2023 Winter Newsletter

2023 Khaye

Winter Newsletter

1910 Declaration of the Tahltan Tribe

WE THE

UNDERSIGNED MEMBERS OF THE TAHLTAN TRIBE,

speaking for ourselves, and our entire tribe, hereby make known to all whom it may concern, that we have heard of the Indian Rights movement among the Indian tribes of the Coast, and of the southern interior of B.C. Also, we have read the Declaration made by the chiefs of the southern interior tribes at Spences Bridge on the 16th July last, and we hereby declare our complete agreement with the demands of same, and with the position taken by the said chiefs, and their people on all the questions stated in the said Declaration, and we furthermore make known that it is our desire and intention to join with them in the fight for our mutual rights, and that we will assist in the furtherance of this object in every way we can, until such time as all these matters of moment to us are finally settled. We further declare as follows:

FIRSTLY – We claim the sovereign right to all the country of our tribe—this country of ours which we have held intact from the encroachments of other tribes, from time immemorial, at the cost of our own blood. We have done this because our lives depended on our country. To lose it meant we would lose our means of living, and therefore our lives. We are still, as heretofore, dependent for our living on our country, and we do not intend to give away the title to any part of same without adequate compensation. We deny the B.C. government has any title or right of ownership in our country. We have never treatied with them, nor given them any such title. (We have only very lately learned the B.C. government makes this claim, and that it has for long considered as its property all the territories of the Indian tribes in B.C.)

SECONDLY – We desire that a part of our country, consisting of one or more large areas (to be selected by us), be retained by us for our own use, said lands and all thereon to be acknowledged by the government as our absolute property. The rest of our tribal land we are willing to relinquish to the B.C. government for adequate compensation.

THIRDLY – We wish it known that a small portion of our lands at the mouth of the Tahltan river, was set apart a few years ago by Mr. Vowell as an Indian reservation. These few acres are the only reservation made for our tribe. We may state we never applied for the reservation of this piece of land, and we had no knowledge why the government set it apart for us, nor do we know exactly yet.

FOURTHLY – We desire that all questions regarding our lands, hunting, fishing, etc., and every matter concerning our welfare, be settled by treaty between us and the Dominion and B.C. governments.

FIFTHLY – We are of the opinion it will be better for ourselves, also better for the governments and all concerned, if these treaties are made with us at a very early date, so all friction, and misunderstanding between us and the whites may be avoided, for we hear lately much talk of white settlements in the region and the building of railways, etc., in the near future.

Signed at Telegraph Creek, B.C., this eighteenth day of October, nineteen hundred and ten, by NANOK, Chief of the Tahltans NASTULTA, alias Little Jackson GEORGE ASSADZA, KENETL, alias Big Jackson And eighty other members of our tribe.

Message from the President

staff have when it comes to protecting the Tahltan Nation’s rights and title. I was proud to watch these young adults be actively engaged and prouder still to see the hard work they put in on Tahltan Night as they supported the event in any way that they could; their enthusiasm was contagious. I encourage other Tahltan Youth to apply and join us for AME Roundup in future years, as well as other events we open up to our young people.

Chad Norman Day President, Tahltan Central Government

Tahltan Night was an opportunity to share concerns about activities in Tahltan Territory and to highlight infrastructure and service issues within our communities. In particular, there has been a lot of discussion on roads and highway conditions which are currently unacceptable. We at the TCG will continue to work tirelessly while holding the Province accountable so we see improvements. I must extend a special thank you to Roxanne Ball, TCG’s Events Manager, and Ombrielle Neria, Communications & I would like

to begin by wishing everyone a very Happy New Year. I hope you were able to relax a bit and enjoyed gathering with your loved ones over the holidays. I am sure that everyone appreciates the ability to return to normal following so many challenges with the pandemic. I hope 2023 is a year of unity, opportunity, and strength for all Tahltans and for the Tahltan Central Government as we work to serve you.

On the subject of returning to normal, the TCG team and I were grateful for an in-person return to Association for Mineral Exploration (AME) Roundup in Vancouver this January. The TCG Leadership and staff in attendance were joined by Leadership from the Tahltan Band, Iskut Band, Tahltan Nation Development Corporation (TNDC) and ten Tahltan Youth from various locations.

It is always useful having these in-person meetings with industry representatives as it allows Tahltan Leadership to directly advocate for Tahltan interests/ concerns, meet company personnel and ask questions about activity in Tahltan Territory. Youth had an opportunity to witness this firsthand and see the passion that their leaders and government

Above: With the Youth at Roundup.

External Relations Director, for their hard work and dedication to ensuring AME Roundup 2023 was a huge success.

I am also pleased to share that TCG has partnered with TNDC, the Government of BC, and several industry partners to create a pilot Tahltan Nation Heavy Equipment Operator Training Program. The program aims to provide increased job opportunities to Tahltans in territory without requiring them to travel great distances or work away from home by offering training through senior experienced Tahltan operators. More details can be found in Press Releases under the Announcements section of this newsletter. We have always worked and will continue to strive to provide Tahltans with opportunities for professional development.

I am looking forward to TCG’s upcoming Dease Lake Job Fair & Resource Forum this April. The event will bring employers together in one place and offer local Tahltans a way of exploring current and future employment and training opportunities and a chance to learn about how to apply for them. I encourage everyone who can attend to come and join us, including students and Tahltan Youth who

may be looking for employment opportunities in the near future. For those unable to attend, TCG’s 2023 Industry Review Newsletter will ensure you learn a lot about many of the companies working in Tahltan Territory along with the opportunities that flow from such activities.

I would like to welcome all of our new TCG employees and congratulate those who have moved into new positions, including Cassandra Puckett who will be moving into the role of Health Director for TCG’s new Health Department. Please see the Health Department section in this newsletter to learn more.

In closing, I wish everyone a happy and healthy 2023. Welcome to all of our new Tahltans who were born this season. We are excited to watch you grow and we will always strive to do work that will benefit you in your future. We honour the Tahltans we have lost and share condolences with those who have been left behind.

Above: Nisga’a Nation President Eva Clayton announcing our new partnership at Tahltan Night.

Message from the Vice President

My cultural goal for the following months is to complete tanning a moose hide. I assisted Estsu Ichamma (Violet Carlick) years ago and the process is very delicate in all stages. It is very important for me to connect with this cultural practice. My grandmother was very knowledgeable about our culture in all facets, and very much so when tanning moose hides and sewing. I am excited to complete this goal. I feel so much closer to her when I practice what she taught me. I will share my results in the future.

In the meantime, I would like to take the time to reflect and share about my time with my fellow TCG Board Members.  In January, we had a protocol meeting with all the Tahltan governing entities, including the Iskut Band, Tahltan Band, and the TCG. It was a great two-day meeting. We had some new board members that were recently onboarded and were being brought up to speed on Tahltan initiatives and activities.  The following two days were with our TCG Board of Directors and following that, we had three days of industry meetings in which all three governing entities were present and had the opportunity to listen to each presentation and to share concerns and comments.

