VANCOUVER – Premier Christy Clark, Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation Minister John Rustad and senior provincial officials met with the Tsilhqot’in Nation chiefs this week in Vancouver to begin preliminary discussions around the Tsilhqot’in Title decision, to redress the past and continue building a positive relationship.
“Sept. 3 was a historic meeting in our eyes as Tsilhqot’in leaders. This October 26, 2014, marks 150 years since we as Tsilhqot’in began a tumultuous relationship with government during the Chilcotin War of 1864,” said Chief Joe Alphonse, tribal chairman of Tsilhqot’in national government and Tl’etinqox chief. “We are optimistic that a different path is possible. The premier demonstrated the possibility of this on Sept. 3, hopefully setting an example for the federal government’s approach to First Nations’ rights, goals and interests.”
Premier Clark has accepted an invitation to visit Tsilhqot’in Title land in the coming weeks to understand and experience Tsilhqot’in culture and traditions. Plans have also been made to redress the unjust hanging of six Tsilhqot’in chiefs during the Chilcotin War of 1864.
“These discussions were a good first step towards strengthening our relationship with the Tsilhqot’in Nation,” the premier said. “The important recent ruling from the Supreme Court of Canada confirms the path forward must be taken in partnership, with respect and recognition. We are committed to taking the next step towards securing a more prosperous, just future for the Tsilhqot’in Nation and all British Columbians – together.”
The Tsilhqot’in Nation and the province are continuing to work towards an agreement to reconcile the rights, interests and mutual goals of the province and the Tsilhqot’in Nation in the title area and throughout the Tsilhqot’in territory.
Chief Roger William, vice chairman of Tsilhqot’in national government and chief of Xeni Gwet’in commented, “This first step was necessary to begin the transition of Tsilhqot’in Title lands to Tsilhqot’in management and control. Premier Christy Clark showed a serious commitment to move forward with the recent Supreme Court of Canada decision.
“I think about our 26 Elders who testified, nine of whom have passed, and am grateful for their courage. They are who we as leaders gather strength from. The premier visiting our peoples onTitle lands in the coming weeks, being involved with our Lhatsassin Memorial Day and signing a formal agreement with the Tsilhqot’in, are the first steps in reconciling the past and recognizing the future.”
