A new letter signed Friday (May 12) between the WSANEC Leadership Council and the provincial government represents “an important change” in working on tackling important issues.
The letter of understanding sets out several priority issues for WSANEC, which includes Tsartlip and Tseycum First Nations. Those topics include recognition of Douglas Treaty Rights and implementation; acquisition of lands; education; wildlife harvesting; revenue sharing; and engagement with BC Ferries, the Royal B.C. Museum and local governments.
“This letter of understanding signals an important change in the relationship between WSANEC and the provincial government,” said Chief Dom Tom, president of the WSANEC Leadership Council. “Seven generations of WSANEC have pushed for meaningful discussions on the issues which continue to negatively impact the lives and livelihoods of our people. Today, British Columbia and the WSANEC Leadership Council have made a commitment to have those discussions, in conjunction with the federal government, and we look forward to working together to create a better future for our WSANEC communities.”
Thank you to the W̱SÁNEĆ Leadership Council for hosting us today on the territory of the @TsartlipNation B.C. is excited to start a new chapter in the relationship with the W̱SÁNEĆ Peoples to create a better future and work towards #Reconciliation. @wsanecleaders pic.twitter.com/ofyRLITHLi
— Murray Rankin (@MurrayRankinNDP) May 12, 2023
“This a significant step in building a strong relationship with the WSANEC Leadership Council, and creates further opportunities for B.C. to engage with the WSANEC Leadership Council on priorities,” said Murray Rankin, the province’s minister of Indigenous relations and reconciliation. “I raise my hands to all those involved and I am excited to start a new chapter in the relationship with the WSANEC Peoples.”
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