The kʷikʷəƛ̓əm Nation are working to rewrite our history and decolonize. We are seeking to heal from the past and work together as one community, with one heart and one mind, and in accordance with our ancestors’ values to rebuild our Nation.
There has been recent progress by governments to finally recognize the rights of Indigenous People. The United Nations Declaration of the Rights of Indigenous People (UNDRIP), adopted by the General Assembly on September 13, 2009, was an important first step. Today, it has the support of 148 countries around the world, including Canada although the federal government has yet to formally adopt their principles into law.
The Truth and Reconciliation Commission confirms that the UNDRIP should be the framework for reconciliation with Indigenous People in Canada.
In 2019, the Government of British Columbia formally adopted the principles of UNDRIP by creating a new law called the Declaration of the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (DRIPA). So far, BC is the only Canadian province or territory to adopt the principles of the UNDRIP into law. In March 2022, the Province of BC also issued a five-year action plan on how they would implement DRIPA in the province. For more information, visit their website.
The Nation embraces working with those who share our commitment to the principles of Indigenous rights outlined in UNDRIP and DRIPA.
As we look to the future, we will continue to work towards proceeding as an organized, prosperous and self-reliant nation. We raise our hands to the ancestors, Elders and community members who guide us, and all those who work in support of the continued success of our Nation.
Strengthening and updating our self-governance policies and laws.
Asserting our Indigenous Rights and Titles by filing a land title claim with the Supreme Court of British Columbia and issuing a Declaration of Economic Land Right.
(George Chaffee, kʷikʷəƛ̓əm Councillor)