Ha Shilth Sa Newspaper January 11, 2024

INTERESTING NEWS Canada’s Oldest First Nations Newspaper - Serving Nuu-chah-nulth-aht since 1974 Canadian Publications Mail Product Vol. 51 - No. 01—January 11, 2024 haas^i>sa Sales Agreement No. 40047776

50 years later, reporter recalls first days of Ha-Shilth-Sa Jan Broadland was part of the team behind Canada’s oldest First Nation’s newspaper when it launched in 1974

By Denise Titian Ha-Shilth-Sa Reporter Port Alberni, BC – A young college graduate answers an ad in the Alberni Valley Times. The West Coast District Council, an early incarnation of the Nuuchah-nulth Tribal Council, was launching a newspaper and needed staff.

“As I recall, the ad stated that they were looking for a reporter to start a monthly newspaper to serve the people of the 13 west coast tribes,” said Jan Broadland, one of Ha-Shilth-Sa’s first reporters.

It was late 1973 when Jan and her husband, Ken, began looking for work after the couple moved to Port Alberni from Duncan.

“I had a BA in English from U.Vic. and 10 months’ experience working as a reporter-photographer for the Cowichan Leader in Duncan,” she said.

Broadland recalls being excited to apply for the job. It turned out her stint at the Cowichan Leader proved to be the only experience offered by any applicants.

“It was enough to get me hired---a very lucky thing for me as it turned out to be the most interesting and rewarding job I would ever be fortunate enough to have,” she told Ha-Shilth-Sa in an email.

The young reporter was told that the paper’s purpose was to keep people informed about what was happening politically at the district, provincial and federal levels.

“And to also serve as the voice of the people, so that community members could share information about what was happening on the reserve level in the way of social events, sports, economic development, housing, and so on,” said Broadland.

Hugh Braker, a lawyer and past elected chief of Tseshaht, worked for Ha-ShilthSa as a summer student in the early days, building the mailing list in the early 1970s.

“I remember George (Watts) saying at a tribal council meeting that it would be important to keep all ‘west coast people’ up to date on what was happening and on what the tribal council was doing to help people,” said Braker. “I believe he saw the Ha-Shilth-Sa as an important communications tool to keep people informed.”

Back in the days before Ha-Shilth-Sa, the coastal Nuu-chah-nulth communities were even more remote than they are today.

“Some First Nations on the coast still did not have telephones or BC Hydro on their reserves. Many of the roads and highways and the internet, that we take for granted now, did not exist back then,”

Ha-Shilth-Sa colourized archive photo

“Jim-Bob” Mack demonstrates his dancing skills at the Ha-ho-payak Play School while his classmates and teacher Anne Robinson lay down the beat. Part of the Ha-Shilth-Sa’s archive of photographs, this was origally printed Nov. 29 , 1976. served as an office was poorly ventilated, “Given the low income of First Nations but Bob ran a darkroom out of it. people, this was an important decision,” In 1975 the WCDC moved all of its said Braker.

Jill Lewis joined Jan Broadland to begin administrative offices, including the Ha-Shilth-Sa, into Peake Hall, which production of the first newspaper, which was also demolished decades later and still didn’t have a name. replaced with a basketball court.

“It was a newspaper for all Nuu-chah“It had a much friendlier feel to it than nulth people,” said Charlie Thompson, the main buildings had,” Broadland said. who was the Ditidaht Band manager at Besides the reporter’s regular tasks of the time. interviewing people, writing stories and Broadland recalls that the first newspataking photos, the fledgling Ha-Shilth-Sa per office was in the former Alberni Inteam had to learn old-school layout with dian Residential School building, which was later demolished and replaced by the literal cutting and pasting of stories in the days before computers and the internet. present-day NTC building.

After typing out stories on manual “I wrote in my memoirs that, ‘The typewriters, the team cut their stories into buildings were all massive, heavylooking, brick-and-mortar structures with strips to layout on a large storyboard.

Jan Broadland “We rolled melted wax on the back of no landscaping to soften their gloomy, said Braker. the story strips and then placed them on haunted look’,” she said. “At that time Braker believes that his late uncle the big sheets so they would fit where we I had no knowledge about residential George didn’t appreciate how important wanted them, with the wax holding them schools or the sorrow they brought to the Ha-Shilth-Sa was in unifying the in place while still allowing them to be First Nations people, but I could someNuu-chah-nulth people and creating a adjusted as necessary,” said Broadland. how feel a negativity of spirit within the sense of nationhood.

“We would leave blank areas where we wall of that building.”

“We did not know that someone was wanted photos and label these areas with Braker recalls a time when the Hahaving a potlatch or that someone had the photo numbers we wanted to use, Shilth-Sa and WCDC offices were at passed away or been born. The Hathen provide the Times with the negatives the Tseshaht Cultural Centre. By that Shilth-Sa changed all that,” he said. of the photos so they could print them time Bob Soderlund, a lifelong friend of Braker said for his uncle George Watts, George Watts, was working for the paper. and add them to the layout.” it was important to ensure that Nuu-chah- He was hired because of his keen interest nulth-aht had free access to the paper.

Continues on Page 2. in photography. The basement room that

Inside this issue...

Treatment centre expands services.................................Page 3 Cameron wildfire changes soil conditions......................Page 5 50 years of intersting news......................................Pages 8&9 Alberni organizations prepares for holiday needs........Page 11 Project examines rec fishery.........................................Page 15

If undeliverable, please return to: Ha-Shilth-Sa P.O. Box 1383, Port Alberni, B.C. V9Y 7M2

Page 2— Ha-Shilth-Sa—January 11, 2024

A new voice for Vancouver Island’s west coast people Continued from Page 1.

In fact Soderlund, who served as HaShilth-Sa editor for more than 20 years, continued the old style of layout up until his retirement in 1998. He would stay at the office late at night to do layout uninterrupted. Known for his beautiful photography, Soderlund also had a darkroom in the corner of his office, where he processed his own rolls of 35mm film.

Soderlund passed away unexpectedly, in the Philippines in September 2018.

“Suds (as Bob was known) would later say that doctors said his asthma was most likely the result of picture developing in closed, unventilated spaces,” Braker said.

Broadland credits George Watts as the driving force behind launching a Nuuchah-nulth newspaper from scratch.

“He had laid out the groundwork for us with the A.V. Times and they had agreed to do the type-setting and printing for us as well as to teach us how to do the layout,” Broadland recalled.

In its early years the paper was federally funded through a L.I.P. grant (Local Initiatives Program).

“For my dad, the biggest thing I remember about the paper for him was how proud he was that we had it,” said Tseshaht Chief Councillor Ken Watts of his late father, George. “He would talk about how that’s how we got info out to our people in communities and update them. While land claims were always a top priority I also know he thought it was important to celebrate events, milestones and people.”

Broadland describes herself and Jill as young white women back in 1973. She said when they were hired, it was made clear to them that one of their main roles

would be to train First Nations people to eventually take over their jobs. She said they believed it was the right thing to do.

Nuu-chah-nulth people were hired to work at the paper, including Charlotte Rampanen, the former NTC education manager, the late Eileen Haggard, Pete A. Charlie, Jessie Lucas (Robinson) and the late Lillian Howard, a former NTC co-chair.

In the beginning, Broadland recalls their main interest was to publicize the paper as a new voice for the West Coast people. “(As) a place to share with each other what was happening in their communities, and a way to become informed about events that were affecting their lives,” she remembered.

The first issues of Ha-Shilth-Sa Newspaper introduced District Council staff members, invited applications for new job openings and encouraged people to attend District Council meetings so they could see first-hand what was happening.

“In subsequent issues, we responded to suggestions from band members about stories that would interest them, kept people informed about the work that the district staff was doing, and published sports and social news submitted to us by community members,” said Broadland.

During Broadland’s three years at HaShilth-Sa, the biggest issues were land claims, leading to three special editions that focused on this topic. Other important issues included language revitalization and education along with the opening of Ha-Ho-Payuk (now Haahuupayak) school in October 1976.

“These big issues are still in the headlines today, 50 years later, which shows that when dealing with governments, progress can be very slow and requires

Tseshaht leader George Watts (left) was a strong advocate for the Ha-Shilth-Sa in its early years. Watts was a close friend to Bob Soderlund (right) a longtime editor of the newspaper. a LOT of patience and determination!” the white Europeans who took over their Broadland noted. land and their lives and continue to try to Other big events Broadland recalls dominate over native culture today,” she include the time Nuu-chah-nulth chiefs shared. rejected all federal funding from May “When I left, in April of 1977, it was to September 1975. Later that year, the because Ken and I were expecting our WCDC hosted the International Conferfirst child and I wanted to be an at-home ence of Indigenous People at Maht Mahs. mom,” said Broadland.

“There are many stories I could tell The couple welcomed their son Dean about my time spent working for the West in May 1977 and moved back to the CoCoast people and most of my memories wichan Valley shortly afterwards. are nothing but positive,” said Broadland.

Soderlund remained dedicated to the She remembers the First Nations people paper for 24 years, sometimes volunteershe got to know were warm and genering his services when funding ran dry. ous, full of fun and laughter, loyal and According to Braker, Bob was always caring, and some of the best orators she’s ready to hit the road with Nuu-chah-nulth ever heard. leaders.