Heather Hawkins Vice President, Tahltan Central Government

Dẕenēs hoti’e Tahltans, With us being right in the middle of winter, everything in nature seems to slow down; a time for renewal. This allows time for reflection and deep thinking. Unlike mother nature, things do not slow down for the Tahltan Central Government (TCG). This is the time that we use to prepare and plan for the busy summer months of harvesting and reconnecting with family and the land.

For the grand finale of the week, we facilitated Tahltan Night where we invited our urban membership, Indigenous and industry partners, and Leadership and other representatives from the Yukon, Northwest Territories, and BC governments to celebrate Tahltans and our relationships. This was a great opportunity to acknowledge and celebrate with our Tahltan members, and celebrate the appointment of the Honorary Jeanie McLean, Deputy Premier for the Yukon Government.

It is always nice to work with fellow passionate Tahltans, especially with such diverse professional and educational backgrounds. I feel very honoured to work alongside each one of them to ensure our government is working at its best to serve our Tahltan citizens. My aspiration for our government is to achieve unity. I believe that if we combine our myriad of differing perspectives, nothing can fall through the gaps and if we strive to work together; unity is achievable. This is the way forward where we can continue to create positive change for our Nation.

SAVE THE DATES

Upcoming holidays and Tahltan events

Ȗ APRIL 7: Good Friday – TCG Closed

Ȗ APRIL 10: Easter Monday – TCG Closed

Ȗ APRIL 14-15: Dease Lake Job Fair

Ȗ MAY 14: Mother’s Day

Ȗ MAY 22: Victoria Day – TCG Closed

New Tahltans

VIOLA MERCY VIOLET

DENNIS

April Dennis

December 16, 2022 4lbs 4oz

ADELYN MARTINA FERGUSON

Bluebell Louie & Kiel Ferguson

January 12, 2023 7lbs 3oz

MARLENA JAYDE ABOU-MONTGOMERY

Taylor Abou & Steven Montgomery

March 2, 2023 7lbs 7oz

HAILSTORM LEONE WOLF

MARIE NASH

Taylor Nash & Grace Ann Nash

March 4, 2023 6lbs 8oz

Condolences

CHARLOTTE (IRMA) WILLIAMS

November 1930 – January 2023

FREIDA DENNIS

December 1955 – December 2022

ROBERT BROWN

March 1957 – December 2022

DEBRA (CARPENTIER) WALLACE

December 1955 – December 2022

MAXIM (MAX) CARPENTIER

April 1949 — January 2023

DUSTIN VANCE

December 1983 — January 2023

RICHARD (DICK) GLEASON

March 1935 – December 2022

New Staff Stacey Hanik

As a child, I was fortunate enough to experience two different worlds – the bright lights of the city and the beauty of our traditional territory. During the school year, I lived beside the ocean in White Rock, and was able to excel, academically, at one of the top high schools in Canada. During the summer months, I lived in a tent frame on the Day’s Ranch. I ran in the fields with my cousins, pulled nets, and jarred fish with my mom, rode the trails of our hunting areas with my grandfather and uncles, and learned how to cook and clean with my mother, grandmother, and aunties. There is no question that my female lineage is responsible for my strength and hard work ethic.

Academically, I completed my diploma in Events and Convention Management and progressed into the Bachelor of Tourism Management program at Thompson Rivers University.

Stacey Hanik Education & Training Director

It is with great joy and enthusiasm that I begin my new journey as the Education & Training Director for the Tahltan Central Government (TCG).

I am the eldest child of Janice Anderson and Norman Day and the eldest grandchild of Doreen Dennis and Fletcher Day. My Tahltan name is Honāzē, meaning chipmunk. The late John Carlick gave me this name when I was a baby because I had chubby cheeks and would chew my food in my cheeks, for long periods of time. Later in life, I was told the name suited me well, as I am always planning and stashing items away –just like a chipmunk.

In recent years, I have been working at the Red Chris Mine. I began as the Travel Coordinator, moved to Site Support Coordinator and then transitioned to join the underground team of Barminco. I have enjoyed my time at the mine site and hope to bring my experience and knowledge to this department.

When I close my eyes and think of my happy place, I see the Day’s Ranch from the top of the hill, I see the vinyl tablecloth at the table of our Camp Island cabin, and I smell the campfire smoke while I hear the laughter of my cousins and uncles. I am thrilled to be back in my territory.

My goal is to continue in Cassandra’s footsteps in making this program strong and inclusive. My late Auntie Wenda was always a strong advocate for education. She never stopped encouraging the children of the Tahltan Nation and I hope to make her proud and carry on her legacy.

I strive for greatness in everything I do. I love people and I love to watch them prosper and excel. There is something truly special and meaningful about being a part of another’s success. I plan to bring that love, dedication, and passion to the Tahltan Nation and am honoured to be a part of the TCG team.

New Staff Dwayne Tashoots

My name is Dwayne Tashoots and I am honoured to be joining the Tahltan Central Government (TCG), Wildlife Department as a Predator Management Technician. I belong to the Wolf Clan from the Tahltan Nation, where I reside in the community of Iskut along with my spouse/ hunting partner, Kelly Quock, and our son, Duane Jr. We take tremendous pride in our hunting, trapping, and fishing skills, and utilizing the land’s resources for our traditional harvests.

Obtaining my hunting outdoor knowledge from a great list of hunters, notably Frank Tashoots, Charlie Abou (my grandparents), and my dad, James Abou, has been nothing less than spectacular. Being able to pass it on along with countless stories has continually been a wonderful experience. I believe my skillset can contribute to the successful day-to-day running of the TCG Wildlife Department.

Dwayne Tashoots Predator Management Technician

I strongly agree in managing our wildlife’s ecosystems for our future generations. Having balance in our ecosystem will not only keep our wildlife thriving but ensure the wolves, bears, and many other predators are not the reason moose and caribou populations eventually diminish. We have seen the White-tailed deer drastically decline over the years and have noted that the Stone’s sheep population has decreased as well.

So, working together is a must to keep our territory thriving with an abundance of wild game. I would like my son, my grandkids, and many generations to follow to experience all that Tahltan Territory has to offer as I have done, along with tens of thousands before me.

Mēduh

New Staff Clayton Perry

Hello, my name is Clayton Perry. I have been spending summers in Dease Lake for the past ten years and moved here as a full-time resident in 2018. I have always loved the scenery on our trips to Dease Lake and enjoy spending time outdoors with my family, exploring the territory and working on broken machine treasures.

I am excited about working in the archives as there is so much I can learn about Tahltan culture and heritage as well as traditional practices. I would like to learn more about the history of the Tahltans and share it with future generations to come.

Clayton Perry Assistant Archivist

Tahltan Central Government Announces Creation of New Health Department

Press Release | TAHLTAN CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – WINTER NEWSLETTER 2023

Published December 27, 2022

DEASE LAKE, BRITISH COLUMBIA, December 27, 2022 – The Tahltan Central Government (TCG) is excited to announce the creation of a new department. The TCG Health Department will be forged under the direction of Cassandra Puckett, who will be leading as Department Director. The Health Department will support interacting health programs that serve Tahltan community members, the complete scope of which is still to be determined. Cassandra will be working closely with the Tahltan and Iskut Bands to ensure that priorities of communities in territory, in terms of the health and wellness challenges, barriers, and gaps, are included in the planning and development of the department.

