Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc

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)

DOWNLOAD LETTER ►

Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc has developed two surveys about the updating of the Heritage Conservation Bylaw. There are links to the two surveys below. One survey, the “Quick Survey”, is for members who are interested in participating but don’t have a lot of time. The other survey, the “Detailed Survey”, is for members who have lots of information that they would like to share.

At the end of the surveys is information about an optional prize draw. For each survey, first prize is a Yeti Cooler and second prize is a Yeti Cup.

• Quick Survey ►
• Detailed Survey ►

READ MORE [PDF] ►

REPORT BY TK̓WENEM7ÍPLE7 NIKKI FRASER

I first want to acknowledge the significance of this infrastructure that literary bridge the connection to both communities. This bridge had a lot of historical significance to our people. There was a time when our people needed written permission to leave the reserve, and the Red Bridge was the connection our ancestors used to cross with written permission from an Indian Agent. The Red Bridge was a pathway of connection to Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc (TteS) Mount Paul Industrial Park and to the City Of Kamloops (COK) Downtown. Community was hurt and shocked by the news, there were a lot of heavy feelings, our Knowledge keepers, elders, and TteS Language & Cultural Department held ceremony for the Red Bridge to help those hurt and sadden by the loss.

Early morning of Thursday Sept 19, 2024, Kamloops and Tk̓emlúps Rural Detachment assisted Kamloops Fire and Rescue at the Red Bridge; the bridge was completely engulfed by flames. That morning, Kúkpi7 Rosanne Casimir released a joint statement with the City of Kamloops. Later that morning TteS Natural Resource Department (NRD) Manager, Aaron Gillespie supported Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure (MOTI) with the TteS NRD boat to take a MOTI team out on to the river to assess, they were the first out on the river to asses the site.

TteS Archaeology Department Manger Leslie LeBourdais team was on site during all ground disturbing activities since Thursday September 19. There has been some ground disturbance, one artifact was recovered from the surface of the beach before rig matting was laid down. They will be continuing to monitor and provide support during ongoing decommissioning activities.

TteS NRD, Arch, Emergency Management, P&E and I participated in the Ministry of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness (EMRC) Calls – from September 19-27, 2024

MOTI put up Debris Booms and Barriers to ensure debris was contained. There has been water monitoring, our NRD Manager is apart of this discussion, and ensuring the salmon have a path to get through to their spawning grounds, there are no significant concerns at this time.

Kamloops Fire and Rescue had full command of the site until the fire was fully suppressed, this took four days. MOTI is now leading, currently in Environmental Response phase.

Environmental response phase:

• MOTI have confirmed that following inspection the remaining sections of the Red Bridge will need to be removed due to structural and safety concerns and to support clean up of the debris from the Thompson River.
• This work is underway in close collaboration with Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc and City of Kamloops (CoK).
• Due to the complex nature of the removal, utilizing cranes, barges and heavy equipment, it is critical we minimize environmental impacts to the Thompson River, as such, this work is expected to continue throughout the winter. TteS Arch will be onsite during this phase.

MOTI is currently monitoring traffic volumes. The monitors on TteS side included HIGHWAY 5 AND MT PAUL WAY INTERSECTION & HIGHWAY 5 AND SHUSWAP ROAD (RD.) INTERSECTION

Another joint statement from TteS and COK is being worked on, please review the first joint statement here: https://www.kamloops.ca/our-community/news-events/news-releases/kamloops-tkemlups-mourn-loss-historic-red-bridge

TteS will be advancing conversations with CN, to address the safety concerns of pedestrians using the CN bridge and will be advancing conversations with BC transit to expedite the expansion of Mount Paul Bus route to accommodate the loss of the red bridge for pedestrian traffic.

In closing, the fire that destroyed the Red Bridge is being investigated as arson. The investigation is ongoing with the support of the General Investigations Support Team, Forensic Identification Unit, fire investigators, KFR, and frontline officers from both the Kamloops city and Tk̓emlúps Rural detachments. Anyone who witnessed, has video, or information related is asked to please contact the Kamloops RCMP Detachment at 250-828-3000 or Tk̓emlúps Rural RCMP Detachment at 250-314-1800 and reference file 2024-31206.

Tk̓emlúps Rural RCMP Media Release ►

COUNCILLOR NIKKI FRASER

Primary Portfolio:
Natural Resources/Rights & Title

Secondary Portfolio:
Housing

Alternate Portfolio:
Lands, Leasing & Taxation

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.

Notice is hereby given to the electors of the Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc that an election will be held for the purpose of electing one (1) Chief and seven (7) Councillors.

Regular Voting: November 9, 2024 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM

Advanced Voting: November 2, 2024 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM

LOCATION: Moccasin Square Garden (357-345 Chief Alex Thomas Way)

A copy of the List of Candidates is posted in the Band Administration Building and online at tkemlups.ca/elections where the Custom Election Regulations and further details may be found. Ballots will be counted and results declared immediately following the close of polls on November 9, 2024.

Electronic Voting: Any eligible voter may vote electronically for this ratification vote. Prior registration must take place at www.evoter.ca. Online voting will begin on November 3rd at 8:00 AM (PST) and close on November 8th at 8:00 PM (PST). See Electronic Voting Instructions for details.