“Listening to passionate, unrehearsed “Often George (Watts) would come into speeches by Simon Lucas, George Watts the office, look at Suds and say, ‘We gotta and many others, spoken from the heart go to (wherever) today’. Suds would and without any notes, was inspirational, laugh and just say, ‘ok’. Suds would later especially when they dealt with land say that was why he kept clean underclaims and the treatment of the natives by wear in his vehicle,” Braker remembers.

January 11, 2024—Ha-Shilth-Sa—Page 3

Treatment centre expands services, as crisis rages on Kackaamin has more than doubled the capacity of its daycare, enabling facility to treat more families this year

By Eric Plummer Ha-Shilth-Sa Editor Port Alberni, BC - The cumulative “snowball” effect from multiple generations of unresolved trauma is a factor behind the opioid crisis’s toll on First Nations, says the head of a family treatment centre that delves into the roots of addictions issues.

“It’s like a snowball rolling downhill, if you understand the whole disconnect that happened with residential school, the lack of attachment that kept occurring each generation after each generation,” said Lisa Robinson, executive director of the Kackaamin Family Development Centre.

“It’s everything, attachment, your love source. How are you going to develop as a human being and learn how to cope?

Life is hard even if you had two parents, all the love in the world, you’ll still struggle…But what if that wasn’t there at all?”

Working under the philosophy that young ones are at the centre of the family circle, Kackaamin is celebrating the expansion of its daycare facility, which supervises children while families are undergoing treatment, staying at the facility. Running Indigenous-focused programs that usually last multiple weeks for addictions, trauma and grief issues, the Kackaamin facility outside of Port Alberni was previously able to just host up to eight pre-school children. Now with a provincially funded expansion worth over $3 million up to a dozen youngsters can stay at the daycare, enabling Kackaamin to expand its services at a critical time for many struggling families.

“We are going through a really dark period in our history with the losses,” said Robinson at an event announcing the daycare expansion on Dec. 18. “You need to get people in decent space if they want to heal. There’s no way in hell you can get them to do anything vulnerable if they’re living on the street.”

So far this winter the hazards appear to be intensifying for those who are exposed to street drugs. On Dec.13 the BC Coroners Service issued a “public safety warning to anyone using substances purchased from the illicit market,” after the death toll has risen to an average of seven a day across the province in recent weeks. This year is expected to see the most fatalities from the crisis, with recent coroner data showing over 200 deaths in November.

Originally introduced as a medicalgrade painkiller, fentanyl has found its place on the illicit market. Since the opioid crisis was declared a public health

Eric Plummer photo

Staff and supporters at the Kackaamin Family Development Centre cut a ribbon marking its newly expanded daycare on Dec. 18. The daycare is named after Erica Seitcher, who has run the service in recent years. emergency in 2016 fentanyl has dominat- nity and our family. It was sort of swept pandemic, when the need for supportive ed fatal cases, and has so far been found under the rug.” treatment to individuals became increasin 83 per cent of deaths by illicit drug use Alcoholism persisted into Watts’ adultingly apparent. in 2023. Now even cases of counterfeit hood, but he eventually had to confront “We’re targeting people who might have hydromorphone, which is being used as the issue. nowhere else to go,” said Robinson of the a prescribed alternative to illicit drugs, “Several years ago I decided that was recovery program for individuals. “We’re have been reported from Interior Health. not the way to be and chose to leave it making sure we’re helping with the crisis In British Columbia, Indigenous people behind,” he said. “But along the way I at hand.” have been affected by illicit drug fatalilearned of all the things I had to deal with But detox is required before anyone can ties at a rate that is five times that of the in my life, all the dysfunction that went access this program, a medical comporest of the population, according to data on. It’s been a struggle but it’s worthnent to addictions treatment that Robinreported by the First Nations Health Auwhile.” son believes is severely lacking. thority last year.

At Kackaamin, a critical part of the The absence of a detox centre in the Robinson notes that a deep-seated sense healing process is enabling families to Alberni Valley or on Vancouver Island’s of disconnection is behind addiction, live in a comfortable, drug and alcoholwest coast has been a point of frustration regardless of race. free space over their treatment. A safe en- for many in recent years. In April 2022 “There’s not just native people dying, vironment is needed to stop the patterns the Nuu-chah-nulth Tribal Council called there’s all colours dying- but it’s probably of trauma that can start in childhood. on governments for an around-the-clock the same,” she said. “What happened to “Mostly when families come here, we facility in Nuu-chah-nulth territory that them? Were they cared for when they say, ‘Get that hurt out of the way so you immediately gets people off street drugs were little? Did they feel loved?” can remember who you are’,” Robinson through detox treatment, but this has yet Tseshaht member Richard Watts is on explained. “It’s quite amazing what you to be prioritized by health authorities or Kackaamin’s board of directors. He says can see happen when people clear that the province. the on-site daycare is symbolic of the stuff out. It’s just a natural place people “That’s a huge need…it’s lacking, that centre’s approach to treating the whole get to where you’re comfortable, you can medical piece,” said Robinson, reflecting family. be yourself.” that addictions can be a temporary sur“I grew up in a community, a family and In September the province announced vival tactic for people who struggle with a home where my dad was out working another expansion for Kackaamin’s old trauma. “Everyday stresses become full time, my mom was a mother raising services, with 10 publicly funded beds big triggers for people, they can’t cope. the kids,” said Watts during the Dec 18 for addictions recovery. With Nuu-chahIt’s a temporary fix. When you’re using event. “At the same time we had this seri- nulth-aht given the priority, the centre substances it will numb that pain for that ous problem with alcohol in our commuhad already started offering this support moment, because maybe that’s all that’s to individuals during the COVID-19 keeping them alive.”

TSESHAHT MARKET GATEWAY TO THE PACIFIC RIM

Hours of operation - 7:00 am - 10:00 pm Phone: 724-3944 E-mail: claudine@tseshahtmarket.ca Find us on Facebook

Page 4— Ha-Shilth-Sa—January 11, 2024 Ha-Shilth-Sa newspaper is published by the Nuu-chah-nulth Tribal Council for distribution to the members of the NTC-member First Nations, as well as other interested groups and individuals.

Information and original work contained in this newspaper is protected by copyright and may not be reproduced without written permission from: Nuu-chah-nulth Tribal Council P.O. Box 1383, Port Alberni, B.C. V9Y 7M2.

Telephone: (250) 724-5757 Fax: (250) 723-0463 Web page: www.hashilthsa.com facebook: Hashilthsa Ntc

LETTERS and KLECOS Ha-Shilth-Sa will include letters received from its readers. Letters MUST be signed by the writer and have the writer’s full name, address and phone number on them.

Names can be withheld by request. Anonymous submissions will not be accepted.

We reserve the right to edit submitted material for clarity, brevity, grammar and good taste. We will definitely not publish letters dealing with tribal or personal disputes or issues that are critical of Nuu-chah-nulth individuals or groups.

All opinions expressed in letters to the editor are purely those of the writer and will not necessarily coincide with the views or policies of the Nuu-chah-nulth Tribal Council or its member First Nations. Ha-Shilth-Sa includes paid advertising, but this does not imply Ha-Shilth-Sa or Nuu-chah-nulth Tribal Council recommends or endorses the content of the ads.

2024 Subscription rates: $40 per year in Canada and $45 per year in the U.S.A. and $50 per year in foreign countries. Payable to the Nuu-chah-nulth Tribal Council.

Manager/Editor/Reporter Eric Plummer (Ext. 243) (250) 724-5757 Fax: (250) 723-0463 eric.plummer@nuuchahnulth.org Reporter Denise Titian (Ext. 240) (250) 724-5757 Fax: (250) 723-0463 denise.titian@nuuchahnulth.org Reporter Alexandra Mehl (Ext. 286) (250) 724-5757 Fax: (250) 723-0463 alexandra.mehl@nuuchahnulth.org

Audio / Video Technician Mike Watts (Ext. 238) (250) 724-5757 Fax: (250) 723-0463 mike.watts@nuuchahnulth.org Editorial Assistant Holly Stocking (Ext. 302) (250) 724-5757 Fax: (250) 723-0463 holly.stocking@nuuchahnulth.org

DEADLINE: Please note that the deadline for submissions for our next issue is Jan 19, 2024 After that date, material submitted and judged appropriate cannot be guaranteed placement but, if material is still relevant, will be included in the following issue.

In an ideal world, submissions would be typed rather than hand-written.

Articles can be sent by e-mail to holly.stocking@nuuchahnulth.org (Windows PC).

Submitted pictures must include a brief description of subject(s) and a return address.

Pictures with no return address will remain on file. Allow two - four weeks for return.

Photocopied or faxed photographs cannot be accepted.

Submitted photo

Paula Amos of the Hesquiaht First Nation is the chief marketing and development officer for Indigenous Tourism B.C.

Business leaders claim places on BC 500 Business in Vancouver magazine’s list of the top 500 influencers includes Nuuchah-nulth leaders in clean energy advocacy, tourism and economic self-sufficiency

By Alexandra Mehl Local Journalism Initiative Reporter Vancouver, BC - Business in Vancouver (BIV) published its 2023 list of the top 500 most influential business leaders in the province, with four Nuu-chah-nulth leaders claiming their place.

