them in this work.

The fund includes up to $2 million to ensure Indigenous service providers and survivor support networks have adequate resources to respond to immediate wellness, cultural and mental health needs of Indigenous peoples in B.C., including First Nations, Métis and those living in urban areas.

Learn More:

Details about the grant process and obtaining funding are available online: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/governments/indigenous-people/residential-school-response  

A map showing locations of Indian Residential Schools and Indian Hospitals in British Columbia is online:
https://news.gov.bc.ca/files/ResidentialSchools_Hospitals_Map.pdf

Support services for Indian residential school survivors in B.C.:

• First Nations Health Authority: https://www.fnha.ca/what-we-do/mental-wellness-and-substance-use/residential-schools
• The KUU-US Crisis Line Society provides a 24-hour, provincewide Indigenous crisis line for Indigenous peoples in B.C. Adults, call 250 723-4050. Children and youth, call 250 723-2040. Toll-free: 1 800 588-8717
• First Nations and Inuit Hope for Wellness Help Line for Indigenous people across Canada: Phone toll-free 1 855 242-3310 or chat online: https://www.hopeforwellness.ca/
• The Métis Crisis Line for Métis people in B.C., available 24 hours a day at 1 833 MétisBC: 1 833 638-4722
• Tsow Tun Le Lum for Indigenous peoples in B.C., phone: 1 888 403-3123
• Indian Residential School Survivors Society, phone: 1 800 721-0066 or 604 985-4464
• 24-Hour National Crisis Line for residential school survivors and others affected: 1 866 925-4419

Backgrounder on the First Nation Liaisons can be viewed here

WLFN announces direct contact line to share information regarding St. Joseph’s Mission

Courtesy of Williams Lake First Nation:

Williams Lake First Nation (WLFN) today announced that it is continuing to move forward with the preliminary investigation into the deaths and disappearances of Indigenous children at the former St. Joseph’s Mission Residential School. 

Archival research and a review of oral histories have begun, and comprehensive ground analysis of land surrounding the site is anticipated to begin in August. Preliminary support from both the Provincial and Federal governments have been received, and WLFN is moving forward in anticipation that it will soon conclude formal agreements regarding BC and Canada’s support for the investigation. 

“This is not something that we can sit back and wait on” asserts WLFN Chief, Wille Sellars. Our Council met with respected elders immediately after the Tkemlups te Secwepemc discovery. Our knowledge keepers communicated a strong desire to advance the analysis at St Joseph’s, emphasizing the necessity of careful protocol and ceremony. As caretaker of the traditional territory on which the St. Joseph’s Mission lies, WLFN will lead the search alongside a comprehensive team that includes community elders and cultural advisors, archaeological professionals, key WLFN technical staff and carefully selected professional partners. 

"We’ve taken the time and expended the energy to craft a carefully developed plan and now it’s time to execute that plan. It’s time for our community, and those around the Country and beyond, to know the truth of Saint Joseph’s Mission", further stated Chief Sellars

St. Joseph’s Mission was established in 1867 by the Catholic Oblate Oder in an area just south of the current community of Sugar Cane. In 1886, St. Joseph’s became an Indian Residential School and remained one until it was closed in 1981. WLFN further announced that the investigation into the deaths and disappearances of the Indigenous children at St. Joseph’s Mission will be fully documented as part of the WLFN work plan: 

“It’s critical that our members and others see the full story of what happened at St. Joseph’s Mission and the legacy that it has left for the families of all the children who attended that institution,” states SJM Project Manager, Whitney Spearing. With that in mind, we will be ensuring that there is a filmed record of our investigation. We’re in discussions with a documentary film producer, and anticipate that we will be in a position to release further details about that element of our program in the near future.” 

An email account has been created, which is intended to be a sole point of contact for community members and non-community members who wish to offer information or make inquiries in relation to the investigation at St. Joseph’s Mission. Those wishing to provide information relevant to the investigation at St. Joseph’s Mission should contact the following email address: sjmission@wlfn.ca

Leaders across Northern BC share vision/demand change in new report

Courtesy of the BC Wilderness Committee:

Interviews with 24 Indigenous and local government leaders from across northern British Columbia reveal a region eager for change but in need of support in a new in-depth report published by the Wilderness Committee.