Mail-in Ballot packages will be sent to all eligible electors ordinarily residing off reserve, to their last known address of record with the Nation. It is your responsibility to ensure your address is up to date. You may contact the Electoral Officer to update your address. Any Resident Elector may request a Mail-in Ballot package from the Electoral Officer.

Any elector that received a mail-in ballot package may vote in person at the Advance Poll or on Election Day if they have not submitted an electronic vote and (i) return the Mail-in Ballot to the Electoral Officer at the polling station, or (ii) swear a written declaration before the Electoral Officer, a justice of the peace, notary public or duly appointed commissioner for taking oaths that the Mail-in Ballot is lost or destroyed.

Please contact the electoral officer anytime for assistance with anything about the election process:

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

DOWNLOAD NOTICE ►

In the lead up to the 11th annual Orange Shirt Day and the 4th annual National Day for Truth and Reconciliation Kukpi7 Rosanne Casimir interviewed Keely Chow, a Tahltan-Tlingit Artist about turning an orange shirt day fundraising idea into reality, and then donating the proceeds to

Kamloops Indian Residential School commemorative activities. Keely worked on the design for the orange shirt with her grandfather Dempsey Bob, a Tahltan-Tlingit artist and master carver of world renown. Although Keely and her grandfather have wrapped up the fundraiser — their decisions serves as a good reminder as to what to look for when you purchase an orange shirt. Keely’s frank discussion as to why she loves working with her Grandfather Dempsey Bob may cause you to feel like there is someone chopping onions next to you in the best possible way!

TK̓EMLÚPS TE SECWÉPEMC / CITY OF KAMLOOPS (September 26, 2024) — The City of Kamloops and Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc are pleased to announce a first-ever joint initiative to commemorate the National Day of Truth and Reconciliation with an event on Friday, September 27, 2024, from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm at the Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc Arbour. The event will include engaging activities, cultural teachings, tours of the Kamloops Residential School, and a one-mile Orange Shirt Day Walk beginning at 3:00 pm.

“The City is grateful for the opportunity to partner with Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc to mark this time of observance, which was established to honour the children who never returned home and Survivors of residential schools,” said Deputy Mayor Stephen Karpuk. “Only through ongoing collaboration can we continue the work of reconciliation that our two communities have fostered so diligently in recent years. I encourage all residents of Kamloops to attend, listen, learn, and respect the truths shared throughout the event.”

“The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day is an important opportunity to show allyship, honour survivors, and continue the journey of healing and education,” said Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc Kúkpi7 Rosanne Casimir. As we partner with the City of Kamloops on this significant day for the first time, we express gratitude and together we are proud to serve our communities in unity, ensuring that we lead by example through our shared commitment to the implementation of Truth and Reconciliation.”

The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation commemorative event will be free and open to the public. Attendees are encouraged to wear an orange shirt and comfortable shoes for the walk. To register in advance for a Kamloops Residential School tour, please email events@ttes.ca.

This event is sponsored in part by Heritage Canada.

The National Day of Truth and Reconciliation became a federal statutory holiday in 2021 and is marked on September 30 each year, the historical day of observance for Orange Shirt Day. Orange Shirt Day is an Indigenous-led, grassroots observance to raise awareness of the inter-generational impacts of residential schools on individuals, families, and communities. The orange shirt symbolizes the stripping away of culture, freedom, and self-esteem experienced by Indigenous children over generations.

Media Contact:

Kúkpi7 Rosanne Casimir (Chief)
Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc
Email: kukpi7.rosanne@ttes.ca
Phone: (250) 819-2255

Sarah Candido, Indigenous and External Relations Manager
City of Kamloops
Email: scandido@kamloops.ca
Phone: (250) 828-3312

The nominations are in!  Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc held a Nomination Meeting September 21, 2024 for the nomination of candidates for the position of Chief and Council. Download the Preliminary Candidate Lists below.

Preliminary nominations have been made for the positions of Chief (1) and Councillor (7). The final list of nominees will be updated on Sunday, September 29, 2024. To stand as a candidate, each nominee must submit an Oath of Candidate, Criminal Record Check, Bankruptcy Check, and Band Account Clearance Check to the Electoral Officer by September 28, 2024.

The election to elect one (1) Chief and seven (7) Councillors for the Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc will be held November 9, 2024.

Preliminary Candidates for Chief ►

Preliminary Candidates for Councillor ►

The Toronta International Film Festival (TIFF) highlights Canadian perspectives to the world. TIFF is also a platform for underrepresented voices and truth telling, a significant outlet for Indigenous voices and realities.

Kúkpi7 Rosanne Casimir and Le Estcwicwéy̓ Manager Jeanette Jules were delighted to accept Tanya Talaga’s invitation to the TIFF screening of her documentary series, “The Knowing” which also the same title for her newly published book. Tanya made it clear that her journey began with covering the breaking news about Le Estcwicwéy̓ (the Missing Children of Kamloops Indian Residential School). Tanya brings to light significant parts of Canadian history, her lived experience from covering what took place at Tk̓emlúps, while the primary focus is about all that was involved in locating her great great grandmother.

Tanya Talaga has offered to host a screening of “The Knowing” in community and we are finalizing the details. We look forward to sharing more about it soon!