Paula Amos, chief marketing and development officer for Indigenous Tourism B.C., Carol Anne Hilton, CEO of Indigenomics Institute, Judith Sayers, a board director for Clean Energy BC, and Kwatuuma Cole Sayers, executive director of Clean Energy BC, were highlighted as “visionaries, innovators, connectors, and trailblazers”.

“They also embody the values of modern leadership: Engagement, trust, corporate citizenship and inclusion among them,” reads the third edition of BIV500.

For Amos, she’s been working with Indigenous Tourism B.C. for 20 years now helping grow the company to roughly 200 market ready businesses.

“I’ve been there for a long time to help create the foundation of the organization and the industry… making all these inroads into the industry with key partners

so that Indigenous tourism is seen as a key area for tourism,” said Amos.

Amos adds that with the work of Indigenous Tourism B.C., they aim to have visitors not only think of B.C. for its natural beauty, but also to include an authentic Aboriginal experience.

“That’s part of why I love the industry is because we do get this opportunity on the world stage to educate the world about who Indigenous people are,” she said.

Kwatuuma Cole Sayers of Hupačasath was appointed interim executive director for Clean Energy BC in 2022. He shared with Ha-Shilth-Sa that his biggest achievement is serving communities with his role in the transition to clean energy.

“I think that our momentum is building so I just feel really excited that I can play one small part in that,” said Sayers, who advocates for environmentally responsible and cost effective energy technologies, in partnership with communities across the province.

“We need to move away from fossil fuels and move towards cleaner electricity, as one,” said Sayers. “It is a great way to drive down our emissions.”

Sayers shared that Hupačasath was one

Legal Information

COVERAGE: Although we would like to be able to cover all stories and events, we will only do so subject to: - Sufficient advance notice addressed specifically to Ha-Shilth-Sa. - Reporter availability at the time of the event.

- Editorial space available in the paper.

- Editorial deadlines being adhered to by contributors.

of the first to identify the economic development opportunities in clean energy at China Creek.

Within 20 years of operating, the organization now has biomass, solar, wind, storage and non-storage hydro projects, among others, across the province.

“We have an opportunity for First Nations to be part of that solution so that we can continue to have clean electricity, we can bring economic opportunities and benefits to our communities… so that we can take climate action so that we can meet our climate targets while also advancing reconciliation with First Nations,” said Sayers.

“Our work is generational,” he added.

“We can try our best to follow the people before us, and I think the generation that’s coming up is going to play a very important role as we get closer to 2050.”

“We’re at an exciting time… as Indigenous people, to create this change [and] be part of the change for the future,” said Amos. “This work has provided me such a great opportunity to make a difference and be the difference that’s happening.”

Ha-Shilth-Sa belongs to every Nuu-chah-nulth person including those who have passed on, and those who are not yet born. A community newspaper cannot exist without community involvement. If you have any great pictures you’ve taken, stories or poems you’ve written, or artwork you have done, please let us know so we can include it in your newspaper. E-mail holly.stocking@nuuchahnulth.org. This year is Ha-Shilth-Sa’s 50th year of serving the Nuu-chah-nulth First Nations.

We look forward to your continued input and support.

Kleco! Kleco!

The advertiser agrees that the publisher shall not be liable for damages arising out of errors in advertisements beyond the amount paid for space actually occupied by the portion of the advertisement in which the error is due to the negligence of the servants or otherwise, and there shall be no liability for non-insertion of any advertisement beyond the amount paid for such advertisements

January 11, 2024—Ha-Shilth-Sa—Page 5

Cameron wildfire changed soil conditions: Ministry As the province watches how heavy rain affects Cameron Bluffs, First Nations continue push for alternate route

By Alexandra Mehl Local Journalism Initiative Reporter Port Alberni, BC - On Dec. 25 Highway 4 saw its first highly anticipated unexpected closure when rocks and debris fell along Cameron Lake. Less than 24 hours later, the highway reopened allowing community members of Port Alberni and beyond to travel again.

“Even prior to the Cameron Bluffs fire, Highway 4 has always had [a history of] materials [coming] down periodically,” said Janelle Staite, regional deputy director for the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure (MOTI). “It is a very long and steep slope in the area.”

Features installed in the Cameron Bluffs Recovery Project include roadside barriers and rock catchment fencing, but when heavy rain occurs MOTI increases patrols in the area, she shared.

“The fire has actually sort of changed the soil conditions,” said Staite, noting that this warrants more frequent patrols.

“If we don’t need to close the highway, we won’t, but if we feel like there’s any concerns from a safety perspective, we absolutely will.”

She added that she does not anticipate an increase in closures through the winter season.

“We’ve gone through several large rain events and actually larger than the one that happened on December 25, and [it] didn’t result in highway closures,” she shared, adding that the rock and debris

fell outside of Cameron Bluff area, calling it rare.

On June 14, a letter was sent to Premier David Eby signed by Tseshaht, Tla-o-quiaht, Huu-ay-aht, Hesquiaht, and Ditidaht First Nations, addressing concerns with the highway and wildfire. The letter called for the provincial and federal governments to make “immediate investments in securing a permanent second access road into the City of Port Alberni”.

For Huu-ay-aht, roughly half of members are living in Port Alberni. But both members living on their traditional territory and in the city are affected, shared their elected chief councillor, John Jack.

“People who live in our territory weren’t as affected by the closure itself as they were affected by the detour,” he said.

“Because of the increased usage of the back roads and the industrial roads, our citizens found that there was a delay getting into the valley or a delay getting out into the Duncan area.”

“It’s in our interest to ensure that there is an alternative route or route plans, and actually create it for not just the Alberni Valley, but just for the entire regional area,” said Jack.

In early October, Huu-ay-aht celebrated the completion of Bamfield Main upgrades, which began in 2020, making the industrial road safer to travel between Bamfield and Port Alberni.

“Using that as a template, investing in an actual highway between the Alberni Valley and the rest of Vancouver Island

Huupsitas apartments helps to make seniors housing affordable

By Alexandra Mehl Local Journalism Initiative Reporter Port Alberni, BC - In just over a year, a new 48-unit independent living apartment building located on the Tsawaayuus Rainbow Gardens Campus of Care in Port Alberni has helped low-to-moderate income Indigenous elders and seniors with disabilities overcome housing barriers while building a community.

“There is definitely [a] community developing amongst the residents that… were new to each other when they moved in, and now they’re friends,” said Art Van Volsen, building manager of the apartment complex, Huupsitas.

Residents of Huupsitas can be found in the outside gardens socializing or meeting in the amenities area where they host games and bingo nights, he shared.

“The catchphrase [that] comes to mind is, ‘housing is healthcare’,” said Van Volsen. “The folks that are coming here, their health is getting better.”

“It’s important to them to have safe affordable housing,” he said, adding that residents no longer have to worry about paying rent or finding a place to live, but can now focus on enjoying their time without stress.

Financed through BC Housing’s Building BC, the project was built with $5 million as well as annual operating funding amounting to $300,000, reads a recent press release.

“The Huupsitas building will provide the kind of stability and security that seniors and people living with disabilities need more of, so they can retire in the

community they know and love,” said Ravi Kahlon, minister of Housing, in the press release.

Huupsitas, meaning the side of the hill in Nuu-chah-nulth, has 45 one-bedroom units and three two bedrooms.

For half of the units, rent is calculated based on 30 per cent of the tenants income, while nine suites are allocated for those receiving disability assistance or a basic seniors pension. The remaining units are rented to match “low end market rents” up to $850, reads the press release.

The five-story building is located on the southern side of Tsawaayuus Rainbow Gardens Campus of Care at 6161 Russell Pl., also the location of a complex care facility and another independent living apartment building.

All units at Huupsitas are currently filled, shared Van Volsen.

“Enabling this housing is a much-needed act of reconciliaction. This development provides equitable access to safe, affordable, culturally supported living for Indigenous elders,” said Margaret Pfoh, CEO of the Aboriginal Housing Management Association, in the press release.

“A place to call home is essential for the well-being of all Indigenous youth, families, elders and peoples.”

“The initiative outlined in the recent BC Housing announcement, is a beacon of hope for our vulnerable elders community here and on the West Coast,” wrote Derek Appleton, president of WestCoast Native Health Care Society board, in an email to Ha-Shilth-Sa. “[It] is a testament to the importance of inclusive and compassionate housing solutions.”

Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure photo

After a summer of delays and closures due to the Cameron Bluffs wildfire, Highway 4 reopened to two-way traffic at Cameron Lake on Aug. 31. makes a lot of sense because it does inAlthough the response to the Dec. 25 crease the economic capacity of the area, closure had the highway reopened the as well as increases the… emergency next day, Jack shared that there needs to base stability of the communities and the be conversations about the allocation of region as a whole,” said Jack. resources to those stuck during a shutOn Dec. 25, the Ministry of Transportadown who are unable to find a place to tion and Infrastructure was aware of the stay while waiting out the road closure. rockfall at 5 p.m, said Staite. The high“We’re putting information on Drive way was promptly closed, and the next BC, if we believe that there may be a risk morning geotechnical engineers began of [closures] so that folks are aware when their slope assessment, giving crews the they’re leaving the community, or if… okay to clear the debris and replace the they have plans that that potential may damaged roadside barrier, she continued. exist,” said Staite.

