Invitation to Secwepemc Territories

August 26, 2004

 

Skwelkwek’welt Protection Center

P.O Box 837

Chase, British Columbia V0E 1M0

Phone (250) 679-3052

Fax: (250) 679-3056

Email: jrbilly@mail.ocis.net

 

 

INVITATION TO SECWEPEMC TERRITORIES

 

 

We, the traditional Secwepemc peoples, thank you for accepting our invitation to all organizations, groups and individuals who have supported and continue to support us in our struggle to assert Aboriginal Title and rights over our traditional territories.

 

On the weekend of August 28-29, we will be hosting a convergence on Secwepemc territories to educate supporters about the fight against Sun Peaks development and the unsettled land issue of the Secwepemc Nation as well other unceded territories in British Columbia.

 

Sun Peaks resort is built on Secwepmc territories, land that has never been ceded, released or surrendered. The BC government and Sun Peaks therefore has no jurisdiction over the Secwepemc people or our lands. Despite the recognition of the inherent land rights of Aboriginal People as Aboriginal Title in Delgaamukw and despite the Haida decision that requires provincial interests to consult, obtain consent and accommodate Aboriginal interests prior to pursuing development on Aboriginal territories, federal and provincial governments still insist indigenous peoples must prove their Title within the court system rather than abiding by the principle of Title itself.

 

Acting under the direction of Tqelt Kukpi through the teachings of Coyote, as well as the direction of traditional elders and land-users, we have consistently occupied and used land, building homes and structures well within the original territory of the Secwepemc Nation, thus asserting and exercising our Aboriginal rights and Title.

 

We are honoured to have all our supporters gather within our traditional territory and the 1862 Neskonlith Douglas reserve. We thank you for the strong stand you are taking in supporting us to protect our traditional lands and way of life for future generations. Through such gatherings and building such networks, we can build stronger alliances between our communities and our common vision of a more just existence where our rights are respected.

 

We look forward to meeting you all soon.

 

Irene Billy- Elder of the Camp

Sarah Deneault, Elder

Janice Billy- spokesperson Skwelkwek’welt Protection Center