Masters candidate and author of the report Megan Gordon from the University of Northern British Columbia spent six months asking northern leaders what they needed to successfully implement provincial goals around reconciliation and climate action. Northern Vision and Voices: What the region needs to thrive in a changing world is her summary and analysis.

“What we heard is northerners want a new approach to development in the region that values local knowledge and supports local priorities,” said Climate Campaigner Peter McCartney, who managed the project. “These leaders identified enormous opportunities but they need the resources, capacity and decision-making power to take advantage of them.”

Participants had strong words for the provincial government and its colonial approach to the North. They wanted to see profound changes in the distribution of wealth that originates in the region and how decisions are made that affect their communities. The report offers a number of options for public servants and policymakers to change existing power dynamics.

“Northerners have diverse and unique needs and local leaders are the ones who know what’s best for their communities,” said McCartney. “We heard it loud and clear. They want the province to provide funding and then get out of the way.”

While the provincial government has made substantial commitments on Indigenous rights and climate change, it has experienced significant setbacks largely due to conflicting priorities for the North. B.C.’s success in meeting its goals is dependent on its ability to ensure a bright future for the region. 

“Leaving people behind is not an option,” said McCartney. “Yes, these issues are complex, but we can have Indigenous sovereignty, a safe climate and thriving communities — we have no other choice.”

BC supports First Nations with residential school sites response

Courtesy of the Government of BC:

The British Columbia government has allocated $12 million to support First Nations throughout B.C. with investigative work at former residential school sites, as well as cultural and wellness supports for communities and members experiencing trauma from residential school site findings.

“Finding evidence of a burial site for children who attended the former Kamloops residential school was a stark reminder of the atrocities of the Canadian residential school system and how those continue to be felt to this day,” said the Hon. Murray Rankin, BC's Minister of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation. “Many other sites throughout the province and country are still the source of unanswered questions and terrible pain. It is imperative that we take our lead from First Nations as we move forward, and we will continue to act quickly and in a co-ordinated way to support their needs.”

The Province has been co-ordinating closely with Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada, Indigenous Services Canada and the First Nations Health Authority (FNHA) to support First Nation-led responses. This new provincial funding will support First Nations with community-led strategies to identify, investigate, document, maintain, protect and/or commemorate residential school sites where children’s remains may be located, as well as to provide community wellness, cultural and mental health supports.

The provincial and federal governments and the FNHA are working with a number of First Nations that have requested assistance to determine needs and next steps for searches at other sites, removing structures, providing resources for healing and identifying other supports. These include Tk’emlúps te Secwe̓pemc and Daylu Dena Council.

“The provision of these funds for immediate use by First Nations in the aftermath of discoveries of remains at residential school sites is an important first step in supporting the resiliency and healing of B.C. First Nations people,” said Charlene Belleau, chair, First Nations Health Council. “We acknowledge our B.C. government partners for this effort, as our communities honour the spirit of these lost children.”

In light of the pain that recent residential school findings are having on the health and well-being of Indigenous peoples, there is an identified need for mental, emotional and cultural supports for survivors, intergenerational survivors and communities as the most urgent priority.

“We are pleased to see the B.C. government’s commitment to supporting First Nations in this work,” said Richard Jock, CEO, FNHA. “Acknowledging trauma and the damaging and lasting impacts residential school have on First Nations people, their families and communities is a first step. The ongoing provision of culturally safe healing and wellness supports for B.C. First Nations must be communities-driven and Nation-based. This must be the primary focus going forward.”

The provincial and federal governments and the FNHA will work together to co-ordinate mental health and cultural supports for Indigenous peoples experiencing distress or trauma as a result of findings at residential schools. The new provincial funding will support healing for survivors and families in both Indigenous communities and urban areas.