Page 6— Ha-Shilth-Sa—January 11, 2024

No salmon farm closures in 2025, says minister DFO is tasked with a transition plan for the controversial industry, but what that will entail remains to be seen

By Eric Plummer Ha-Shilth-Sa Editor British Columbia - The time is quickly approaching for the government to deliver a plan to phase out open net pens, although Canada’s fisheries minister is assuring those tied to the salmon farming industry that no sites will be closed in 2025.

Since 2019 salmon farming has faced a federal mandate to transition from the common industry practice of using net pens in B.C.’s coastal waters. Meeting calls from multiple advocacy groups to eliminate the practice, in December 2019 Prime Minister Justin Trudeau issued former fisheries minister Bernadette Jordan with a post-election directive.

“Work with the province of British Columbia and Indigenous communities to create a responsible plan to transition from open net-pen salmon farming in coastal British Columbia waters by 2025,” read Trudeau’s mandate letter.

Four years later, it appears a plan will be in place by that date, although when and if net pens are removed from the ocean remains a point of speculation.

In July Diane Lebouthillier was named the next minster of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard, the third MP to hold the title since the net-pen transition mandate was issued four years ago.

In December she came to the B.C. coast, a week-long trip that included meetings with some First Nation leaders and a visit to a fish farm near Port Hardy. During an interview with Ha-Shilth-Sa through a French translator, Lebouthillier stressed that although a transition plan is coming, this doesn’t necessarily mean more sites will be removed from coastal waters in the coming years.

“It doesn’t say that we have to close everything, that we have to close all the aquaculture centres. It really means working to put in place measures to protect wild salmon,” she said of the net-pen transition mandate. “I’ve confirmed that there will be no closure of aquaculture centres in 2025. We’re going to present a transition plan, and then we’ll go from there.”

At stake is the future of a species closely tied to the cultural survival of Nuu-chah-nulth. In February the First Nations Fisheries Council of B.C. issued a dire warning, stating that 90 per cent of Pacific salmon populations have declined since the 1970s.

“For First Nations communities on the West Coast of British Columbia, salmon are a pillar of our culture and society,” said Hugh Braker, president First Nations Fisheries Council of B.C. “I cannot imagine the cultures of the West Coast people without salmon, it would be difficult.”

Fraser River populations are particularly threatened, according to the Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada. The committee has assessed 31 salmon units from the Fraser watershed, listing 11 as endangered, two as threatened and seven under “special concern”.

Over a decade ago the Cohen Commission of Inquiry identified fish farms off the coast of Campbell River as a potential risk to these stocks.

“Salmon farms along the sockeye migration route in the Discovery Islands have the potential to introduce exotic diseases and to exacerbate endemic diseases which can have a negative impact on Fraser River sockeye,” stated the commission’s report from 2012. “I therefore conclude that the potential harm posed

Submitted photo

In December Diane Lebouthillier, minster of Fisheries and Oceans Canada and the Canadian Coast Guard, visited a salmon farm near Port Hardy as part of her trip to Vancouver Island, where she spoke to different people about the future of Pacific salmon. operators, undermining governance and that entails employment, operational by salmon farms to Fraser River sockeye salmon is serious or irreversible.” planning, environmental stewardship and economic stability.”

After visiting coastal communities Over the following years, the 15 Discov- business opportunities. on the east side of Vancouver Island, In an opinion piece recently published ery Islands sites became a focal point for Lebouthillier said that working with First those on either sides of the issue. Then in by iPolitics, Ahousaht’s acting Tyee Ha’wilth Hasheukumiss, Richard George, Nations is critical for Canada to better late 2020 Bernadette Jordan announced protect its lands and waters. that the farms would be closed. Operators stated that the government’s mandate to “All the fishers and Indigenous commuremove net pens was issued without “any stopped stocking the pens, while court challenges followed. nities are telling me that we need to work meaningful consultation” with the First An announcement from Fisheries and much more collaboratively. We need to Nation.

Oceans Canada in February of 2023 afwork with science to really counter the “Ahousaht has taken significant steps firmed that the Discovery Islands sites current devastating effects on wild fish,” to ensure the responsible management would be closed permanently, due to she said, noting that a net-pen transition of aquaculture facilities on our territory, scientific uncertainty of how the farmed plan should be ready in 2024. “We’re and to protect wild salmon,” he wrote.

Atlantic salmon are impacting wild going to take our time, we’re going to “Closing aquaculture sites doesn’t only stocks. DFO noted that many First Nado things right, we’re going to table a fly in the face or our rights as a nation. tions along the Fraser River had been plan - but we’re going to have something It means devastating job losses, food unable to access salmon for food, social that’s more realistic, achievable and that’s security concerns, and increased daily and ceremonial purposes. going to be responsible and that’s going costs for Ahousaht muschim (people). It “The state of wild Pacific salmon is dire, also threatens existing economic partnerto take into account the impacts in the and we must do what we can to ensure environment, in rural areas.” ships and agreements with aquaculture their survival,” stated Joyce Murray, who was fisheries minster at the time. “This was a difficult but necessary decision.”

Some First Nations in the region northeast of Vancouver Island supported this announcement, while others disputed the federal government enforcing its will in territorial waters that Indigenous communities have called home for countless generations. The Wei Wai Kai and Wei Wai Kum Nations applied for a judicial review of the decision, and a court hearing on the issue was underway in Vancouver in December while Lebouthillier visited some of B.C.’s coastal communities.

The Coalition of First Nations for Finfish Stewardship is among the groups who have advocated for more say in the future of salmon farms.

“In remote communities, full-time, meaningful employment is almost like having three jobs in the city just for the impact that it has,” said Dallas Smith of Tlowitsis Nation, who is a spokesperson for CFNFFS, during an interview with Ha-Shilth-Sa in October. “Not only does it bring economic opportunity to families and to the workers, it also takes the stress off social service systems that are already overburdened in some of our remote communities.”

Cermaq is one of the three companies that operated the 15 sites in the Discovery Islands. Since 2006 Cermaq has also had a protocol agreement with Ahousaht to run salmon farms in the First Nation’s waters in Clayoquot Sound, an agreement

January 11, 2024—Ha-Shilth-Sa—Page 7

Nootka Sound society gets $1.1M for salmon recovery Government support intended to assist ‘delicate balancing act’ of wild salmon recovery after decades of decline

By Karly Blats Ha-Shilth-Sa Contributor Gold River, BC - The Nootka Sound Watershed Society (NSWS) has received $1.1 million through the BC Salmon Restoration and Innovation Fund (BCSRIF) to support long-term management and recovery of priority salmon stocks.

The project is a continuation of a previously funded BCSRIF project and includes three main objectives: stream temperature monitoring, riparian silviculture restoration, community engagement and expansion of the Nootka Sound Salmon and Watershed Assessment Tool.

The project was developed through collaboration with the Mowachaht/Muchalaht First Nation.

Over three years, these activities will provide crucial physical, technical and decision-support infrastructure to help the NSWS and their partners in ongoing work to support salmon conservation and recovery actions in Nootka Sound. The project is scheduled to be completed in March 2026.

The NSWS is a group of community members, First Nations representatives, local elected representatives, biologists, industry representatives, commercial fishermen, sport fishermen, educators and stewards with a common goal to see a healthy revival of salmon stocks to the Nootka Sound and Esperanza Inlet watersheds.

In April 2022, the NSWS received

Eric Plummer photo

Salmon swim up the Gold River in October 2023. A new watershed restoration tool is designed to visualize the complex pressures facing salmon habitat. $324,953 to develop an action plan to improve and monitor habitat for steelhead trout and Pacific salmon species.

“Salmon stocks in Nootka and Esperanza (Inlet) are in various states of abundance depending on the species

and stock,” said Kent O’Neill, NSWS president. “Hatchery produced chinook salmon numbers are in good shape as a result of a robust enhancement program run by SEP (Salmonid Enhancement Program) and partly supported by NSWS. Wild stocks of chinook salmon, coho, chum and pinks are not as abundant and have diminished over the past 20-plus years.”

Over time, salmon stocks are recovered through protection and habitat restoration along with sustainable harvest practices, fisheries management and favourable ocean survival rates, said O’Neill.

“The science around recovery is a delicate balancing act and there are many factors that influence how stocks respond to recovery such as ocean and stream temperatures, predation, salinity, low oxygen levels and sedimentation,” O’Neill said.

O’Neill added that increased water temperatures in the marine and freshwater environments are significant stressors on fish stocks and can result in rapid changes

that can impact all species of salmon.

The Nootka Sound Salmon and Watershed Restoration Tool is an interactive online program that helps to visualize the habitat pressures to the full spacial extent of Nootka Sound Watersheds.

“It shows metrics such as average stream temperature, fish presence, road density and stream crossings from a watershed level right down to individual stream reaches,” O’Neill said. “The intent of the tool is to support watershed management and prioritization of monitoring and restoration. We are also using the tool to house all our restoration data and monitoring plots.”

