[antiwar-van] Note from secwepemc territories

[noii-van at resist.ca]

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 at 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