British Columbia’s Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples’ (DRIPA’s) overarching purpose is to implement the objectives of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP). UNDRIP states that Indigenous peoples have the right to the improvement of their health, among other things, and equal rights to the enjoyment of the highest attainable standard of physical and mental health. The remoteness of Tahltan Territory’s communities has resulted in a lack of services in territory that are readily available to those in living in urban areas. The TCG Health Department will not only work to rectify this but will do so using a Tahltan-led approach, developing services based on the specific needs of the Tahltan people.

“The creation of the TCG Health Department is something to celebrate and something of which I am particularly proud,” said Chad Norman Day, President of the TCG. “We have long been committed to focusing on improving our homeland by bringing a better way of life for all Tahltans. The TCG is working diligently through this initiative to help better the physical, mental, and spiritual wellness of our people. All of the work we do is not only for Tahltans now, but for our future generations. In establishing the Health Department alongside our other departments, we are caring for our lands and resources, but also for the overall wellbeing of Tahltans, which is absolutely essential if we want them to benefit from the services offered by our other departments. We can provide members with extra skills and training, financial and employment opportunities, and more, but without their health, they can never reach their full potential.”

Tahltan Central Government Strongly Asserts Tahltan Territory Borders, Opposes Neighbouring Nations Claims

DEASE LAKE, BRITISH COLUMBIA, February 14, 2023

– The Tahltan Central Government (TCG) is actively managing recent and ongoing actions by neighbouring Nations that relate to lands within the boundaries of Tahltan Territory, including recent announcements by the Taku River Tlingit First Nation (TRTFN) and the Treaty 8 Nations.

Most recently, on January 20, 2023, TRTFN announced the Taku River Tlingit First Nation Declaration of the T’aku Tlatsini Indigenous Protected and Conserved Area (Taku IPCA). TRTFN included the Sheslay area within Tahltan Territory in its Taku IPCA. TRTFN did not seek or obtain Tahltan consent prior to including any of Tahltan Territory in the Taku IPCA, and it appears that TRTFN did not have the support of the Province of British Columbia (Province) prior to declaring the

Taku IPCA.1 The TCG denies that TRTFN has the right to govern Sheslay or any other area of Tahltan Territory and opposes this type of unilateral assertion of governance rights by any Nation within Tahltan Territory.

The TCG is committed to taking every step necessary to assert Tahltan jurisdiction and protect Tahltan Territory from encroachment by third parties and we are in active communication with the Province regarding these issues. At the same time, the TCG recognizes the value in maintaining positive relationships with our neighbouring Nations, to the extent possible. Accordingly, the TCG will be working to engage in respectful dialogue with our neighbours while diligently ensuring that Tahltan rights, lands, and resources are safeguarded.

TNDC partnering with TCG, Province and Industry to create Tahltan Nation Heavy Equipment Operator Training Program

Dease Lake, BC, January 24, 2023 -- Tahltan Nation Development Corporation (TNDC) has partnered with the Tahltan Central Government (TCG), Government of British Columbia, and several industry partners (Centre of Training Excellence in Mining, Coast Mountain College, Contact North BC, Finning, Mining in HR Council, Newcrest Mining Limited, and SkilledTradesBC), to create a pilot Tahltan Nation Heavy Equipment Operator Training Program.

The Tahltan Heavy Equipment Operator (HEO) Training Program will address an industry problem, by combining equipment training in Tahltan Territory with on-the-job practical operating work experience and camp life exposure. In addition to building capacity within the Tahltan community, the training program will integrate Tahltan regional and traditional knowledge on local projects while tapping into senior experienced Tahltan operators.

The program will align with SkilledTradesBC (formerly Industry Training Authority) learning outcomes as well as the Mining in HR Council common competencies. It will provide a mixture of workplace safety training, underground miner fundamentals, HEO simulator training, and at least 140 hours of hands-on training, focussed on a progressive approach to learning heavy equipment operation over three years. Additional pieces of equipment will be added each year.

Participants will receive four weeks of hands-on Heavy Equipment Operator training, followed by job placement as an apprentice with an industry partner in Tahltan Territory, focussing on the relevant pieces of equipment they learn each year, to build up their hours that season, and complete their SkilledTradesBC certification. At the outset, the program will also support Tahltans in acquiring their Class 4, 5 and 7 drivers’ licences in territory, and provide a one-week camp life orientation at the Red Chris Mine. Travel, accommodation, meals, and a training stipend will be provided during training while full apprenticeship wages will be paid during the job placement.

During the training and work season, participants will also receive support from senior Tahltan Heavy Equipment Operators, who will be supported in challenging the SkilledTradesBC HEO Certification, as well as building skills as mentors through additional ongoing training with the Mining in HR Council and Coast Mountain College.

Tahltan Territory, located in remote northwest British Columbia, is home to approximately 70% of B.C.’s resource rich Golden Triangle, including two of the 10 operating metal mines in BC (Red Chris and Brucejack). Tahltan Territory is also home to approximately 14% of Canada’s exploration expenditures, approximately 3% of the global exploration budget, approximately $295 million of

mineral exploration expenditure, and $1.05 billion of total projected mining production values. Demand for skilled, experienced and certified HEOs will continue to grow in the decades to come.

“Despite global financial headwinds, there is and will continue to be, a significant need for experienced Heavy Equipment Operators with TNDC and in Tahltan Territory. TNDC frequently receives resumes from new Tahltan operators who have spent several weeks outside territory attending a Heavy Equipment Operator Program, returning without complete qualifications to work on an active mine site and operate heavy equipment. TNDC saw an opportunity to tap into new funding opportunities and partner with TCG, the Province and industry to create a program that is more cost effective and Tahltan oriented, and that will provide the certification skills and training TNDC and our industry partners need. The fruition of this program is testament to partnership and collaboration, and a win-win-win for everyone involved,” said Colleen Cashin, VP People & Corporate Culture, Tahltan Nation Development Corporation.

“I am thrilled at the opportunity this course will create for Tahltans wishing to pursue a career that allows them to be trained in Tahltan Territory and encourages them to use their skills in our communities after completion,” said Chad Norman Day, President of the Tahltan Central Government. “The Tahltan Central Government strives to support our members in finding careers and employment opportunities, including through the use of OnTrack, our Tahltan exclusive job site. I have repeatedly emphasized that for there to be world-class mining in our territory, there is a need for world-class wildlife stewardship, but in addition to this, world-class mining cannot exist in Tahltan Territory without Tahltans being included in the workforce. We support breaking down any barriers that have traditionally prevented our members from accessing employment opportunities. Tahltans must benefit from preferential hire by those operating in our territory. I am excited to see the doors that this program and partnership will open for Tahltans.”