The BC Salmon Restoration and Innovation Fund is jointly funded by the Government of Canada and the Province of British Columbia to support the protection and restoration of Pacific salmon and other priority wild fish species. The 2023 funding cycle prioritized projects in the scope of salmon ecosystems, salmon habitats and sustainable fisheries.

The NTC Executive recognize and celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the Ha-Shilth-Sa. We hold up the Ha-Shilth-Sa as being a newspaper that brings breaking news and reporting on stories of interest to Nuu-chah-nulth communities in their successes and challenges and in being educational to many.

We also acknowledge the Nuu-chah-nulth Leadership of 50 years ago, who had the wisdom and foresight to see the value and importance of developing the Ha-Shilth-Sa Newspaper (Interesting News). In doing so, it has been an important communication tool for sharing important news for and about the Nuu-chah-nulth-aht, including the broader community.

We also want to acknowledge the past and present Ha-ShilthSa team of staff, for their perseverance in striving for excellence and adapting with the times to stay relevant by introducing digital news and creating social media forums.

Congratulations Ha-Shilth-Sa and may you have many more years of successful reporting to come!

Page 8— Ha-Shilth-Sa—January 11, 2024 April 7, 1981 July 13, 1978

50 years of

Since first launching in Jan. 24, 1974, the has documented generations of ev to define the history of Nuu-chah-nulthphotos have been colourized from black May 26, 1977

A good net full of sockeye is dragged out of the Somass River by Tseshahtsont one of their fish days.

James Adams of Ahousaht goes home with one of his favorite lunches, kwuk-mis, or herring eggs.

Hesquiaht elders and youngsters both took par potlatch, which was hosted in Tofino by Tla-o-q George Frank. The screen in the background w

by Marie Martin of the Tla-o-qui-aht (Clayoquot

February 28, 1975

April 14, 1975

A large chief’s mask behind the dance curtain originally belonged to Adam Shewish’s grandfather. In 1975 the mask was believed to be over 100 years old. Jacob Gallic is behind the mask with Jimmy Gallic in the foreground.

June 18, 1975

November 29, 1975

Ed Nookemus Huu-ay-aht First Nations (Ohiaht Band)

April 14, 1975

Andrew Callicum of the Mowachaht tribe sings a song while brother Berry and Jerry along with Bobby Joseph danced in the traditional way at the District Council on June 5 and 6.

The revival of potlatching become evident on the west coast as several of the ceremonies occured duthrough 1975. Young Phillip Mack (above) of the Toquaht Band received his traditional name.

Proud to be involved in the ‘Indian moveme Nitinaht Band members sang in appreciatio action taken by the Mowachaht’ From left are: Frank Knighton, Mrs. Chester and Jimmy Chester.

January 11, 2024—Ha-Shilth-Sa—Page 9

ears of ‘interesting news’

hing in Jan. 24, 1974, the Ha-Shilth-Sa d generations of events that have come story of Nuu-chah-nulth-aht. All of these en colourized from black and white.

March 4, 1980 February 28, 1975

May 26, 1977

s and youngsters both took part in a was hosted in Tofino by Tla-o-qui-aht Chief The screen in the background was painted Tla-o-qui-aht (Clayoquot) Nation.

Mabel Taylor, Citizen of the Year, with a cedar bark purse made by one of her students, Julia Lucas.

The design is a sea otter, laying on its back.

May 12, 1975

April 14, 1975

The hard work of the above people made their performances a success in Victoria for Queen Elizabeth. Left to right: Maitless wearing a painted hat; Mr. Jimmy Gallic holding a bag; Ella Thompson, drumming; George Clutesi, drumming; (late) Gus Tuuteesmus, drumming; (late) Frank Williams, hand in pocket; (late) Lesley Williams, drumming; Jackie George, in feather headress; the little girls - (late) Caroline Williams and Shan Gallic, Mrs. Tommy Bill with feathers dancing; Big Annie with back to photo and Mabel Taylor with head showing.

November 23, 1974

Jimmy John and Johnny Williams, two precious members of the West Coast capture the hearts of their people

Ed Nookemus First Nations (Ohiaht Band)

April 14, 1975

Barbequing salmon on the Somass River in 1974.

April 14, 1975

nvolved in the ‘Indian movement’, these d members sang in appreciation of the by the Mowachaht’s at Yuquot recently. : Frank Knighton, Mrs. Thompson, Ernie Jimmy Chester.

September 19, 1978

Martin Edgar Ditidaht First Nation (Nitinaht Band)

The beach area at Neah Bay was a busy place during Makah Days as people gathered to play lahal and watch canoe races.

Page 10— Ha-Shilth-Sa—January 11, 2024

Ha-Shilth-Sa colourized archive photo

Representatives attend a West Coast District Council of Indian Chiefs meeting on March 8, 1974, around the time that the Ha-Shilth-Sa name was selected.

haas*i>sa name selcted from 20 suggestions in 1974 Lightening snake was submi•ed by Hupacasath artist, inspired by story of serpents associated with spirit chiefs

By Holly Stocking Ha-Shilth-Sa Editorial Assistant “Your paper needs a name” was spread across the top of the first Ha-Shilth-Sa Newspaper in big bold letters on January 24, 1974. The idea of the newspaper was conceived by the West Coast District Council of Indian Chiefs in the hope of improving communication between the First Nations governments and the council, reads the front-page story, an idea that has now spanned 50 years.

Over the next couple of months 20 name suggestions were submitted by mail to the council. At a council meeting on March 8th, 1974 ballots were handed out to the chiefs and meeting attendees to vote. After the first vote three names were so close a second round of ballots was needed.

Ha-Shilth-Sa, or haašiłsa meaning interesting news, was submitted by Eugene Amos of Ehattesaht and Cecil Mack of

Toquaht. The runners up were Nay-YeEe, meaning echo, submitted by Arlene Paul and Roy Haiyupis of Ahousaht, and O’Yukah Miss, meaning news, submitted

by Simon Lucas of Hesquiaht and Felix Michael of Nuchatlaht. Ha-Shilth-Sa won.

Charlie Thompson, who was then Nitinaht’s band manager, remembers that “the overall consensus was because HaShilth-Sa was news from Port Renfrew to Kyuquot, so it was only natural that we chose Ha-Shilth-Sa”.

The first paper to don the new name was Vol. 1, No. 3, March 11, 1974, with the story of how the name came to be and a request for the community to now send in art for a new masthead.

With submissions from several artists, a design from well-known Ḥaa’yuups of Hupacasath was chosen, displaying hayee-hik, the lightening snake. The logo design came from Ḥaa’yuups pondering what the logo would be used for: com-

municating.

“I thought about the various forms of communication between ourselves and the spiritual realm and the hay-ee-hik or lightening serpent came to mind, so I decided to do a lightening serpent,” he said. Ḥaa’yuups was inspired by history, thinking of his ancestors and the land they lived on. He told a story of the four great spirit chiefs and the serpents associated with them.

“There’s under sea chief who has a sea serpent, the land chief has a land serpent, and you can see him in designs,” explained Ḥaa’yuups. “He has feet and claws.”

“The lightening serpent is often shown in a zig zag or squiggly form representing lightening, and so I decided to do that to kind of make it a little bit animated,” he continued. “A lot of old material is painted black and red, so I chose to use black and red as design colors.”

In the Oct. 4, 1974 issue, under the front

page headline “Like our masthead?” the story reads, “The legends say the sea serpent travelled with the Thunderbird, sometimes on the leading edge of his wings, sometimes wrapped about him like a belt, sometimes carried by the Thunderbird in his claws or wrapped around his claws.”

But Ḥaa’yuups says that the original story wrote it incorrectly. His design wasn’t a sea serpent, but a lightening snake.

“They are two totally different things.

Hay-ee-hik is a lightening serpent,” he said. Ḥaa’yuups hoped Ha-Shilth-Sa would be an expedient form of communication and thought the most apt design would be the lightening serpent.

After 50 years, the lightening serpent has become a recognizable image to the community as a symbol for interesting news.

Phrase of the week: Y’aay’a qum+ Pronounced ‘yah ya kuu multh’, it means ‘January’ Supplied by ciisma.

Illustration by Koyah Morgan-Banke

January 11, 2024—Ha-Shilth-Sa—Page 11

Alberni organizations prepare for holiday needs Port Alberni’s Salvation Army assembled Christmas hampers for over 2,400 clients, more than in previous years

By Karly Blats Ha-Shilth-Sa Contributor Port Alberni, BC - This holiday season, like all years, the Alberni Valley Salvation Army were working hard to help feed the unhoused community and provide needed necessities.

Pastor Michael Ramsay and his team of staff and volunteers provided those in need with a Christmas meal on Dec. 25 at the Bread of Life at noon. In addition, meals were brought to shelter guests at Our Home on Eighth and to those living in the new tiny homes on Fourth Avenue.

“Further to that, for those who are completely out of doors, we’ll send out our trucks and volunteers and we’ll have packaged up Christmas meals that we will bring out to people who are outdoors on Christmas as well,” Ramsay said. “We’ll try and make an atmosphere where it’s as much as family as we can for people.”

