Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc

JOINT REPORT BY TK̓WENEM7ÍPLE7 VICKI AND KUKPI7 ROSANNE

On January 15, 2025, Chief & Council toured the new AgeCare Sun Rivers facility. This visit allowed us to connect with the addition to the Sun River’s Community, offering insights into daily life for residents and staff. We were delighted to share a meal of salmon and break Bannock together allowing ample time to get to know our new neighbour in the community, Salimah Walji-Shivji, CEO of AgeCare. We have learned of many opportunities of mutual benefit.

The atmosphere was warm and welcoming, providing meaningful insight that highlighted the importance of Elder care. It’s reassuring to know that residents are being well cared for in a supportive environment that welcomes family, tours, and opportunities for cultural and educational experiences all while providing care and support for Elders to live their best lives. A highlight of this day was getting to connect with our Elder, Delores Jules.

Tk̓wenem7íple7 Vicki looks forward to sharing many upcoming opportunities and your TteS Chief and Council team look forward to building relationships with them to learn and utilize some best practices as we move forward to building our own Elder’s Lodge.

KÚKPI7 ROSANNE CASIMIR

Primary Portfolio:
Public Relations & External Affairs/Legal (DS, DRI)

Kukpi7 Rosanne Casimir, Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc, is strong and confident leader who leads by example for future generations; she also serves as Tribal Chief for the Shuswap Nation Tribal Council and as a Board Director for the British Columbia Assembly of First Nations. With 14+ years of service, she is committed to advancing community-driven initiatives that support self-determination, sustainable growth, and economic sovereignty. Kukpi7 Rosanne holds her hands up and acknowledges past and current leadership.

REPORT BY KÚKPI7 ROSANNE

On January 10, 2025, Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc (TteS) leadership met with senior representatives of the British Columbia Lottery Corporation (BCLC) in our Council Chambers. The purpose of this meeting was to facilitate introductions and provide orientation for the newly elected Kúkpi7 Rosanne Casimir and Tkwenem7íple7 (councillors). It also served as a platform to strengthen the relationship between TteS and BCLC by reviewing past progress and outlining future collaborative opportunities.

The meeting agenda included a short presentation by BCLC covering its role, key facts, social purpose, and commitment to Indigenous reconciliation. Special emphasis was placed on BCLC’s ongoing reconciliation efforts and the progress achieved through its partnership with TteS. Both parties engaged in a roundtable discussion, focusing on next steps and potential future meetings to further their partnership. This gathering marked an important step in fostering continued mutual respect and collaboration.

KÚKPI7 ROSANNE CASIMIR

Primary Portfolio:
Public Relations & External Affairs/Legal (DS, DRI)

Kukpi7 Rosanne Casimir, Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc, is strong and confident leader who leads by example for future generations; she also serves as Tribal Chief for the Shuswap Nation Tribal Council and as a Board Director for the British Columbia Assembly of First Nations. With 14+ years of service, she is committed to advancing community-driven initiatives that support self-determination, sustainable growth, and economic sovereignty. Kukpi7 Rosanne holds her hands up and acknowledges past and current leadership.

A meeting was held on December 13, 2024, with the Four Pillars Society. Attendees included Kúkpi7 Rosanne Casimir, Tk̓wenem7íple7 Dave Manuel, Tk̓wenem7íple7 Vicki Manuel, Jeanette Jules (Manager, Le Estcwicwéy̓ – The Missing), Fred Seymour (Grassroots – C&C Liaison, Manager, Le Estcwicwéy̓ – The Missing), Shane Gottfriedson (Board Member), and Travis Anderson (Chief Financial Officer, TteS).

HISTORY

In 2012, members of the Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc and shíshálh Nation led by Shane Gottfriedson and Garry Feschuk launched a national class action lawsuit for day scholars who were left out of the original Indian Residential Schools Settlement Agreement from 2006. After 9 years, a $2.8-billion-dollar settlement was awarded in 2021 for the class action lawsuit concerning Day School Scholars. Initially filed by the Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc and shíshálh Nation in British Columbia, plaintiffs in the case have developed a disbursement plan for the funds. There are 325 Indigenous Nations across Canada that are represented in this class action lawsuit. This plan initially combined the band reparations claim (referred to as the band class) and the residential school day scholars claim. Day scholars, survivors who were compelled to attend institutions during the day but returned home at night, were excluded from the 2006 residential school settlement.

PURPOSE OF THE FOUR PILLARS SOCIETY

Each of the 325 First Nations that joined the lawsuit will receive an initial one-time payment of $200,000 for the purposes of developing a plan to carry out a 10-year plan for the revitalization of their language and culture, structured around the four pillars. The fund will operate for a period of 20 years.

The Four Pillars:

1. The revival and protections of Indigenous language
2. The revival and protection of Indigenous culture
3. The protections and promotion of heritage
4. The wellness of Indigenous communities and their members.