“This pilot program will help people develop the skills and experience they need to become certified Heavy Equipment Operators,” said Selina Robinson, Minister of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills. “Skills training, such as the Tahltan Nation Heavy Equipment Operator Training program, is essential to addressing the demand for skilled trades in the area.”

Tahltan Dancers Program

BACKGROUND

Guided by the structure of previous dance groups, the Tahltan Central Government (TCG) has established the Tahltan Dancers Program for Tahltan Youth. Spearheaded by TCG employees Dhakāle Hayle Gallup, Sandra Marion, and Christina Callbreath, this program consists of Youth that attend the Dease Lake School from Grades 8 to 12. It offers Youth the opportunity to continue to learn traditional songs, dances, cultural protocols, language, and public speaking skills. Once the Youth have completed their regalia and have gotten comfortable with performing, they will have the opportunity to perform for our Nation in and out of Tahltan Territory. The Youth are excited about the possibility of travelling to perform. We will do our best to get them ready.

The Dease Lake Youth dancers are a contemporary dance group. As a result, during their performances the audience may see various colours of regalia. The Youth have chosen colours that are representative of who they are as individuals. It was their wish to express themselves in this way.

THE PROGRAM

The dance group meets twice a week, Mondays and Wednesdays from 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm. On Mondays, we focus on regalia making. On Wednesdays, we focus on learning introductions, singing, and dancing. We are honoured to have the support of many talented individuals from our Nation, especially regarding regalia making. Christine Creyke, Carmen Dennis, and Una Ann have truly made this program possible by sharing their knowledge with us and supporting the Youth in the making of their regalia. We want the Youth to feel proud of being Didene Ke.

This winter, we are scheduled to learn from Tahltan artist, Huey Carlick, in the making of drums. We are honoured that Huey would share his knowledge with us and that he would support our dance group in this way. Four Youth dancers successfully made a drum and are so very proud of their work.

Tahltan Dancers

Our logo was designed by Tahltan artist, Christina Callbreath, who also acts as one of the Tahltan dance group leaders. This logo will be featured on the new Tahltan dancers’ t-shirts and other swag.

“I am so excited to get these Youth going for our Tahltan Dancers Program. It has been a long time coming and we have had our fair share of hurdles to get through, but that is all part of the beginning steps. I have not had the opportunity to practice with the dance group yet, but I do plan on getting more involved and our team has also discussed the opportunity to open up to the communities of Dease Lake, Iskut, and Telegraph Creek, as well as our urban communities. We were in a planning phase for the cultural liaisons, and we should be putting the announcements out asking for support in planning dancing in each community shortly. I am looking forward to seeing our people coming together at large events and dancing together again.”

Sandra Marion Culture & Heritage Director

“I am honoured to be facilitating the Tahltan Dancers Program alongside my colleagues. I am responsible for teaching the Youth how to introduce themselves in Tāłtān, how to introduce and sing the songs, and I am also responsible for choreography. Singing is one of my gifts and I am happy to share that with the Youth. When I was a teenager, I was a Tahltan dancer. My mother forced me to join and for that, I will forever be thankful to her. Being a part of dance group as a Youth was instrumental in my life. It instilled in me a healthy Tahltan pride and a connection to our culture. I hope to instill healthy values of responsibility, community, and shining brightly into the Youth. Working with them is a responsibility that I do not take lightly. I am committed to this program and look forward to witnessing their growth.”

Dhakāle Hayle Gallup Tatl’ah Language Programming Coordinator

“I am very proud of the Youth who have decided to join in the program. The Tahltan Dancers Program is a great place to learn about your cultural identity and the role you play within the community. Our Youth are showing tremendous commitment by creating their regalia and putting in the work to learn the songs. I look forward to performances in Dease Lake and beyond.“

Christina Callbreath Dease Lake Community Director

SUPPORT

This program could not have been possible without the support of many individuals. For the past two years, we have been gathering knowledge and learning from those who came before us. We are always ready to hear from and learn from anyone who is willing to teach us. If you have knowledge that you would like to contribute to the group, we would be honoured to listen.

Some key supporters have been:

Ȗ David Rattray – mentorship for leaders

Ȗ Lena Sharko – mentorship for leaders

Ȗ Carmen Dennis – regalia making and song/dance support

Ȗ Christine Creyke – regalia making support

Ȗ Una Ann – regalia making support

Ȗ Huey Carlick – drum making support

Ȗ Grace Williams – Elder mentoring dancers and leaders

Ȗ Jessica Saults (Nuu-chah-nulth Elder & Answer Drum Group member) –gifting of gratitude song

Ȗ Kim Rowe – support with materials

Ȗ Sandra Marion (Culture & Heritage Director) – donation of sewing materials

Ȗ Dease Lake School –announcements and opening the gym for the dancers

Ȗ Lance Nagwan (Wildlife Director) –donation of wolf skins

Ȗ Carmen McPhee – (Tahltan Band Chief) – mentorship for leaders and dancers

Ȗ Loretta Sort – mentorship for leaders and dancers

Ȗ Michelle Blackburn – mentorship for leaders and dancers

Ȗ Tsemā – regalia support, and mentorship for leaders and dancers

Ȗ Verna Vance – singing/dancing support

2023 AME Roundup Youth Participants

The Tahltan Central Government (TCG) once again hosted a successful Youth trip to Vancouver to attend the Association for Mineral Exploration (AME) Roundup in late January. Ten Youth delegates joined us this year for the chance to learn about mineral exploration, the mining industry, Leadership, and a variety of potential career paths all while connecting with other young Tahltans.

The trip began with a meet and greet dinner hosted by TCG’s Events Manager, Roxanne Ball, where Youth were given a chance to get to know one another before diving into an eventful few days. As with previous years, the itinerary included a day at the AME Roundup attending meetings with Leadership from TCG, and the Tahltan and Iskut Bands, and industry partners, who shared project updates and answered questions. They were also given the chance to walk the vast trade show floor and speak to representatives from mining and mineral exploration companies.

Above: Youth hosting the reception at Tahltan Night.

Youth also listened to informative presentations from TCG’s Education & Training, and Employment & Business Departments, NorthPac Forestry, and the Tahltan Nation Development Corporation (TNDC). The delegates were then fortunate to watch the Vancouver Canucks’ unfortunate loss to the Chicago Blackhawks, with tickets generously sponsored by Kutcho Copper Corp. We extend a heartfelt thank you to Kutcho for their kind gesture.

Our first ever Tahltan Night, organized by the TCG and TNDC, was a huge success largely in part due to the immense support from the Youth. They brought tremendously positive energy as they worked tirelessly and professionally to set up the event, check in hundreds of guests, and assist TCG and TNDC staff as needed. Thank you all for participating without any hesitation and helping to make the event a great success.

As with previous year, the trip included a museum visit. This year they went to the Museum of Anthropology (MOA) at the University of British Columbia (UBC). Museum staff generously offered their time and provided snacks as the Youth were treated to a behind the scenes tour where they viewed Tahltan artifacts and belongings up close and had the chance to learn about museum practices and related career paths. Afterwards, they continued exploring the UBC campus and enjoyed presentations from different faculties who shed light on many future career opportunities.