More information on how First Nations can access the provincial funding for site investigation work and cultural and wellness supports will be shared in the coming days.

Support services for residential school survivors in B.C.:

• The KUU-US Crisis Line Society provides a 24-hour, provincewide Indigenous crisis line for Indigenous peoples in B.C.
  Adults, call 250 723-4050. Children and youth, call 250 723-2040. Toll-free: 1 800 588-8717
• First Nations and Inuit Hope for Wellness Help Line for Indigenous people across Canada:
  Phone toll-free 1 855 242-3310 or chat online: https://www.hopeforwellness.ca/
• The Métis Crisis Line for Métis people in B.C., available 24 hours a day at 1 833 MétisBC: 1 833 638-4722
• Tsow Tun Le Lum for Indigenous peoples in B.C., phone: 1 888 403-3123
• Indian Residential School Survivors Society, phone: 1 800 721-0066 or 604 985-4464
• 24-Hour National Crisis Line for residential school survivors and others affected: 1 866 925-4419

Quick Facts:

• There were 18 residential schools that operated in B.C.
• The first one to open in 1863 was St. Mary’s in Mission, which was also the last to close in 1984 after 121 years in operation.
• In addition to residential schools, there were more than 100 day schools and three Indian hospitals in Prince Rupert, Nanaimo and Sardis

A Way Forward/WL First Nation Announces Intent to Analyze St Joseph Residential School Site

Courtesy of the Williams Lake First Nation:

Less than two weeks after the horrific discovery of 215 unmarked graves on the site of the former Kamloops Residential School on the lands of the Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc (TteS), the Williams Lake First Nation (WLFN) has announced its strategy to undertake a comprehensive ground analysis of land surrounding the site of the former St. Joseph’s Mission Residential School. 

 Located just kilometres from the WLFN community core on WLFN IR#1 (commonly known as “Sugar Cane”), St Joseph’s Mission was operated as an Indian Residential School between 1886 and 1981. Thousands of Indigenous children were forced to attend the school, which was administered by the Catholic Oblates and part of the residential school system set up by the Government of Canada. The property on which St. Joseph’s is located, along with the adjacent ranch lands, are currently owned by a private landowner. Preliminary discussions with this landowner have indicated that they are supportive of WLFN’s desire to complete the search, which will employ the same ground penetrating radar technology that was used to discover the mass grave in Kamloops. WLFN Chief Willie Sellars reflected on the community’s healing journey since the painful discovery at TteS was announced on May 27, 2021: The last two weeks have been a whirlwind of emotion as longstanding scars have been painfully reopened within our community, our region, and throughout Canada. 

The legacy of St. Joseph’s extends well beyond WLFN, or even the Secwepemc, and has impact on the Tsilhqot’in, Dakelh and other aboriginal groups. Our leadership has taken time to gather input and carefully consider our approach and response in relation to the St Joseph’s Mission site, which is in the heart of our T’exelc territory. It is clear from discussions with elders in our community, and other communities, that there is considerable knowledge about the horrendous abuse and atrocities that took place in our backyard for nearly a century. 

It is time to complete the investigation and hopefully find some form of closure on this terrible chapter of Canadian history. Chief Sellars further acknowledged that he had been in communication with Marc Miller, Minister of Indigenous Services in the Federal Cabinet: Canada has acknowledged that funding support will be made available to Indigenous communities across the country once a formal proposal has been submitted to decision makers. We urge all levels of government to be solution oriented as we attempt to more clearly understand the scope of the residential school atrocities and endeavour to move forward on this healing journey. We encourage the citizens of this country to continue to stand with our survivors and leaders, especially on June 21, 2021 during National Aboriginal Day, so that we can jointly hold responsible the governments and religious groups involved in the administration of Canadian residential schools. This accountability includes providing access to records so that we identify any children who might have disappeared at St. Joseph’s Mission. 