Weyt-kp xwexwéytep (hello to everyone)

Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc Chief and Council extend their warm wishes to each of you; Lé7es ke7 sw7ecs ne Xyum te Sitq̓t ell ts7écwes re tsítslem te swucwt (Wishing you a wonderful holiday season and a joyous New Year).

During this special time, we encourage everyone to take care of one another. As we enter this holiday season, remember that each of us may be navigating something different. Let us check in on one another, share kindness, and make space for light and laughter. Le7es k sw7éc-emp ne sqilqélt te sw7ec (Be well on this holiday to you all).

We extend our spirit and kindness to you and your families this holiday season. As we reflect on 2024, we can all be proud of the accomplishments, celebrations, and connections we have built and created with one another. The road ahead looks promising, and we look forward to an even brighter 2025.

May we continue to walk this path forward together.
Qilqéltes k sw7éc-emp (Happy Holidays to you all).

Yours Truly,
Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc
Kukpi7 (Chief) Rosanne Casimir
On Behalf of Council

REPORT BY TK̓WENEM7ÍPLE7 NIKKI FRASER

I’m honoured to be supporting the work our Language and Culture (L&C) Department team this term as the Primary Portfolio holder.

Most recently I’m happy to participate in the song sharing circle, this circle is a safe space to learn our songs in a good way. We have many talented singers in our community and happy they are in the circle to share songs. The Song Sharing Circles are hosted every Tuesday night, a light dinner and drinks provided. We had over 20+ members join the circle. What is really heartwarming is seeing and listening to our youth take a lead in our songs. The first few sessions we learned the Welcome Song and Honour song, now we are currently learning the Pitt house song. I encourage all members to come and participate in the Song Sharing Circle.

The L&C team are creating education videos for members to access. The most recent educational video L&C recorded was a meat processing video. Our Culture Assistant Manager, Greg Ferguson, showed our youth how to process a deer. The youth helped process and package the meat. I went to support this education workshop and see how engaged our youth were in this workshop. I just want to acknowledge the L&C team for creating space to pass on traditional knowledge to young people.

COUNCILLOR NIKKI FRASER

Primary Portfolios:
Natural Resources / Rights & Title / Language & Culture / Archaeology

Secondary Portfolio:
Lands, Leasing & Taxation / Sc.wén̓wen

Nikki is a grassroots member of Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc (TteS), with strong ties to both the Fraser and Paul Grassroot families. Nikki is proud mom to Trey, Aiyana, and Nipiy. She has worked for TteS in many different capacities since she was 15 years old. Nikki brings experience, knowledge and tools from her volunteer elected roles at BC Native Women’s Association, Native Women’s Association of Canada and the United Nations Youth Envoys office. Nikki is honoured to server her community & membership and continues her passion advocating and upholding TteS Rights and Title.

REPORT BY KÚKPI7 ROSANNE

On December 6, 2024, TteS Chief and Council participated in governance training session led by Dan George. As we explored the vast topic of First Nations governance, we explore many important themes and leading principles such as ethics, effective leadership, and accountability. The discussions were full of learning from one another as well as sharing perspectives that are specifically relevant to TteS and our goals as a community and organization. By working with one another, we deepen our understanding and strengthen our shared commitment to working together in a good way. Aligning and being guided by our Secwépemc values will always be at the forefront of our collective approach to leadership.

By grounding our efforts in strategic and succession planning, we ensure that our actions are aligned with long-term goals and the well-being of our community. This training reinforced our dedication to fostering a governance structure that reflects our values and supports our people. Together, we move forward with a renewed focus on collaboration, trust, and the shared vision of a strong and resilient future.

KÚKPI7 ROSANNE CASIMIR

Primary Portfolio:
Public Relations & External Affairs/Legal (DS, DRI)

Kukpi7 Rosanne Casimir, Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc, is strong and confident leader who leads by example for future generations; she also serves as Tribal Chief for the Shuswap Nation Tribal Council and as a Board Director for the British Columbia Assembly of First Nations. With 14+ years of service, she is committed to advancing community-driven initiatives that support self-determination, sustainable growth, and economic sovereignty. Kukpi7 Rosanne holds her hands up and acknowledges past and current leadership.

REPORT BY KÚKPI7 ROSANNE

On November 29, 2024 Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc, Kamloops Fire Rescue and the City of Kamloops came together for the firetruck push. This event was to commemorate our TteS symbol being added to all of the firetrucks that serve our communities daily. The gathering brought together TteS Chief & Council, City Council, our Elders, and community members to celebrate this meaningful collaboration.

This partnership reflects a shared commitment to safety, inclusion, and unity. A special thank you goes to the Fire Chief and Kamloops Fire Rescue staff for their hard work and dedication in serving our communities.

