The progress in Government to Government and Industry leadershipto-leadership relationships reflects the exciting work being done, specifically within the Reconciliation Department. These efforts can lay the groundwork for a future where Yaq̓it ʔa · knuqⱡi’ it people can independently manage and protect their lands and resources.
“ Our lands provide us with an ecosystem where our waters, plants and animals work together in a symbiotic relationship to sustain our people and maintain our ways of life since time immemorial,” says Nasuʔkin Gravelle.“ Our culture is interwoven with our land and water. They thrive together, or die together,” she says.“ The transformative action of reconciling our land is a pathway to healing, while honouring our culture, our creator and our ancestors. We believe this is a model for future landreconciliation projects: ʔakanuxunik̓ land
stewardship directed by ʔakanuxunik̓ people.”
“ Council and I continue to diligently pursue our goal of building mutually beneficial relationships with industry and government. We will always stand together as a First Nation and speak up to preserve our land, but we’ ve discovered that working from the inside is a better way to achieve success. While trust can’ t be built without the investment of time, we’ re getting there. Our desire is to ensure that the protection of our land be top-of-mind to everyone at the table when decisions are being made. It’ s a new way forward and we are proud to be breaking the trail. We hope all First Nations will follow. Together, we are stronger.”
For more information, visit Ktunaxa. org or tobaccoplains. org
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