 WLFN Councillor Chris Wycotte echoed these comments, suggesting that a pending analysis of the grounds of St Joseph’s Mission must be led by strong cultural protocols, state-of-the art technology, and with the utmost respect and compassion for affected Indigenous people across the region: Our Council met with respected elders immediately after the TteS discovery. 

Our knowledge keepers communicated a strong desire to advance the analysis at St Joseph’s, emphasizing the necessity of careful protocol and ceremony that our ancestors could be proud of. Since the TteS announcement, WLFN has held three distinct ceremonies, including an inclusive community ceremony in Williams Lake at Williams Lake Secondary School, a four-day sacred fire held at the Sugar Cane Arbour, and a private ceremony at St. Joseph’s Mission that included cultural leaders from Secwepemc, Southern Dakelh, and Tsilhqot’in communities. WLFN Councillor Shawna Philbrick remarked: Not all communities in the region will support our stance of being patient, respectful and being led by cultural practice and protocol. Our Elders have reminded us that there is nothing political about honouring our lost loved ones. Empathy, compassion, and honouring our ancestors’ knowledge will give our community strength as we advance this important search. 

We stand with the Tsilhqot’in, Dakelh and all other nations that were impacted by the atrocities at St. Joseph’s and promise that we will be tireless in our pursuit of truth and justice. WLFN leadership has indicated that the search will be led by a comprehensive team that includes community elders and cultural advisors, archaeological professionals, key WLFN technical staff and carefully selected professional partners.

Accelerating Reconciliation Efforts

Courtesy of the City of Quesnel:

Editor's Note -- this week's Quesnel City Council column is written by Quesnel Mayor Bob Simpson.  He can be reached via email here

The discovery of a mass grave at the Kamloops Residential School containing the remains of 215 children’s bodies should not surprise anyone who has been paying attention to the terrible legacy of Canada’s attempt to extinguish aboriginal culture and language; but it should still shock, disgust, and disturb us.

The archival documentation for the Kamloops school, Canada’s largest residential school, suggested that 51 children may have been buried there, but the elders and leaders of the Tk'emlúps te Secwepemc First Nation knew the available documentation grossly understated the number of children who had actually disappeared at that school, and this past weekend their worst fears have been realized.

But, being shocked and disturbed is not enough. We need to double down on our efforts at reconciliation, and redress with the people who were here long before European settlers “discovered” Canada. And, we need to make every effort to reverse the negation of First Nations’ history and culture by taking steps to restore aboriginal language, naming, and ownership of the land they never ceded.

The Kamloops revelation should also be a reminder to us that the City of Quesnel was literally built on the bones of the Lhtako Dene. The Lhtako Dene was one of BC’s largest settled First Nations populations prior to contact and they were reduced to a few hundred people as a direct result of the diseases and lifestyle introduced to them by the early explorers and settlers -- including those heading to the goldfields that some think is Quesnel’s “true heritage.” The ancestral remains of the numerous Lhtako Dene who died as a result of contact with European settlers are buried in both mass and individual graves throughout the City.

The discovery of skeletal remains during the early phase of the G.R. Baker Hospital addition is a stark reminder of the sensitivities associated with land development and disturbance in Quesnel. Fortunately, Northern Health, the City of Quesnel, and the Lhtako Dene were all alive to the potential of discovering ancestral remains during the initial land disturbance phase of this project and Northern Health took steps to ensure that Lhtako Dene First Nation elders were engaged in blessing the construction site, and that the Lhtako Dene was apprised of the discovery and engaged in the process of reinterring the remains in an appropriate and respectful manner.

The City of Quesnel is learning from the way Northern Health and Lhtako Dene First Nation have collaborated on the hospital addition project. While the City has a signed protocol agreement with the Lhtako Dene, we’re still learning together how to actually implement the spirit and intent of that agreement with each initiative and project. Currently, we’re exploring ways to deepen our base assessment of the cultural and historical significance of the land the city is built upon in order to create a better foundation for making development decisions in the future.   

