Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc

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.

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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:

• Call (toll-free) 1-866-786-0081
• Drop in Monday-Friday 8:30am – 4:30pm

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.

TAKING CARE: We recognize our efforts to show solidarity with Indigenous peoples and honour Survivors and families may become a painful reminder to those who have suffered hardships through generations of government policies that have been harmful to Indigenous peoples. A National Residential School Crisis Line is available to provide support to former residential school students where you can access emotional crisis referral services._

Please call the Crisis Line at 1-866-925-4419 if you or someone you know is triggered while reading this. We encourage all those who need some support to reach out and know that support is always there for you through the Hope for Wellness Help Line at 1-855-242-3310 (toll-free) or the online chat at hopeforwellness.ca, open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

You can also find information on how to obtain other health supports from the Government of Canada website.

News Release
For Immediate Release

Survivors of the Former Kamloops Indian Residential School, Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc and the Government of Canada mark the national historic significance of the Kamloops Indian Residential School

Located on the north bank of the South Thompson River at the foot of Sqeq7é7em (Mounts Peter and Paul), the former Kamloops Indian Residential School opened in 1890 as the Kamloops Industrial School and closed in 1978.

February 12, 2025
Secwepemcúl̓ecw (Kamloops, BC)
Parks Canada

Today, Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc and the Honourable Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Minister responsible for Parks Canada, announced the designation of the Former Kamloops Indian Residential School as a national historic site under Parks Canada’s National Program of Historical Commemoration.

The Former Kamloops Indian Residential School is located on Kamloops Indian Reserve #1 of Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc. This building was nominated for designation by Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc, and a collaborative process was undertaken between Parks Canada and the First Nation to identify the historical importance of this former school. Run by the Roman Catholic congregations of the Oblates of Mary Immaculate and the Sisters of St. Ann, the Kamloops Indian Residential School was the largest institution in a system designed to carry out what the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada described as cultural genocide. Many, including Pope Francis and the Canadian House of Commons, have referred to it as genocide. The traumas experienced by Survivors have had profound, lifelong, and intergenerational consequences that continue today.

Among the students who attended the Kamloops Indian Residential School were children between the ages of four and 18 from over 108 communities and at least 38 Indigenous nations from across British Columbia and beyond, including the Secwépemc, Stó:lō, St’át’imc, Nłeʔkepmxc, and Syilx. Forcibly removed from their homes, these children experienced physical, emotional, spiritual and sexual abuse, forced labour, malnutrition, inadequate and overcrowded living conditions, poor healthcare, and high rates of infectious diseases and death.

Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc members chose to preserve several of its buildings to commemorate and teach about the impacts of residential schools on children and families and to serve as a place for teaching Secwépemc language and culture as an act of reclamation.

The school was part of a system of residential schools instituted by governments for Indigenous Peoples, working with Christian churches in the 19th and 20th centuries. As part of the government policy of forced assimilation, these institutions separated Indigenous children from their families and communities in order to eradicate their cultures, spiritualities, languages, and traditions. Born of colonial policies in Canadian history, the residential school system is a tragedy that has adversely affected generations of Indigenous peoples, with lasting repercussions on First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities, cultures, economies, traditional knowledge and ways of life, languages, family structures and ties to the land. The Government of Canada is committed to raising the voices of Indigenous peoples to ensure this history is never forgotten.

The Government of Canada, through the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada and Parks Canada, recognizes significant persons, places, and events that have shaped our country as one way of helping Canadians connect with their past. By sharing these stories, we hope to foster understanding and reflection on the diverse histories, cultures, legacies, and realities of Canada’s past and present.

Quotes

“The commemoration and designation of the former Kamloops Indian Residential School to a site of national historic significance reflects how arrangements made collaboratively will benefit all people, indigenous and non-indigenous. It will serve as a place that will contribute to greater understanding of Secwépemc history and traditional knowledge. The designation symbolizes hope and the vision of our ancestors for a prosperous future for our children, and those not yet born. We collectively know all too well the often-impoverished view of reciprocal obligations and how it has dominated our people. Today, at Tk̓emlúps we take great pride in this path we walk together to commemorate that real collective history. Proud and honored to be in my ancestor’s vision of Clexléxqen or Petit Louis (1828-1915), who advocated for schooling that would benefit the Secwépemc people, together we will educate and share for a prosperous future with pride, the designation is a confirmation of our shared commitment and the hope for change.”
Kúkpi7 Rosanne Casimir

“Today’s designation acknowledges the harms suffered by the Survivors of the Former Kamloops Indian Residential School who fought so long and so tirelessly to have their stories heard. Their strength and grace in retelling their stories ensures that we can learn from them and enables us to advance the journey of truth-telling, reconciliation, and healing. The designation of the Former Kamloops Indian Residential School as a site of national historic significance will serve as a testament and memorial to the children who were forced to live there and who died there. The legacy of their stories will resonate throughout future generations.”
The Honourable Steven Guilbeault
Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Minister responsible for Parks Canada

