REPORT BY TK̓WENEM7ÍPLE7 VICKI
Background:
In 1999 Secwepemc Leadership approved the creation of a legal entity that would be the venue for asserting our Secwepemc rights and jurisdiction over the care of our children and families. Secwepemc Child and Family Services was formed. Over the years and for many reasons, the entity became a delegated agency implementing BC law. Our goal is to implement Secwepemc Law.
In 2009 Secwepemc leadership unanimously supported a declaration to assert our jurisdiction for the benefit of our children and families.
In 2010-2013 – research and planning was conducted for the development and revitalization of our Secwepemc Law.
The Goal of TteS Chief and Council since 2009 was to assert full jurisdiction over children and family services based on our own Secwepemc Laws. On December 19, 2024, Kukpi7 and Tkwenem7iple’s made this goal a reality by signing a Band Council Resolution adopting the Stsmémelt and Kw’séltkten Law.
The law is based upon principles guided by Secwepemc stories and our oral traditions as told by our Elders. There are six Secwepemc Stories that define our Stsmémelt and Kw’séltkten Law that will be shared with community at a future presentation.
Total jurisdiction over the care of our children and families based on our own Secwepemc Laws is so exciting.
There is much to share about TteS adopting the Stsmémelt and Kw’séltkten Law and future Lexéy’em Articles will address “what does adopting the Stsmémelt and Kw’séltkten Law mean for TteS moving forward?”
COUNCILLOR VICKI MANUEL
Primary Portfolios:
Community Service and Membership
Secondary Portfolio:
Education and Four Pillars
Vicki W. Manuel, from Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc, is a mother of 3 adult daughters, grandmother to Aveah and living with her partner Peter in beautiful Tk̓emlúps. Previously Vicki managed Le Estcwicwéy̓ (the Missing – 215+) and was a project developer and planner for the First Nation Health Authority (FNHA). From 2003 to 2009, Vicki served two terms on Tk̓emlúps Chief and Council. Vicki also had her own consulting business and has supported Indigenous organizations in Planning and Project Management. Vicki earned a Master’s degree in Community Development from the University of Victoria and a Bachelor of General Studies in First Nation Administration and Leadership, with a minor in First Nations Studies, from Simon Fraser University. Passionate about culture, education, health and family. Vicki is excited and passionate about supporting her community through community led initiatives.