Emergency management and preparedness remain key priorities for Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc. Having our community’s symbol proudly displayed on all fire trucks is a powerful gesture of solidarity and respect. Today’s event showcased the strength of our relationships and our dedication to protecting and serving both communities. Seeing everyone come together was truly inspiring. On behalf of TteS and our Fire Chief Youth Representative, Tyson Peters, we extend our appreciation to everyone who participated and attended the firetruck push.

KÚKPI7 ROSANNE CASIMIR

Primary Portfolio:
Public Relations & External Affairs/Legal (DS, DRI)

Kukpi7 Rosanne Casimir, Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc, is strong and confident leader who leads by example for future generations; she also serves as Tribal Chief for the Shuswap Nation Tribal Council and as a Board Director for the British Columbia Assembly of First Nations. With 14+ years of service, she is committed to advancing community-driven initiatives that support self-determination, sustainable growth, and economic sovereignty. Kukpi7 Rosanne holds her hands up and acknowledges past and current leadership.

REPORT BY KÚKPI7 ROSANNE

National Indigenous Veterans Day Ceremony took place on November 8 and Remembrance Day Ceremony took place on November 11.

National Indigenous Veterans Day holds immense significance in Canada as a day dedicated to honoring the invaluable contributions and sacrifices of Indigenous veterans in the country’s military history. These courageous men and women, from diverse Indigenous communities, have long served alongside their fellow Canadians in times of conflict, demonstrating unwavering dedication and resilience. National Indigenous Veteran’s Day serves as a crucial platform for fostering a deeper understanding of the Indigenous experience. It’s a poignant reminder of the profound respect and gratitude owed to these Indigenous veterans who have made significant sacrifices to uphold the principles of peace, freedom, and democracy.

TteS Council members joined me in welcoming many special guests. The ceremonies featured heartfelt contributions from our community, Elder Russell Casimir started off in a good way with opening prayer, Elder Freda Jules singing the Bear Honour Song, and Jackie Jules singing O Canada in Secwepemctsín. We thank our many guests joining us in honouring members who served in the WWI, Boer War, WWII, Home Guard, Iraq Conflict (USA), and those killed in Action. We also acknowledge our 2 surviving veterans who fought for our freedom along with a community member who is currently serving. War Veterans: Irene Campbell and I’sha Jules, and Madison Marissa Jules George. Angelina Christina Campbell, a leading aircraft Woman, served in the Airforce in peace time for 3 years; I’sha Jules, a Sargent that served in the Iraq Freedom Conflict, served in the Army for 9 years; and Sailor Second Class Madisson Marissa Jules George who is currently serving on the HMCS Regina-Frigate Ship as a Naval Combat Information Operator in the Combat Department.

We are proud of them, their services, and their contributions. Kukwstsétselp to those who attended and contributed to these ceremonies. And the biggest and most heartfelt kukwstép-kucw to our Indigenous and non-Indigenous Veterans for their dedication and sacrifice.

KÚKPI7 ROSANNE CASIMIR

Primary Portfolio:
Public Relations & External Affairs/Legal (DS, DRI)

Kukpi7 Rosanne Casimir, Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc, is strong and confident leader who leads by example for future generations; she also serves as Tribal Chief for the Shuswap Nation Tribal Council and as a Board Director for the British Columbia Assembly of First Nations. With 14+ years of service, she is committed to advancing community-driven initiatives that support self-determination, sustainable growth, and economic sovereignty. Kukpi7 Rosanne holds her hands up and acknowledges past and current leadership.

The results are in! Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc Election Day took place on November 9, 2024, and the following individuals have been elected for the next term:

Kúkpi7
Rosanne Casimir

Tk̓wenem7íple7

1. Thomas Blank
2. Nikki Fraser
3. Boyd Gottfriedson
4. Daylin Malloy
5. Vicki Manuel
6. Dave Manuel
7. Myron Thomas

For any questions regarding the election process, please feel free to reach out to our Electoral Officer, Ron Laufer, who is available to assist with any inquiries or issues.

Electoral Officer:
Ron Laufer
Email: ronlauferelections@gmail.com
Phone: (604) 715-4777

Congratulations to our newly elected Kúkwpi7 ell Tk̓wem7íple7s re Qelmúcw!

With the passing of Mazina Giizhik (Honourable Murray Sinclair) we grieve the loss of a formidable Anishinaabe warrior who forged ahead with bravery, intelligence, and kindness.

His contributions to our society are almost immeasurable, from being Manitoba’s first Indigenous judge, to his visionary leadership of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission on Residential Schools, to his service as Senator to name some of the remarkable roles he held as a changemaker.

Our deepest condolences to his family, community, many colleagues and all he touched through his life.

We will honour his legacy by continuing to bring truth to light in our quest to honour the missing children of the Kamloops Indian Residential School.

Yours truly,
Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc
Kúkpi7 Rosanne Casimir (Chief)

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