Earlier this afternoon, some dark smoke was seen coming from the Stswékstem Engineered Waste Management Facility. It was a small fire that was quickly extinguished. There is no cause for concern, and the community remains safe.
This is a good reminder for everyone: if you see a fire, please don’t hesitate to call 911 right away.
NOTICE TO IMPACTED PROPERTIES
Lafarge Road closure | April 14-16, 2025 (nightly)
The City of Kamloops has been advised that CPKC will be performing rail work that will result in the nightly closure of Lafarge Road from April 14-16, 2025. During the day, the corridor will reopen, which may result in periods of single lane alternating traffic.
The closure timeline is as follows:
During the work, the alternative (detour route) is along East Shuswap Road. Please note the current load restrictions in place on alternative routes as listed on the MoTT website. Please expect delays and increased commercial traffic along the detour route. Motorists should plan for additional drive time as alternative routes are quite long. Please obey all signage and traffic control personnel when travelling in the area.
Questions? Contact City of Kamloops Transportation Department at 250-828-3561 for more information.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 4, 2025
Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc extends heartfelt congratulations to Dr. Airini on her appointment as the fifth President and Vice-Chancellor of Thompson Rivers University (TRU). We are encouraged and inspired by this significant step forward, not only for the institution but for the broader landscape of Indigenous education and reconciliation across Canada.
Dr. Airini brings with her a wealth of experience in advancing equity in education and working in partnership with Indigenous communities. As an internationally respected scholar and former Dean of the Faculty of Education and Social Work at TRU, she has already demonstrated a strong commitment to Indigenous engagement and inclusive leadership. Her return to TRU as President signals a renewed opportunity to strengthen relationships between the university and the original peoples of this land.
As Secwépemc, we have carried values and laws that guide us in how we build relationships—with the land, with each other, and with institutions like TRU. At times, that relationship has not been easy. The appointment of Dr. Airini gives us hope and we see a real opportunity. Her leadership reflects a shift—one where Indigenous voices are not just acknowledged, but respected, included, and uplifted. We are hopeful that this new chapter will bring deeper collaboration, where our ways of knowing and being are recognized as foundational to the future of education.
We look forward to working with Dr. Airini and TRU in good faith, building a relationship that honours the principles of respect, responsibility, and reciprocity. Her leadership is an example of what reconciliation in action can look like—one where Indigenous voices are not only heard but are central to shaping the future of post-secondary education.
This is a powerful and inspiring moment. With Dr. Airini at the helm, we are confident that great things lie ahead—not only for TRU, but for Indigenous students, learners, and communities. Her presidency stands as a model for other Canadian institutions to follow: a university grounded in collaboration, accountability, and respect for Indigenous peoples.
We raise our hands to Dr. Airini and wish her all the best in this important role.
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Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc Media Contact:
Rosanne Casimir, Kúkpi7
250-819-2255
kukpi7.rosanne@ttes.ca
After careful consideration, Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc are thrilled to unveil that the Red Bridge, tragically destroyed by fire, will be replaced with a state-of-the-art ZIPLINE!
Why a zipline, you ask? Here are just a few of the many benefits:
✔️ Eco-Friendly: No emissions, no concrete, just pure gravity-powered travel!
✔️ Efficient Commute: Get across the river in seconds—no more traffic delays!
✔️ Unforgettable Views: Enjoy a breathtaking, high-speed tour of the river while commuting!
✔️ Cost-Effective: A fraction of the price of a new bridge!
✔️ Local Job Creation: We’ll need highly trained “Zipline Operators” and “Landing Zone Recovery Specialists.”
Construction begins soon—just hold tight! (Literally.)
Happy April Fools! 😆
FROM THE OFFICE OF THE CHIEF
On behalf of Tḱemlúps te Secwépemc (TteS) many of us are wearing pink to stand up for our commitment to choose kindness and remind everyone of our shared responsibility to treat one another with compassion, understanding, and respect.
We have all seen and experienced bullying in workplaces, on social media, and within communities. It truly has rippling effects that are hurtful and for those who are already marginalized. We need to be role models for future generations.
Denialism is a violent form of bullying that has risen since the announcement of unmarked graves, and I extend my heartfelt appreciation to allies that uphold the collective history and the impacts that Survivors have lived.
Denialists are those who willfully misrepresent well documented, historical facts to promote hate against Indigenous people and more specifically with the intention of targeting Survivors, families, and communities.
We all need to continue supporting change; we have seen real progress, so we must continue to call out all forms of bullying so that everyone feels united and respected. Building inclusive communities is the vision we should all want: a community supported by all of our neighbours, lifting each other up, and where everyone feels safe.
We recognize that bullying and division are sometimes fueled by those in power who seek to distract from the real issues impacting Survivors, communities, and the public.
Today on this Pink Shirt Day, let’s send a powerful message: bullying and denialism will not be tolerated. We stand for kindness, empathy, solidarity, and respect. From all of us at TteS, take action by wearing pink and giving kindness; it goes a long way and embraces real change.
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.
REPORT BY KÚKPI7 ROSANNE
Congratulations to Dr. Garry Gottfriedson and Professor Tory Handford, on the launch of their new book, Dangling in the Glimmer of Hope. We also extend a heartfelt kukwstsétsemc to the publishers, family, and faculty at Thompson Rivers University who played a role in bringing Dangling in the Glimmer of Hope to life. This book is more than a collection of words; it is a powerful testament to truth, resilience, and the ongoing work of decolonization and reconciliation.
