Tag Archives: Tk’emlups te Secwépemc

WLFN-owned company brings a decolonial lens to archaeology: ‘We need Indigenous knowledge’

Editor’s opinion: The author writes of the need for First Nation’s knowledge and traditions to have more of a voice in archaeology. I think this is true of traditions around the world, including Europe and the Middle East. 

By Dionne Phillips, The Wren, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

On a recent archaeological exploration for the Cariboo Memorial Hospital project in Williams Lake, Demetrius George discovered a small, ancient rock tool in the dirt. 

The fine-grained volcanic artifact is very sharp, he explains, but doesn’t seem to be made for scraping deer hide — rather, for smaller jobs, such as cutting string. 

Continue reading WLFN-owned company brings a decolonial lens to archaeology: ‘We need Indigenous knowledge’

Regulator approves TMX plan to trench through ‘extremely sacred’ Secwépemc site

Editor’s note: Another example of the conflict between industry and First Nations Sacred sites.

By Aaron Hemens, IndigiNews, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

A Secwépemc knowledge-keeper is outraged after Trans Mountain was given approval from Canada’s energy regulator to trench through an important cultural site to build its pipeline expansion — calling the project colonialism personified.

“Evil is putting it lightly,” said Mike McKenzie, who is from Skeetchestn.

Continue reading Regulator approves TMX plan to trench through ‘extremely sacred’ Secwépemc site

Acclaimed First Nations healer and therapist wins Reconciliation Award

Canada’s National Observer, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

After leaving residential school in the late 1950s, Klith-waa-taa would wade into a frigid river to brush himself with sacred cedar branches, cleansing away the trauma and negativity imposed upon him as a child. 

The traditional practice he learned as a boy at his grandfather’s side became vital to Klith-waa-taa, or Dr. Barney Williams, during his healing and path to sobriety at age 26 in 1965. 

“We would go into a river to bathe and ask for strength, but also to ask the Creator to look out for other people that needed help,” said Williams. 

“We usually go for four rounds in the water. The last round is for yourself — the first three are for other people.” 

Continue reading Acclaimed First Nations healer and therapist wins Reconciliation Award

Jody Wilson-Raybould awarded Order of B.C. for being ‘a force for change’

National Observer, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Jody Wilson-Raybould is among 14 outstanding British Columbians awarded the province’s highest honour on Monday for exceptional contributions to society. 

The Order of British Columbia is often granted in the twilight of an illustrious career, but Wilson-Raybould, Canada’s first federal Indigenous justice minister and twice-elected regional chief of the BC Assembly of First Nations, is just hitting her stride as she continues to be a force for reconciliation in Canada. 

Continue reading Jody Wilson-Raybould awarded Order of B.C. for being ‘a force for change’

The Columbia River Treaty today

By Chadd Cawson, The Columbia Valley Pioneer, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

In a recent article by the Pioneer, one looked at the history of the Columbia River Treaty and its implications. 2024 will mark the 60-year point since the U.S. prepaid Canada $64 million to ensure flood control operations would be provided. This Treaty remains in place until one party gives a 10-year termination notice, however, its guidelines have been evolving more recently.

Continue reading The Columbia River Treaty today