Ramsay said that over the season the Salvation Army saw more than 2,400 people accessing their hamper program— which he said is higher than in previous years.

“It’s astonishing actually for a community this size,” Ramsay said. “I don’t know that I’ve actually seen anything like it before.”

Ramsay said the Salvation Army provides a variety of hampers for people who are “housing insecure” and who are living outdoors.

“We know some of the homeless and those struggling with housing security… some of them have pets as well so we’ve been even able to provide little presents and hampers for people who have pets,” Ramsay said. “Our team of volunteers, staff and community members have really been going that extra mile to try and make this - which can be a very difficult month and very difficult season - as good as possible and really try to include people in our family here.”

Those struggling in December who have children were also able to access the Salvation Army’s Angel Program. The program allows children to write down items they hope to get for Christmas and community members can chose to purchase those items for the young ones.

“We know there’s no greater feeling for a parent on Christmas day to be able to give their children that one thing that they’ve been dreaming about,” Ramsay said.

Eric Plummer photo

Lisa George, the Salvation Army’s director of Community Resources, stands with a collection of hampers and gifts ready to be distributed in Port Alberni. that offers 19 emergency spaces and a The Bread of Life also offers warm Stevens said. “So far, this project is dozen 30-day beds for those experiencing changing lives, and we see what a posimeals to those in need every day of the homelessness. week. tive impact it has to those who are ready “We also offer those sleeping rough a In October of 2023, the Salvation Army for this type of housing program.” place to shower, a hot meal, a place to received $12,500 for their community According to data from the Province of keep warm during the day up until 10 food bank from the Province of B.C. B.C., a sharp rise in deaths among those Ramsay said this funding was put directly p.m. and access to services on-site such experiencing homelessness continued in towards feeding people either through the as counselling, activities, housing support 2022. services and access to a physician,” said hampers or the Bread of Life.

The deaths of at least 342 people exCyndi Stevens, executive director of the In addition to the added meals and periencing homelessness were reported Port Alberni Friendship Center. services the Salvation Army provides to the BC Coroners Service in 2022, Stevens said the shelter on Eighth is full continuing an increase in deaths among over the holidays, the organization also on most nights by 6 p.m. runs a 25-bed shelter at the Bread of Life the unhoused population of 138 per cent “We sadly have to turn away more Centre. over the previous two years, according to people on colder and rainy nights,” Ste“I know that certainly when the tema news release. vens said. “We will often call other sites, perature drops or when it gets rainy The toxic drug supply has significantly such as sobering centre, Salvation Army that’s when we’re certainly nearest our contributed to the increased number of and Maitland Shelter to see if they have capacity,” Ramsay said. “I know there’s deaths among people who are precariousspace.” been days when we’ve had to open our ly housed or experiencing homelessness, Stevens added there is still a long list of overflow emergency weather response.” states the release. More than eight out unhoused individuals in the community According to the 2023 province-wide of every 10 deaths in the review period point-in-time homeless count, 163 people and many who may need more complex were classified as accidental, and of those care. in Port Alberni identified as being homeaccidental deaths, more than nine in 10 less, a 30 per cent increase over the past Walyaqil Tiny Home Village on Fourth were determined to have been caused by two years. Sixty-six per cent of responAvenue, designed to be temporary housunregulated drugs. The period studied dents identified as being Indigenous ing, opened in late October. Stevens said was between 2015 -2022. compared to 15 per cent of the census it’s now full and there is a waitlist.

Townships with the highest number of population.

“We are working towards finding addeaths between 2015 and 2022 were VanThe Port Alberni Friendship Center ditional funding to bring 10 more tiny couver (306), Surrey (146) and Victoria operates Our Home on Eighth, a shelter homes on property in the New Year,” (118).

CYPRESS RESTAURANT & LOUNGE 250.724.7629

Page 12— Ha-Shilth-Sa—January 11, 2024

President’s Message Happy New year to you all. Hope the Winter Solstice and the new calendar year brought good things to you and your families. The NTC offices closed for the holiday break so things did slow down.

Deepest condolences to those who have lost ones. The drug crisis is taking so much from us and efforts are being made to try and address this situation.

I wanted to mention the passing of two significant leaders in B.C. Chief Bill Cramner of Namgis/Alert Bay and Chief Clem Seymour of Seabird Island. Both leaders contributed greatly to the advancement of rights and title and sustainable economic development. They will be missed around the leadership tables in B.C. and across Turtle Island.

The NTC AGM was held on the last day of November. We had a presentation on language from Tla-o-qui-aht on what they are working on for their language to thrive and the initiatives they have undertaken. After the presentation many First Nations talked of their efforts and the barriers for further progress. Finance was one of the big ones. After the discussion a motion was passed declaring the Nuu-chah-nulth languages to be in a state of emergency. One member from each Nuu-chah-nulth Nation is to sit on a committee to oversee the work of the digitization of Nuu-chah-nulth speakers in NTC archives. That funding be sought for a researcher to go through the archives and take out the footage people speaking our language. Also that a database be put together with all our speakers.

The amount of speakers videotaped speaking at our assemblies, treaty and other meetings is voluminous. While our media staff did try to obtain some of the language from the meetings the job was too immense to be done by staff and someone needs to be able to download the speaking if we are to get it done. We will look for funding to do this and if possible do translations as well.

It was also brought to the assembly’s attention that B.C. intends to cut back on language funding significantly. We heard up to 58 per cent could be cut, which means little funding would be available to our First Nations. The executive is writing letters and other advocacy to have the province continue funding our language. We are also advocating to the federal government, as it was their policy not to allow our language to be spoken in residential schools. In B.C.’s action plan to implement the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, according to action number 4.30 they committed to supporting Indigenous language revitalization through sustainable funding. Cutting back on funding runs contrary to their commitment and support of revitalizing our languages.

In my last report, I mentioned the AFN election for national chief was to happen on December 6th. On December 7th, Cindy Woodhouse won the position of national chief for a three-and-a-half-year term. Cindy was part of the team that negotiated the $44 billion settlement for children in care and for improving services for children going forward. Cindy has also been regional chief for Manitoba and brings experience and knowledge to the position. I look forward to working with her on many issues and calling on her when Nuu-chah-nulth needs help nationally.

The NTC had a Memorandum of Understanding with the First Nations Health Council to guide how we would work together to support each other’s efforts in health development, most importantly on

how we will communicate with one other.

Our MOU has expired and we are in the process of negotiating a new one. We have a working group with any interested nation who will review and improve upon our first one and then bring it to the directors for their review.

The executive had meetings with the ISC Minister Patty Hadju and the regional director general for B.C. trying to work out funding issues and formulas and trying to increase funding for capital and other areas. We will be negotiating an MOU with ISC on how we will work on funding as ISC has been unilaterally making decisions on funding without talking to NTC and this is unacceptable.

They are trying to pass on various things like housing and capital, but we have to ensure that funding is secure and understand what they are really trying to do with funding.

I am still working with the First Nations Electricity Advisory Group and BC Hydro on how they will do their call for power, how First Nation benefits will be assessed and how to do the next call for power more strategically that includes First Nations more fully. They have made good attempts to engage First Nations but it must be done at the very beginning of the process and provide for more opportunities for First Nations.

Right now, BC Hydro is not too interested in smaller projects because it takes more work to integrate more smaller projects into their grid than larger ones and they also are limited in the amount of staff they have to deal with many small projects. These are issues we can talk through and try to find solutions for.

Going forward into the new year I will continue to advance Nuu-chah-nulth rights through the many initiatives that are in place to implement the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples both provincially and federally. I will continue working in my portfolio areas of fisheries, children and families, administration, education, heritage, gaming, justice and all other areas of interest to Nuu-chah-nulth.

I will also be working to strengthen our relationships with AFN, B.C. Assembly of First Nations, the First Nations Summit and the Union of BC Indian Chiefs and work in collaboration with the B.C. and federal government to ensure the governments live up to their commitments of change. Action, not just words.

I look forward to working with all of you in the work we need to do in 2024.

Community&Beyond Nuu-chah-nulth Baby Group

Cultural Brushings with Quu asa

Every Monday

Every Friday

CYS - 4841 Redford Street

Administration Building

10am-12pm. We offer Prenatal and infant development information, special guests, snacks provide and $20.00 food voucher per family. Referrals when needed. NTC Nursing and Doula’s 250-724-3939.

Enter from 4th avenue side, building with orange stripe.

9:00am-12:00pm Cultural Brushings in support of the Tseshaht Community.

If you have any questions, please call Leanne Harding, Administrative Assistant 250-724-1225

Girls Group

December 4-8

Every Tuesday

Port Alberni – Family Centre

Port Alberni – Usma culture space

Preventions Services is offering a Parenting Program for parents of children ages 0-5 with childminding available.

This program is designed to target self-trauma & parenting skills through modern & traditional guidance. The program runs over a 1-week period: 9:00am – 4:30pm daily & Tuesday & Wednesday 7:00pm – 8:30 pm. 100% commitment to the program, Graduation certificate & $300.00 prepaid credit card upon completion. Lunch and snacks are provided daily. Limited seating. For more information and to sign up contact Gail K. Gus at 250-731-6622 or gkgus@ tseshaht.com

5:00pm-7:00pm Girls ages 13-18. Need a safe space? Want to express yourself?