At a time when these conversations are more important than ever, this work offers both insight and inspiration. It was an honour to celebrate this achievement at Thompson Rivers University alongside Tkwenem7íple7 Boyd Gottfriedson, Tkwenem7íple7 Daylin Malloy, and Tkwenem7íple7 Nikki Fraser, surrounded by those who believe in the strength of Indigenous voices and the necessity of these discussions.
This creation of this book took dedication and collaboration. Dangling in the Glimmer of Hope is a meaningful contribution to the path forward, a reminder that change happens when we come together with honesty, courage, and a shared vision for the future generations.
REPORT BY KÚKPI7 ROSANNE
Weyt-kp xwexwéytep, on behalf of TteS, I was honored to witness, participate in, and celebrate the incredible work of artist Ed Jensen, Tk̓emlúps Traditions, as he presented a one-of-a-kind ceremonial Mace to Thompson Rivers University (TRU). This handcrafted piece will hold deep significance in TRU’s Convocation Ceremonies, serving as a lasting legacy that educates and supports the importance of reconciliation.
TRU honors its relationship with Tk̓emlúps and shares in the pride of our Band member, Ed Jensen, a local and world-renowned artist. The university hosted a Mace Ceremony on February 13, 2025, to recognize Ed’s contributions. His beautiful design, crafted from juniper and jade, is supported by a grandfather rock. The juniper pole features hand-carved Secwépemc pictographs representing our people, while the jade embodies Sk’elep, the storyteller in our culture. Every element of this piece was created using traditional Secwépemc carving techniques.
We hold our hands up to Ed for upholding and sharing our culture in such a good way. It was an honor to provide a welcome, share words about Ed, and sing the welcome song alongside our people. His family was there to support and share in this proud moment, and he is apprenticing two of them to help carry forward the work of Tk̓emlúps Traditions, ensuring that this important knowledge continues for generations to come.
Re xyemstéms te tnk’we7 re xyemstéms xwexwéyt te swet – the honour of one is the honour of all.
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
The BC First Nations Justice Council has been working hard to establish 6 new Indigenous Justice Centers (IJC) that have now recently opened across the province. Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc is pleased to be the home of a brand-new Indigenous Justice Centre, where our communities can seek legal aid alongside wrap around services in an environment that feel culturally safe. We extend our appreciation to the BC First Nations Justice Council and The Province for addressing and working towards better systems of justice for Indigenous peoples. The relief, safety, and support this centre brings will ripple through our community with positive effects.
The new locations of Indigenous Justice Centres are Kamloops, Williams Lake, Cranbrook, Port Hardy, Burns Lake, and New Hazelton. On February 6, 2025, we gathered at the Kamloops IJC alongside members of the BC First Nations Justice Council, IJC staff, and the Honourable Nikki Sharma, Attorney General, to tour the space and celebrate this accomplishment. We honoured our Secwépemc protocols as the Language & Culture department sang the welcome song and the honour song. We also began and ended with a beautiful prayer from our Elder, Freda Jules.
This new IJC is a product of our communities working together to create and ensure that the highest level of services are offered to our people. We acknowledge the gaps in our justice system, and we have trust that this IJC will address and support those seeking legal supports in an integral and dynamic way.
Contact an IJC:
Kamloops IJC: 440 Victoria St, Kamloops, BC
Williams Lake IJC: 59 1st Ave S, Williams Lake, BC
Cranbrook IJC: 44 -12th Avenue South, Cranbrook, BC
Port Hardy IJC: 6990 Market St, Port Hardy, BC
Hazelton IJC: 4125 River Rd, Hazelton, BC
Burns Lake IJC: 310 Highway 16, Burns Lake, BC
Fort St John IJC: To be announced April 2025
Kelowna IJC: 275 Lawrence Ave., Kelowna, BC
Nanaimo IJC: 17 Church St., Nanaimo, BC
Surrey IJC: 13041 108 Ave., Surrey, BC
Vancouver IJC: 510 Beatty St., Vancouver, BC
Victoria IJC: 794 Yates St., Victoria, BC
Merritt IJC: 1999 Voght Street PO Box 2310 Merritt, BC
Prince George IJC: 511 George St Prince George, BC
Prince Rupert IJC: #200 – 515 3rd Avenue West, Prince Rupert, BC
Chilliwack IJC: 46140 Yale Rd #201, Chilliwack, BC
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 February 1, 2025, Secwépemc Child and Family Services Agency (SCFSA) offered the 6th annual Winter Gathering Powwow. This was a special event for families and communities to connect, celebrate, and share in our traditions. It was great to see everyone enjoying the dancing, drumming, and time spent together. The turnout was excellent, and the energy was positive throughout the day. Events like this remind us of the importance of gathering; when we do so, we get to connect through our culture and traditions, and it truly is a beautiful thing. Thank you to SCFSA for their hard work and dedication for serving and supporting our families. We appreciate the work you are doing to ensure our relationships in the community are well tended to and full of love.
Thank you to everyone who participated, supported, and helped make this powwow a success. Your presence and good energy made it a meaningful gathering. We look forward to seeing you all again next year!
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.