Mēduh to everyone who attended and made this event possible.

Right: Youth visits to the Museum of Anthropology and Mining Lab with Professor Marek Pawlik at UBC.

“The experience was great, I learned a lot.”

I’m very interested in working for my Nation; like with TCG for example.

Roundup for me was very interesting and informative. Getting the opportunity to learn what happens behind the scenes was really cool. Highlight was meeting lots of new people and the hockey game.

I grew up in Dease Lake. It will forever be a home to me.

CAGNEY ETZERZA Dease Lake, BC

CHANEL WOODS Witset, BC

JESSE CARLICK North Vancouver, BC

GAVIN DAY Smithers, BC

I really enjoyed myself. This was a very educational and informative experience. Thank you, Roxanne, and TCG.

Q: Have you ever visited, lived, or spent time in Tahltan Territory? If so, please describe.

A: No place like home.

The first day was awesome because of how TCG fought for our land to not make too much change.

My highlight was being able to help with Tahltan Night and to network with companies.

JUSTICE NEHASS Dease Lake, BC

KEELAN FROCKLAGE Dease Lake/Smithers, BC

KIANNA QUIGLEY Dease Lake, BC

MEGAN ROUSSEAU Dease Lake, BC

The highlight of the week was the museum. I have seen the most beautiful artifacts in the world, totem poles, and hearing old stories always makes me think about life.

Q: What would you rate your overall experience on a scale from 1-10, one being terrible and ten being awesome?

A: 100/10!

SHEYLYNN LALIBERTE Fort St John, BC

TAYLOR NASH Calgary, AB

Above: Youth announce the raffle winners at Tahltan Night.

Above: Youth at Roundup, a Canucks game, and on a Gem Collections Tour with Professor Philippe Tortell at UBC.

2023 AME Roundup Tahltan Night

On Wednesday, January 25, 2023, the Tahltan Central Government (TCG) hosted Tahltan Night at the Fairmont Waterfront. The event included Leaders and representatives from the TCG, Tahltan Band Council, Iskut Band Council, Tahltan Nation Development Corporation, Tahltan Youth and our valued partners in the mining industry and natural resource sectors. We also welcomed officials from the Province of British Columbia. We are working together to strengthen our Nation in the spirit of sovereignty, reconciliation and shared decisionmaking. The event featured Tahltan cultural displays in partnership with our friends at the Museum of Anthropology as well as some great music from John Nole and Richard (Rocky) Jackson.

Tahltan OnTrack

The

Directors’ Reports

Culture & Heritage Director Report

One initiative to watch for will be a call out for knowledge holders to join our Culture & Heritage Committee. We will be looking for Elders, adults, and Youth; the only requirement is to hold knowledge about our cultural practices at home and on the land, including ceremonies that we have held in the past, and medicines we have utilized all our lives. This group will help develop our Cultural Liaison’s Program curriculum. They will also be assisting me with drafting a heritage policy to build out our practices, and to highlight policy opportunities that we can draft and implement through a cultural monitor program we would like to bring into archaeological monitoring.

Sandra Marion Culture & Heritage Director

Dẕenēs hoti’e. Łani hosdlī. We have been keeping busy here in the north. We had pretty cold weather over the holidays, but we managed to spend some time with family.

Now that we have Mariko Waite set up in the department as our Culture & Heritage Coordinator, we will be moving towards having her make some phone calls in the late winter and spring to knowledge holders and Elders, to see if they are interested in participating in the On the Land Elder Interviews come spring, summer, and fall in 2023. Mariko will be my main contact with the Elders, so she will often be the one to call or email you for events, meetings, workshops, and other opportunities.

We have been doing a lot of strategic planning in the background, which I look forward to sharing with membership in the future. One key piece will be scheduling Tahltan-specific archaeology training, tentatively set for the end of May and first week of June. We will be scheduling it at home in the territory, with hands-on training right in our own backyard. We are so excited and will continue to develop the schedule before releasing the information to participants. It is important that cultural/archaeology monitors stem from the Tahltan Central Government (TCG) as a monitor/regulator so that the individuals have the autonomy to alert the Lands Director and/or myself when archaeological work out on the land is not being done according to our standards.

Right: Carl Carpentier and David Rattray chair the Elders Gathering at the Dease Lake Community Hall.

NOVEMBER ELDERS’ GATHERING –MARIKO WAITE

One of my favourite parts of my job is getting to know the Elders during different events. I was happy to help plan and support an Elders’ gathering in November with a wonderful Tahltan Central Government (TCG) team, including Ombrielle Neria, Communications & External Relations Director, Roxanne Ball, Events Manager, and Lesli Louie. In preparation for the meeting, I spoke with many Elders whom I was able to contact by phone. Many were unable to make it to the meeting, but I had interesting conversations with them. I hope I can eventually meet everyone in person but for now I am enjoying even the short connections we make over the phone.

On my arrival to Dease Lake I went straight to the community hall for the welcoming dinner. I was very happy to see the hall was full of people, and the room was buzzing with the sound of everyone greeting each other. I got to meet some of the Elders I had spoken with on the phone, and I chatted with the ones I met at the Place Names meetings in October. The dinner was a wonderful introduction to a full weekend of meetings. Mealtimes ended up being one of my favourite parts of the weekend, as that was when everyone visited and caught up on what everyone else has been doing. For some Elders from out of territory, this was the first

Elders meeting they had ever attended, and meal breaks were a great time to socialize, reconnect and meet new people.

A lot of topics were covered over the next few days, and it was nice to see how passionate the Elders are about all the topics discussed. Elders told stories of the past and their hopes for the future. As serious as some of the discussions were, there was still a lot of laughter and humour throughout the weekend. David Rattray and Carl Carpentier did a wonderful job chairing the meeting, making sure everyone had the opportunity to speak, and sharing their opinions. I look forward to meeting more Elders and associates while supporting these important Elders’ gatherings.

Above: Elders Gathering at the Dease Lake Community Hall.

Wildlife Director Report

Predator Management Technicians and teaming up to ultimately keep more animals on the landscape. Trial and error plays a huge part in everyone’s success as a trapper; learning from each missed opportunity, adapting minute adjustments promotes skills that ultimately lead to more animals caught.

Lance Nagwan

Wildlife

Director

As the winter months grace our presence in this beautiful country, we have been vigilantly pursuing predators through our communitybased trapping efforts. This winter, The Tahltan Central Government (TCG) has hired additional Predator Management Technicians in the communities of Telegraph creek, Dease Lake, and Iskut to further expand our reach into the back country.