Looking to learn to bake and cook? Do you enjoy doing crafts? Come join us for fun activities with food and refreshments every Tuesday!

Port Alberni Friendship Center – Eating in Balance

Every Wednesday PAFC 1:00pm – 3:00pm. Participants work together to make a meal, discuss health and food related topics. Participants who work (cook and clean) with the group will receive a $10.00 grocery coupon that can be used at either Quality Foods or Buy-Low Foods. Childminder on premises. A drop-in group, no registration required. For more information about our program, please call and ask for Amber – 250-735-6276 ext. 233. A part of the ASI Early Years program.

Westcoast Community Resources Society Community Lunch

Tseshaht Parenting Program

Tseshaht Community Christmas Dinner

Sunday December 10th Maht Mahs Gym Doors Open 4:30pm. Dinner 5:00pm.

We are looking for a family to step up and cook for everyone this year! We look forward to seeing everyone on Sunday!

We heard that even Santa may make an appearance.

Every Thursday Westcoast Community Services hub – 500 Matterson Drive, Ucluelet 11:30am – 1:00pm. 250-726-2343, admin@wccrs.ca, www.wccrs.ca

Le!er to the editor I would like to express my sincere appreciation for the outstanding efforts of James Fothergill-Brown, Emergency Services Coordinator at Ditidaht First Nation. He applied and secured the funding from the Rick Hanson Foundation for the diverse-ability access building improvements, brought in the Telus team to improve cellular communication, secured AED unit and implementation training, firefighter training, leads weekly volunteer firefighter practice, brought in essential first aid training, implements data tracking, community safety meetings, and much more.

James’s unwavering commitment to the safety and wellbeing of Ditidaht members has not gone unnoticed. His relentless efforts in implementing and maintaining crucial measures for emergency services have made a significant impact on the community. In times of uncertainty and challenges, James has demonstrated exemplary dedication, ensuring that the members of Ditidaht are well-prepared and protected.

It is evident that James’s passion for his role goes beyond professional duty; it reflects a genuine concern for the community’s welfare. His leadership and

proactive approach have undoubtedly contributed to creating a safer and more secure environment for everyone in Ditidaht.

Please convey my heartfelt gratitude to James Fothergill-Brown for his exceptional work. His dedication to emergency services is a source of inspiration, and it is truly commendable. The Ditidaht community is fortunate to have such a dedicated and compassionate individual safeguarding their interests.

Once again, thank you, James, for your tireless efforts and commitment to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of Ditidaht members. Your contributions are deeply valued and make a meaningful difference in the lives of those you serve. ƛ´ekoo, Judi Thomas Chief Councillor Ditidaht First Nation

January 11, 2024—Ha-Shilth-Sa—Page 13

Employment and Training Port Alberni Friendship Centre Volunteers Needed Need work experience? The Port Alberni Friendship Centre is looking for interested applicants for various positions. Call 250-723-8281 Wikimedia Commons photo

A house fire on the Tseshaht reserve Tuesday started in the kitchen, according to the Port Alberni Fire Department, sending one person to hospital.

Housefire on Tseshaht reserve sends one person to Port Alberni hospital ‘Be mindful of extra fire hazards during the holiday season,’ says fire department, citing kitchen as source

By Denise Titian Ha-Shilth-Sa Reporter Port Alberni, BC – The Port Alberni Fire Department was called to a house fire shortly after noon on December 19 at a home near Haahuupayuk School on the Tseshaht First Nation reserve.

According to PAFC Deputy Chief Travis Cross, one person was sent to hospital and the home sustained some damage.

Sources say the occupant was taken to hospital suffering from smoke inhalation.

“When we arrived, we observed smoke coming from the home, but the fire was out,” Cross told Ha-Shilth-Sa. He said the cause of the blaze was from cooking and the homeowner was able to extinguish the fire before the fire department arrived.

According to Cross, the fire damage was contained indoors.

“You couldn’t tell from the outside that there was a fire,” he added.

Fire crews checked the home to ensure the fire was completely out and cleared it of smoke.

Check out our new Facebook page Nuu-chah-nulth Jobs and Events Updated daily!

“One person was transported to hospital,” said Cross.

Cross said a Tseshaht emergency worker was on scene for the residents of the home.

Tseshaht Chief Councillor Ken Watts said the First Nation wants to support the family impacted.

“We wish our member well and healthy recovery,” wrote Watts in an email to HaShilth-Sa. “Our nation posted opportunities from fundraisers that their supports have started.”

Cross advised people to be mindful of increased fire hazards during the holiday season.

“This is the time where we do more cooking for more people, there are decorations out, candles being used and homes to be heated which increases the risk of fire,” said Cross.

He reminds people to stay in attendance when doing things like cooking or burning candles.

“Be mindful of extra fire hazards during the holiday season,” Cross advised.

Page 14— Ha-Shilth-Sa—January 11, 2024

Evidence from Pickton case set to be destroyed With dozens of unsolved murders, NTC adds its voice to those opposed to destroying 14,000 pieces of evidence

By Denise Titian Ha-Shilth-Sa Reporter Vancouver, BC – It’s been more than 20 years since Robert William “Willie” Pickton was arrested on illegal gun charges at his Port Coquitlam pig farm. Armed with warrants, investigators searching the pig farm property soon found evidence that something more serious had happened.

On Feb. 22, 2002 Pickton was charged with two counts of murder, launching an investigation that was dubbed the largest crime scene in Canada’s history.

Over 18 months of investigation, which involved heavy equipment and sifting through 383,000 cubic yards of soil in the search for human remains, more than 600,000 items were seized by police from the farm. Along with personal belongings of missing women, investigators uncovered partial human remains and DNA evidence indicating that more than two dozen women lost their lives there.

According to a Canadian Encyclopedia article written in January 2023, at least 65 women were reported missing from Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside between 1978 and 2001. Pickton claimed to have killed 49, and he was officially linked to 26 missing DTES women. Of these cases, the first went missing in 1995 and the last seven disappeared in 2001.

Pickton preyed on vulnerable women – those with addiction issues and sex trade workers.

Other missing women could not be linked to Pickton, due to lack of evidence.

Two of those women were Nuu-chahnulth-aht.

Elsie Sebastian of Pacheedaht went missing in 1992, when she was 40. It took many years for the local police department to make a missing persons report in her case. A residential school survivor, family members say Sebastian struggled with addiction. She has not been officially linked to Pickton.

Kellie Little, was transgender and suffered from congenital birth defects, including being born with one kidney, cleft palate, deformed jaw and had hearing loss. Little had a difficult childhood, having grown up in the foster care system, and she suffered from addictions.

She was from Nuchahtlaht and was last seen April 1997, when she was 28. Little had a friend that knew Pickton, and it is believed she came in contact with him around the time of her disappearance.

On Jan. 22, 2007, Pickton went on trial for the first six of the 26 murders he had been charged with. On Dec. 9, 2007 he was found guilty by jury on six counts of second-degree murder and was given the maximum sentence of life in prison and no chance of parole for 25 years.

In a controversial decision, the remaining 20 murder charges against Pickton were stayed because he had already received the maximum punishment under Canadian law. There is DNA evidence linking these 20 missing women to Pickton’s farm, along with additional cases that have yet to be charged, but there are no provisions under Canadian law for consecutive life sentences.

The RCMP have now applied to the courts seeking permission to return or destroy approximately 14,000 exhibits seized during the Pickton investigation.

According to a family member of Elsie Sebastian, there are hundreds of pieces of women’s personal effects, including clothing, shoes, purses, jewelry, and make-up that were seized from the farm.

She was not able to identify any of the

Alexandra Mehl photo

Feb. 14, 2023 marked the 32nd year that the streets of Downtown Eastside flooded with remembrance of murdered and missing Indigenous women, girls, and gender diverse peoples. Currently serving a life sentence, Robert Pickton has been linked to the murder of dozens of women from the area, although many other cases remain unsolved. items as belonging to her missing mother.

Family members still looking for anespecially in cases inswers are concerned. volving Indigenous and “This latest step by the RCMP to seek marginalized women disposal of all exhibits a mere 20 years and girls.” after the investigation on the farm sends “We also need more the message that the missing and muraccountability with the dered women’s cases are closed, despite RCMP and other police the majority of them being unsolved,” forces to ensure the said Sue Brown, a staff lawyer at the handling of evidence Vancouver-based Justice for Girls. reflects the highest The First Nations Leadership Counstandards of investigacil points out that Pickton confessed to tion,” she added. “Reckilling 49 women, the majority of whom onciliation and justice were Indigenous, and was charged with go hand in hand.” the murders of 26. With so many cases “We call for systemic unsolved, FNLC says the Pickton case change that upholds the has been marked by the marginalization rights of all Indigenous of victims and families, discrimination, women,” stated First Robert Pickton police mismanagement, apathy, and Nation Summit Politinegligence. perpetrated against Indigenous women in cal Executive Cheryl Casimer. “The Unit“[T]his latest application by the RCMP ed Nations Declaration on the Rights of contravention of the National Inquiry’s is another instance of harmful conduct Indigenous Peoples, the Calls for Justice, Calls for Justice and their legal obligathat deeply impacts survivors and family tions under the Declaration on the Rights outstanding recommendations from the members,” the FNLC wrote in a stateOppal Inquiry, Highway of Tears Sympoof Indigenous Peoples Act. ment. “Disposal of this evidence may sium Report, and the Red Woman Rising “There has already been much damage negatively impact the ability for these Report, among many others, provide and negative impacts from the Pickton families to ever know what happened to direction on the urgent actions required to case and to destroy the evidence only their loved ones and removes all remainperpetuates the injustice,” said Nuu-chah- uphold the safety and wellbeing of Indiging hope for their pursuit of some semnulth Tribal Council President Cloy-e-iis, enous women and gender diverse people, blance of justice.”