As residents, we should also be prepared to accept (better yet, embrace) the restoration of Southern Carrier language in our community and the renaming of places in a manner that recaptures the Lhtako’s and other First Nations’ millennium-long association with those places pre-contact. The City is working with the Lhtako Dene, the Southern Dakelh Nation Alliance, ?Esidalgh First Nation, and the Tsilquot’in on a number of projects that, together, we hope will restore and highlight First Nations language, history, and culture in our community.

As we reflect upon the news of the children’s remains discovered at the Kamloops Residential School, let’s commit to embracing what is needed here at home to restore First Nations culture and language throughout our City.

WL Indian Band demands BOTH an apology from WL City Council & resignation of WL City Councillor Marnie Brenner

Courtesy of the Williams Lake First Nation:

Editor's Note -- This is the first time in either following or being involved in local government (going back to the 2000's) that I can recall an indigenous government calling for the resignation of a member from a non-indigenous local government (Mayor, Councillor, Area Director or School Trustee) in the Cariboo-Chilcotin region.  However, having said that, I can respect why the Williams Lake First Nation would be upset with the comments of Williams Lake City Councillor Marnie Brenner.  Full Disclosure: I voted for Councillor Brenner in the October 2018 City of Williams Lake Local General Election as I felt that she would be a good fit on Williams Lake City Council

For the full context of the discussion at last night's Williams Lake City Council meeting on this subject, click here

Williams Lake Indian Band Council today expressed shock and frustration over the comments made by members of City of Williams Lake Council with respect to residential schools at the open Council meeting of June 16, 2020, and called for the resignation of one member of City Council. 

Speaking on the topic of reconciliation, Councillor Marnie Brenner asserted that “there are always two sides”. Councillor Brenner then states that when some residential schools, such as in Riske Creek, were shut down there were First Nation people who were “disappointed that they had to leave residential school because they had a pool there.” Mayor Cobb then adds, “and a hockey team.” 

“It’s shocking, upsetting and offensive,” states WLIB Councillor JoAnne Moiese, “that in 2020 any elected officials would try to downplay the importance of reconciliation, or a local government’s obligations in relation to reconciliation, by suggesting that residential schools weren’t really such a bad thing. 

Our community, and First Nations communities across the country, are still struggling to overcome the impacts of residential schools. Children were ripped from their homes, they were stripped of their culture and language and they were physically and sexually abused. The reality, though, is that there was only one residential school in this area – St. Joseph’s. Apparently Councillor Brenner isn’t aware of that.” 

“It disturbs me that anyone would attempt to diminish the impact that residential schools had on First Nations communities,” adds WLIB Councillor Rick Gilbert, “We hear people say things like ‘just get over it, it wasn’t such a big deal’. Clearly those people are not understanding the gravity of the issue or the impacts it has had on Canadian society for generations now. People need to educate themselves about the realities of this piece of Canadian history, and it’s very encouraging that there will finally be some curriculum content in the school system.” 

In 2015, the Government of Canada released the final report of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada (“TRC”) which was the result of more than six years of investigation and inquiry into the impacts of residential school on the indigenous people of Canada. The report documented the death of more than 3,200 First Nation children in residential school “care”-- although the TRC Chair, Justice Murray Sinclair, has suggested that the number of deaths is likely closer to 6000. The report unequivocally condemns the residential school system, stating, “children were abused, physically and sexually, and they died in the schools in numbers that would not have been tolerated in any school system anywhere in the country, or in the world.” 

“Enough is enough,” states WL Indian Band Chief Willie Sellars. “Can you imagine if a government official in the United States stood up and said that slavery wasn’t such a bad thing because black Americans were fed and had a roof over their heads? There would be incredible outrage, and rightfully so. We are in an era where the vast majority of people, including elected officials, are working hard to acknowledge the problems of the past and to root out systemic discrimination. 

The fact that Councillor Brenner is herself a First Nations individual makes it even worse. We are calling for Councillor Brenner to resign as a member of the City of Williams Lake Council. We’re further asking that the entire City of Williams Lake Council issue an apology to the First Nations people of Canada.”