Accomplishing the task of alleviating predation pressure on ungulate populations requires staff to travel long distances through adverse environmental conditions. This winter, the lack of snow and moderate weather conditions caused some delays, as we could not reach areas that require travelling on frozen waterways. Adherence to the strict system needed to avoid detection when targeting wolf packs, the experience of the Tahltan Guardians is once again proving invaluable. Assisting the newly hired

The TCG Predator Management Plan is currently in the third year of operation. We operate utilizing ground-based reconnaissance to formalize an adaptive overarching predator removal strategy. Information that includes but is not limited to deployment of Global Positioning System (GPS) collars to track wolf pack movements, listening to local community members’ reports on wolf sightings, and community harvest that contribute additional site-specific observations of wolf locations and movements on the landscape. Working throughout all weather conditions gives a perspective of the animals’ activity that cannot be gathered through scientific data alone. Always keeping a close eye out for mortality kill sites, we begin to develop a sense of animal behaviour patterns, preferred prey, direction of travel, and number of animals that are being targeted. The data is proving to be instrumental in the development of a recovery strategy that will

Right: Wolf caught by Guardian Clements Brace.

Photo by Clements.

be implemented for Mount Edziza Boreal Caribou population that is currently estimated at twenty-five animals. The TCG is diligently collecting data for an aerial density reduction of predators that requires the aid of helicopter, and/or fixed wing aircrafts during critical calving season. This goal is vital to regrow the population of caribou to a historically healthy and harvestable number of animals.

TCG’s Wildlife Department has also partnered with University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC) master’s student, Oliver Holt, for his Isotopic Analysis Project. Wolf hair samples have been collected and submitted from throughout the territory, sent to a lab for microscopic isotope analysis to determine a signature of the diet of specific wolf packs in Tahltan Territory.

We are confronted with many projects and commitments that require our attention throughout the winter, constantly be pulled away from our focused task at hand. The amount of time spent skinning the hides that is used for Tahltan language and culture goes above and beyond what is required from any government agency tasked in dispatching animals. I commend the Tahltan people, local community support, and most importantly my staff for the work you are doing. Every wolf removed from the landscape is a moose or caribou that is saved for the future generations to enjoy.

Mēduh

Above: Guardian Richard Louie and Predator Technician Dwayne Tashoots head to one of their trap sites up Klappan.

Fisheries Director Report

gift of our traditional ancestral knowledge is the most powerful tool that we have when we are entrusted with the stewardship of our resources and our land.

In the upcoming days, the Tahltan Central Government (TCG) Fisheries Department will be embarking on a journey to work closely with the Tahltan Elders from the Language Working Group to develop a more comprehensive understanding of the Tahltan oral stories, terms, and language used in relation to our river systems and all fish species harvested within Tahltan Territory. We will work collaboratively with the Elders, and the Language and Education & Training Departments to develop visual aids for the school project and incorporate the Tāłtān language into these visual tools. Fisheries Manager, Kerry Carlick, our Aquatic Protections Officer, Naia Newton, and I are exited and looking forward to this opportunity to spend time with our Elders, to learn, be empowered and inspired, and to become confident in our ability to speak our language in this context. It will also help us to improve on how we integrate this into the sciencebased classroom activities we participate in with the students in the schools. This is going to be an amazing and rewarding adventure.

The English translation of how January is referred to in our Tāłtān language is “the month when rabbits chew bark”, “middle of winter month”, and/or “sun getting high month”. I am always humbled and inspired when I read this type of traditional knowledge. Our ancestors were so tuned in to the land, the animals, and the changing seasons. With this knowledge, they had the ability to predict where and when to be on the land in any given season to best harvest the different plants, fish, and animals that have sustained us for thousands of years. As a Tahltan in modern times, I feel that this

Our TCG Fisheries Department staff are currently busy drafting written and financial reports from the 2022 field season. We are working our way through the post season reviews and our annual winter meeting schedule and preliminary discussions regarding upcoming 2023 planning and logistics will be commencing soon. Funding proposals for additional field projects for the new field season have been submitted and are in review.

Cheri Frocklage Fisheries Director

As we enter into the new year, I can say that 2022 was a difficult year, but I learned a lot about myself, and I am grateful for that. I am going to make this year a year of finding, of fulfillment, of joy, of peace and of purpose.

The Transboundary Technical Committee has completed the 2023 Chinook (King salmon) forecasts. The forecasts are as follows:

• The Taku River terminal run forecast is 23,000 large fish (SE = 4,600), within the escapement goal range of 19,000 to 36,000. In Taku River, a strong run of four-year-old Chinook salmon in 2022 representing the 2018 brood year drives an improved forecast for 2023.

• The Stikine River terminal run forecast is 11,700 large fish (SE = 3,200), below the escapement goal range of 14,000 to 28,000. There will be no directed Chinook fishery again in the upcoming 2023 fishing season.

• There is no preliminary run estimate available for Stikine River Sockeye stocks at this time, but they will be available following the February Pacific Salmon Commission meeting.

Left: Lesli Louie scribes during a knowledge gathering session with Elders in Dease Lake.

Lands Director Report

Jade Placer Interim Measures: The Lands Department submitted the Tahltan Placer/Jade Collaborative Working Group recommendations and Traditional Land Use and Occupancy Study to the Province of BC in late December 2022. These recommendations focus on improvements with respect to information sharing, revenue sharing, reclamation directives, access, restriction, compliance, and legacy site impacts.

The Lands Department intends to prioritize the advancement of placer / jade legislative and regulatory reform over the first half of 2023.

Connor Pritty Lands Director

GOVERNMENT TO GOVERNMENT

Eskay Creek Section 7 Agreement: The Lands Department is continuing with the successful implementation of the provincial consent-based decision-making agreement which acknowledges Tahltan Nation’s decision-making authority with respect to the Eskay Creek Revitalization project.

Currently, the Lands Department is progressing through process planning of the Environmental Assessment Process for the Eskay Creek Project. During the process planning phase there is a requirement for the Tahltan Central government (TCG) to host a community engagement session to advise and inform members of the community on the progression of the project’s assessment plan process order and application information requirements. This session occurred in territory on February 15 (Telegraph Creek), February 16 (Iskut), and February 17 (Dease Lake).

The Lands Department looks forward to continuing to work closely with Tahltan members to ensure adequate scoping of Tahltan interests, values, and concerns into the Environmental Assessment Process for the Eskay Creek Revitalization Project.

Red Chris Environmental Assessment Amendment Negotiations: The Lands Department has been progressing through negotiations of a consentbased decision-making agreement with respect to the Red Chris Block Cave Environment Assessment amendment pending in the first half of 2023. Currently, the provincial authorities are reviewing the TCG Legal Counsel’s recommendations and directions provided, and the aim is to have a draft agreement materialized in the coming months. The Lands Department intends to schedule community engagement in the near future with respect to the Red Chris project to inform members and Leadership on the consent negotiation process.

Shared Prosperity Agreement (SPA) Interim

Measures: In 2020, the TCG signed the Shared Prosperity Agreement for the purpose of negotiating foundational strategies with respect to land stewardship and protection opportunities. Under this agreement, interim protection measures specific to highly sensitive cultural areas have been continually advancing. The Lands Department has informed the Province that it will be conducting in-depth engagement over 2023 with community members and elected Chief and Council Leadership to support further advancement and finalization of these measures.