Judith Sayers. “NTC stands with others to including the rights of sex workers.”

Several victims’ families, groups and “The will of those most impacted must not destroy the evidence and for suffiorganizations are opposed to destroying cient resources be allocated to ensure this guide how evidence is managed in this the 14,000 pieces of evidence, citing the case,” stated B.C. Assembly of First evidence is preserved so unsolved cases dozens of other unsolved cases that could may be solved.”

Nations Regional Chief Terry Teegee. be related to these items. Many believe “December 6, 2023 marked the National “We call for urgent action to ensure that other people were involved in these the proposed disposal of evidence in Day of Remembrance and Action on murders and, with the rapid evolution of the Pickton case does not proceed. The Violence against Women as well as 20 DNA science, could be identified in the RCMP and other policing bodies must be years since the Pickton farm was finally future. accountable for adhering to their obligasearched and we’re still echoing the But the RCMP argue that all the DNA tions; conducting thorough and respectful calls of family members for the RCMP evidence has been collected and added investigations that uphold the human and and justice authorities to prioritize and to a database and all the items have been Indigenous rights of Indigenous peoples.” dedicate adequate resources to pursuing photographed.

“There must be consistent efforts and justice for the murder victims,” stated On December 11 the First Nations Lead- Grand Chief Stewart Phillip, president resources put towards the unsolved missership Council called for the preservation of the Union of BC Indian Chiefs. “This ing women’s investigations related to the of evidence collected in the Pickton case Pickton case,” said Sayers. “This case has evidence, which includes cherished and demanded that the rights of victims, been tragic for many and solving some of belongings of stolen loved ones, holds survivors and families be upheld. these cases would go a long way to helpa truth, and as far as I’m concerned, the The FNLC went on to say that the ing make things better.” police have no authority over the truth.”

RCMP’s application to dispose of the The RCMP application to dispose of Sayers agreed, saying, “in line with 14,000 exhibits demonstrates a continued UNDRIP and the Declaration Act, the 14,000 exhibits will be back in BC failure by police and Crown governments there must be a reform of the legislative Supreme Court in New Westminster in to ensure accountability for violence January 2024. framework around evidence disposition,

January 11, 2024—Ha-Shilth-Sa—Page 15

Projects examine how rec fishery is affecting salmon Harm from catch-and-release and the potential for more hatchery catches are among research topics explored

By Eric Plummer Ha-Shilth-Sa Editor This year intensive projects are underway off Vancouver Island’s coast to take a closer look at the health of salmon species - including research into the controversial angling practice of catch and release.

Over $3 million in government funds are being directed to the Sport Fishing Institute of B.C. to collect more data on chinook and coho stocks off southeastern Vancouver Island and around Bamfield’s coast. Announced in late November, the province states these research projects will support threatened Pacific salmon stocks by making the recreational fishery more sustainable. The projects are being financed by the $146-million B.C. Salmon Restoration and Innovation Fund, 70 per cent of which is backed by Fisheries and Oceans Canada, with the remainder covered by the provincial government.

The region around the southern Gulf Islands, Saanich and southwestern Vancouver Island “show a consistent lack of adequate and up-to-date data” on salmon stocks, according to an email from the B.C. Ministry of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship, “including non-retention management measures and rising costs associated with volunteer efforts.”

For this reason a test fishery is being planned for the island’s southeast coast, which entails professional charter guides and technicians catching chinook to collect biological samples. This is intended to provide information on migration timing and the routes that hatchery-raised fish take.

The Sport Fishing Institute of B.C. is managing the project with $1.6 million in government funding. Lance Weber, the institute’s director of Best Practices Projects, said one goal of the test fishery is to decrease stress on wild-raised salmon by exploring the potential for hatchery fish supporting a recreational fishery. Hatchery fish can be identified by a clipped adipose fin, which is located near the tail.

“The idea of a test fishery is to try to better understand information on what’s going on out on the water in terms of fish that are potentially being released during the recreational fishery,” said Weber.

“What stocks are they? What are the mark rates? What approximate size?”

The hope is to find ways for an industry that contributes $1 billion annually to B.C.’s economy to continue without pushing more wild stocks to the brink of extinction. According to the province, approximately 9,000 people live off the sports fishing industry, many of whom are in coastal communities.

But conservation measures have led to more area closures in recent years, leading some to wonder if hatcheries could be part of a solution for rec fishing.

“Access and opportunity have been severely restricted in the current environment,” said Weber. “If we were allowed to harvest these hatchery fish and have fisheries focused on them, there would be a lot more access and opportunity available.”

With the window of opportunity narrowing for anglers to keep salmon, catch and release has become a common practice for sports fishers. For years the Tofino Resort and Marina hosted Fish for the Future Tournament in the summer, where competing fishers only keep their catches long enough for a boat with a scale to come and weigh them before the salmon are released back into the ocean. This

Carolyn Jasken photos

A DFO enforcement boat approaches a recreational fishing vessel near Bamfield (above). A fish is caught on a line during a sports fishing opening in the Alberni Inlet (below).

“The idea of a test fishery is to try to better understand information on what’s going on out on the water in terms of fish that are potentially being released during the recreational fishery” ~ Lance Weber, Sport Fishing Institute of B.C.

derby raised money for salmon conservation efforts, but questions remain around how many of the fish survive after being released.

Another government-funded project managed by the Sports Fishing Institute aims to put coho salmon “under the microscope” through a research project in Bamfield over the next two years. The $1.7-million study examines how interactions with recreational fishing gear affects the health of coho, using researchers from the University of British Columbia who will release their own findings.

After being caught with recreational gear, the salmon spend 10 days in a holding tank for a metabolic assessment. The study aims to examine 480 coho, following the same process that was undertaken at the Bamfield Marine Sciences centre over the last two years on chinook salmon.

“It is essentially like taking a chinook to the cardiologist and putting it on a

Lance Weber

treadmill to better understand how it absorbs oxygen and what that means to its metabolic rate,” explained Weber of the 10-day holding tank examination, which assesses wound progression and other effects of encounters with recreational gear.

For years the Nuu-chah-nulth Council of Ha’wiih Forum on Fisheries has questioned why catch and release is still permitted, given the threatened state of many salmon stocks.

“What is the policy, or procedure, that allows that to happen? Catching and release in ocean fisheries is not benign, there’s a mortality to it,” asked Jim Lane, acting program manager for Uu-a-thluk, to DFO staff during a Council of Ha’wiih meeting back in July. “We’re talking about preserving and conserving WCVI chinook and other chinook populations, and then you have resorts in Tofino having catch-and-release derbies for chinook when the area is closed for retention.”

While the Sport Fishing Institute awaits

more data on how much this practice is harming wild salmon, so far Weber says some things have become evident.

“The best possible thing we can do from a best practices standpoint is if we’re not intending to harvest or retain the fish that’s on the line, handle that fish as little as possible,” he said. “If there are areas that have high numbers of smaller fish that an angler might know they’re going to release, avoid those areas.”

So far Fisheries and Oceans Canada has declined to present a clear position on catch and release, besides just allowing it to continue. Meanwhile reporting catches is mandatory for anyone to have a recreational licence, but anglers are only required to disclose their activity on the water for a one-month period specified by the licence. Any halibut, chinook or lingcod that are caught at any time must be reported through the National Recreational Licencing System.

During the Council of Ha’wiih meeting last summer, Harold Amos from Ehattesaht questioned why his nation’s rights-based fishery faces more stringent reporting requirements.

“What I would appreciate is DFO doing the same service to the sports sector as they expect of our T’aaq-wiihak fleet,” he said.

“The method of monitoring sporties is not acceptable to our people,” stressed Council of Ha’wiih Chair Cliff Atleo during the meeting. “It’s totally inadequate, as a matter of fact.” “[T]he fish resorts up and down the coast who are said to be regulated, but what’s going on there? Exploitation,” added Uchucklesaht Ha’wilth Clifford Charles. “[F]isheries officers are the front lines promoting compliance, building awareness and enforcing the rules and regulations under several federal acts,” wrote a DFO spokesperson in an email referencing monitoring in the sports fishery.

“Using a risk-based approach, we deploy fishery officers around British Columbia, where necessary, to respond to priority issues using a variety of methods, including aerial, ocean, river, on-the-ground, night and undercover patrols, while also pursuing complex and large investigations.”

Page 16— Ha-Shilth-Sa—January 11, 2024