Quick Facts

• The former Kamloops residential school is one of the few remaining residential school sites in Canada with a large group of original buildings and landscapes. It bears witness in physical form to the experiences of generations of children who lived and died there, as well as to the broader history of the residential school system in all its phases.
• Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc renamed the former residential school site the Chief Louis Centre in honour of the visionary leader, also known as Clexléxqen or Petit Louis (1828-1915), who advocated for schooling that would benefit the Secwépemc people.
• The designation process under Parks Canada’s National Program of Historical Commemoration is largely driven by public nominations. To date, more than 2,260 designations have been made nationwide. To nominate a person, place or historic event in your community, please visit the Parks Canada website for more information: https://parks.canada.ca/culture/designation/proposer-nominate.
• Created in 1919, the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada advises the Minister of Environment and Climate Change regarding the national significance of persons, places, and events that have marked Canada’s history. Together with Parks Canada, the Board ensures that subjects of national historic significance are recognized under Parks Canada’s National Program of Historical Commemoration and that these important stories are shared with Canadians.
• Parks Canada is committed to working with Canadians in our efforts to tell broader, more inclusive stories in the places that it manages. In support of this goal, the Framework for History and Commemoration outlines a new, comprehensive, and engaging approach to sharing Canada’s history through diverse perspectives, including shedding light on tragic and difficult periods of Canada’s past.

Related Documents

Backgrounder: Former Kamloops Indian Residential School

Related Links

• Parks Canada website
• National Historic Designations
• Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada
• Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc

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Former Kamloops Indian Residential School, Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc, British Columbia, circa 1930
© Archives Deschâtelets-NDC / Fonds Deschâtelets

REPORT BY KÚKPI7 ROSANNE

TteS Chief & Council held a strategic planning session that took place over two days led by Four Directions, Dan George. We were grateful to be joined by senior staff and managers; their input and perspectives supported teamwork and collaboration. Strategic Planning also served Council an opportunity for orientation into TteS’s organizational goals. We want a sturdy and promising foundation for the term ahead.

The two-day planning session included key areas with governance, pain points, a Comprehensive Community Plan update, and, of course, shared key organizational goals that will shape our strategic plan.

It was productive and appreciated to have departmental management, executive staff, key administrative staff, and leadership sharing perspectives that shed light on the commonalities we share in our hopes and goals for TteS while breaking down silos. A reminder that we all contribute to the success of community priorities that is for the long-term benefit of community and the people we all serve.

Internally, organizational priorities included: language and culture revitalization, land use, stewardship, title and rights, infrastructure, economic self-sovereignty, education, health, and wellness. We have also identified and highlighted a commonality around communication and ways to improve customer service and communicating effectively with all membership.

We believe in our people and the TteS organization team that will continue working to provide and enhance services and opportunities that benefit our community as we move forward. We look forward to sharing our overarching strategic plan with all of you in the late spring.

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

January 29, 2025 marks Indigenous Blazers night. This event brought our people together to enjoy the hockey game with everyone to cheer, laugh, and connect. Garrett G. Gottfriedson designed the jerseys that the Blazers wore. He is an incredibly talented artist that created the design which reflects Secwépemc culture and ways. Sc.wén̓wen Economic Development Corporation sponsored the jerseys which is the beginning of an exciting relationship between the Blazers and Sc.wén̓wen. The Blazers played the game in the jerseys and wore them with pride.

Sun Ridge Contracting and TteS sponsored the game in collaboration to highlight Indigenous Night. It was a pleasure to drop the puck and start the game off in a good way. We were joined by Council, TteS Members, Elders, and staff to cheer on the Blazers, and enjoy a night together.

Thank you to the Blazers, Sc.wén̓wen, Sun Ridge Contracting, and our dedicated community for making this night a memorable experience that we were all able to enjoy together and cheer for our favourite hockey team!

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.

On Tuesday, January 21, 29 Kamloops residents were presented with the prestigious King Charles III Coronation Medals. These medals were created to commemorate the coronation of King Charles III and are awarded to individuals across the Commonwealth who have made significant contributions to their communities or beyond.

Among the honorees were two members of Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc: Diena Jules and Dr. Muriel Sasakamoose.

• Diena Jules: Since 1975, Diena has held leadership roles with the Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc band. She is an Elder, Traditional Knowledge Keeper, and currently serves as the Language and Culture Department Manager for Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc. She also works with the Sewépemc Museum and Heritage Park.
• Dr. Muriel Sasakamoose: Dr. Sasakamoose has been an educator and advocate for justice and equality for over 60 years. A member of Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc, she is one of the founding members of the BC Native Women’s Association and was the first Indigenous person appointed to the BC Parole Board.

Photos from archive files.