MAJOR PROJECTS

Eskay Creek: In November 2022, the Eskay Creek Revitalization Project officially entered into the Process Planning phase of the provincial Environmental Assessment Act. During this process the Lands Department and the Tahltan Heritage Resources and Environmental Assessment Team (THREAT) has been working extensively on the review and development of the environmental assessment’s Process Order, Assessment Plan, and

Application Information Requirements (AIR). The Lands Department has engagement in Dease Lake, Telegraph Creek, and Iskut scheduled for February 15, 16, and 17 to engage members on the development of these documents during the process planning phase to support inclusion of Tahltan values, concerns, and comments before they are formally finalized.

Red Chris: The Lands Department and THREAT are currently reviewing an environmental assessment certificate amendment with respect to an intended camp expansion from 800 to 1,200 workers at the Red Chris Mine. The focus of this review is scoped to understand social economic impacts on Tahltan employees alongside community members with the additional occupancy and transportation increases proposed under this amendment. THREAT is currently completing a five-year mine plan and reclamation review and has recently secured with the Province an increase to the Red Chris Mine reclamation bond from 13 million to 134 million dollars. The Lands Department intends to schedule two engagement sessions in territory in relation to the Red Chris tailings facility alongside the block cave Environmental Assessment Process that is pending in the first half of 2023.

Brucejack: The Lands Department is continuing to progress through multiple permitting and Environmental/Mines Act permit amendments. Most recently, the Lands Department submitted our comments with respect to the production increase application that Brucejack has proposed for the mine. This production increase relates to further advancing or processing through the mine’s underground operations. To support the Lands Department’s review of mine operations and permit conditions we have recently completed a traditional land use occupancy study to inform further on cultural and traditional practices of both historical and current uses in the region.

Galore Creek: The Lands Department and THREAT continue to progress through technical workshops to advance project component understanding and baseline data collection that support the development of tailings impoundment designs, regulatory processes, and overall wildlife, fisheries, and water quality design. The Galore Creek Project intends to re-enter the Environmental Assessment Process in the third quarter of 2023 for the purpose of updating their Environmental Assessment Certificate to incorporate changes to the project’s footprint and mine’s design. The Lands Department is working with Galore Creek

to coordinate community engagement sessions in territory for April 2023.

Kutcho: The Lands Department is currently working through the development of a draft technical agreement which will support Tahltan engagement, technical studies, baseline data collection, and monitoring and compliance with respect to the project. The Lands Department continues to participate in monthly project update meetings to review the projects intended regulatory plan.

Giga Metals: The Lands Department is continuing to work with the team at Giga Metals to understand the finalization of the project’s pre-feasibility study that will be finalized in mid 2023. The critical components of the project are the required development of a transmission line and establishment and upgrade to the Boulder Trail Road region. To support understanding from the Lands Department and THREAT, we have recently finalized a funding agreement to support the development of a traditional land use occupancy study that will inform the Tahltan Central Government’s Lands Department’s Tahltan Environmental Assessment Process should the project proceed to a federal and provincial review.

Coeur Silvertip: The Lands Department has been actively participating in the Environmental Technical Working Group (ETWG) to review and provide direction into the procedural process that Coeur is undertaking to exit the current care and maintenance phase of the project. The Lands Department has recently renegotiated a capacity funding agreement with the Province of BC for participating in the mine’s review committee with respect to the Coeur Silvertip project. Through discussions with Coeur, the Lands Department is anticipating that community engagement in the territory will occur in the first half of 2023.

AME ROUNDUP 2023

The TCG in combination with the Tahltan and Iskut Bands’ Leadership recently participated in the Association for Mineral Exploration (AME) 2023 Roundup event in Vancouver, BC. During this process the TCG Lands Department and Communications & External Relations Department collaboratively supported Leadership in the engagement of thirty project and exploration activities updates within Tahltan Territory.

Language Director Report

TĀŁTĀN SIGNAGE

On other fronts, we continued to create and share digital language resources on the Language Department Facebook page. This is a great platform to connect to language and build strong foundations for learning Tāłtān. We encourage everyone to like our page and share these creative resources with others.

Led by the Communications & External Relations Department, the Language Department, along with other associated Tahltan Central Government (TCG) departments, is collaborating with the Tahltan Band and Iskut Band, and other key stakeholders through the assembly of a Tāłtān Signage Working Group to develop a multi-year strategic plan with a phased approach for signage in the territory.

Pamela Labonte Language Director

Winter for the Language Department is a delightfully productive time when everyone comes back together after the holiday break feeling recharged, rejuvenated, and energized for the new year upon us. This season for our team consisted of continued language program planning, preparation, and implementation in all regards. We continued to dig in and cultivate our strong foundations through the continuation of the work we have going on with important initiatives such as the Tāłtān Zoom lessons, our newly launched Mentor-Apprentice Program (MAP) from the fall, and of course, the Tāłtān Dictionary Project. Those working on the dictionary behind the scenes continue to process the language collected from Phase Three with the support of the Language Conservancy (TLC) as we prepare for Phase Four with another round of language documentation towards the latter part of the season. New recordings collected from this next phase will fill in gaps identified from Phase Three, expand the dictionary database to ensure both dialects are represented, and create a more robust dictionary for all users. If all goes to plan, we will be prepared to have the Tāłtān Dictionary ready for internal beta testing towards the beginning of summer.

The Language Department will be responsible for ensuring correct language for signage where necessary and appropriate. To date, we have held working group meetings that included internal and external stakeholders (TCG and the Bands’ representatives) to receive input on the proposed strategic plan draft, develop a project charter for the initiative, and move forward collaboratively as a group for signage in the territory. I am pleased to report we have also held several meetings with the relevant provincial government ministries to move the phased plan forward.

TĀŁTĀN NAMING POLICY

We are working towards developing a TCG Tāłtān Naming Policy in conjunction with the Communications & External Relations Department. The policy will standardize and formalize the process for requests from both external sources (such as natural resource project proponents) and internal sources (such as TCG departments) to determine and designate Tāłtān names to projects, initiatives, programs, conservancies, or any other requests for Tāłtān names that have a connection to Tahltan at the Nation level.

The goals of this policy are to:

• Streamline and standardize the process through which Tāłtān names are determined and designated;

• Ensure the name determination process is transparent;

• Support the collective input of Tāłtān language keepers, Elders, and knowledge holders on Tāłtān name determinations;

• Provide information to all TCG departments, members, and other interested parties about name requests and selection process; and

• Ensure that any Tāłtān names selected are representative of and meaningful to the Tahltan Nation as a whole.

MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING WITH SD87

The Language Department is also working towards establishing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with School District 87 (SD87) that will establish a formal relationship with the school district by outlining what that a collaborative partnership entails to ensure strong foundations in this space to guide all future work. The MOU is being crafted in collaboration with the Communications & External Relations, and Education & Training Departments. We look forward to how this new relationship will forge the path for true reconciliation and reciprocity in this space for Tahltan students within the district. Once implemented, this model can pave the way for future partnerships in similar capacities for not only the Tahltan Nation, but other Nations as well.

LANGUAGE, CULTURE & HERITAGE, AND FISHERIES DEPARTMENT COLLABORATION

Our three departments (Language, Culture & Heritage, and Fisheries) gathered with language keepers and knowledge holders in the territory, all for the love of fish. This was an impromptu get-together born out of an internal request the Language Department received from Cheri Frocklage, Fisheries Director, so she could incorporate Tāłtān names for certain fish found in the territory into her work.

What started as a tiny request evolved into people wanting to come together to share stories, traditions, and language related to the topic of fish. We all know the vital role fishing holds for the Tahltan way of life and culture in the territory (past, present, and future), which makes it so crucial in creating opportunities to bring people together so those who want to share their knowledge can continue passing down traditions through the generations.

A few of the words that came out of this request we would like to share included the terms for Chinook ‘gēs’, Coho, ‘tl’ūga’, and Sockeye salmon ‘dēk’āne’. These words can also be found on the FirstVoices portal, firstvoices.com/home. I believe this collaboration between our departments is just the start of more to come, and we hope to host more gatherings of this nature in the future. While this first one did not have a lot of advanced planning, if anyone is interested in attending future gatherings, please get in touch with either me (Pamela Labonte), Sandra Marion (Culture & Heritage Director), or Cheri Frocklage (Fisheries Director).

Left: Language, Culture & Heritage, and Fisheries Collaboration Gathering.

Tatl’ah Language Programming Coordinator Updates

Sonia Dennis continues to teach our precious language to the Youth at Dease Lake School. Her lessons are hands-on, engaging, and play based. Additionally, Elders are invited to join Sonia as she teaches so that they may model conversation for the students.

Sonia loves working with the students in the language, as she writes “I have been very fortunate to be able to work with the children; to see them come alive in language class is such a wonderful sight to see.” Our language program has also been invited by the school to participate in their monthly Feather Ceremony. This ceremony recognizes and honours students based on characteristics of different animals in our territory. It is a beautiful way to honour the students for their hard work.

Dhakāle Hayle Gallup Tatl’ah

Coordinator

Winter is a time for the inward work; a time to gather one’s plans and begin to breathe life into them. It is also a time to declutter our mental and physical spaces. The Language Centre, otherwise known as Dahdẕāge Hōdeside Kime (we are speaking our language house) has been a busy place to be this winter as we gather/ make plans, organize/declutter our space, run the language program, host the Tahltan Dancers Program, host our Zoom lessons, and utilize the space as our office and meeting place.

I am happy to report that Dahdẕāge Hōdeside Kime continues to evolve and become more organized as we move through the months. Just recently, Gilles Rousseau and his wife Sharon installed cabinets which will serve as our main storage space for all our language programming. The difference something like this makes in a professional space is incredible. Bit by bit, our centre is coming together.

The centre also serves as the designated meeting space for our Tatl’ah Tahltan Dancers Program twice a week (see Tahltan Dancers Program Section for more information). I facilitate the lessons twice a week with

Language Programming

Below: Kitty Brown and Sonia Dennis teaching Language.

the support of the other leaders and sewing support from Christine Creyke and Carmen Dennis. I was a dancer as a teenager, taught by Michelle Blackburn, Colleen Skubovious, Sonia Dennis, and Lena Sharko. Looking back on my life, being a part of Tahltan dancing as a Youth was instrumental in the development of my healthy Tahltan identity. Being able to share my knowledge on singing and dancing in this way fills my spirit.

When the centre is not bustling with programs, Kathy Cottrell and I are busy using it as an office space completing our administrative responsibilities. We also use the space to host meetings such as language team lunches, Language Working Group meetings, Zoom lessons, and Kathy’s Language Nest Advisory Committee meetings.

Kathy has been settling into her role as Nest Manager and has really stepped out of her shell this winter. So far Kathy has built strong relationships within community, especially with our language team Elders. She is flexible, helpful, and always ready to tackle my project ideas. I am beyond grateful for her help. Together, we are searching for a location to house the Language Nest Program, we are participating in training from First Peoples’ Cultural Council on the creation of language nests, and developing a strategic re-opening plan. If you are interested in working in the language nest, we are continuing our search for nest teachers. You can find the job postings with information on the Tahltan Central Government website.

Our language family has grown this year and so have our programs. I continue to be blessed within this role; blessed with incredible people to work with, Elders who share their knowledge, and being able to contribute to our community in meaningful ways.

Mēduh, Dhakāle Hayle Gallup

Above: Dhakāle Hayle Gallup and TCG Communications & External Relations Director Ombrielle Neria participating in cultural activities.

Below: Getting Storage secured at the Language Centre.

Tatl’ah Language Language Nest Manager Updates

an advisory committee of Elders, speakers, and individuals from Dease Lake, Telegraph Creek, and Iskut who work in the language space to assist me in developing a strategic re-opening plan for the nest.

As part of my onboarding and training, I have been participating in the Mentor-Apprentice Program (MAP) and have enjoyed learning with my mentor, Theresa Etzerza. I have so much to learn to be able to carry on a conversation in our language. This year, I will be working with a few more mentors to round out my language learning. I have also been attending the language classes taught by Sonia Dennis once a week. It has been a rewarding experience. I have learned so much language and have enjoyed getting to know the children from the Dease Lake School.

Kathy Cottrell

I am enjoying my role as the Language Nest Manager. So far, the language nest is in the planning phase and two nest teachers need to be hired and trained. The language nest teachers do not have to be fluent speakers. They just need to be willing to begin learning the language and working with the Elders in speaking only Tāłtān in the nest. In the meantime, I am putting together a handbook for parents and have created

The Iskut language team have also been strong mentors for me in this role. Once their nest is operational again, I will be travelling to Iskut on a weekly basis to observe the Iskut Language Nest in action.

Overall, I am settling into this role and am looking forward to growing more relationships within the community, and of course, the re-opening of the K’asbā’e T’oh Language Nest (Ptarmigan’s nest).

My husband and I have settled into life in Dease Lake, and we love living here. We are getting to know more of my relatives and making new friends. I do not mind the cold, love the snow, and I am not missing the rainy winters on the Sunshine Coast.

Language Nest Manager

Below: Kathy Cottrell at the Language Centre preparing for Christmas Festivities.

Education & Training Director Report

The 2022 Tahltan Environmental Resource Management (ERM) Environment Management Bursary and 2022 Red Chris JV Mine Bursary closed on December 11 at midnight. Tahltan ERM Environment Management closed with twenty-four applicants, and the Red Chris JV Mine closed with twenty-six applicants. All bursary applicants are currently in the scoring process with the hopes of announcing awards by the end of January 2023.

We continue to encourage students to apply for all available bursary opportunities. To simplify the process and reach even more Tahltan students, we have implemented an “online apply” option. Students are also still welcome to apply through the bursary@tahltan.org email. Please go to tahltan.org/bursaries under the Bursary tab for more information.

While we have just made it through the deep freeze of December in Tahltan Territory, the Tahltan Central Government (TCG) Education & Training Department has been on fire supporting students in the application process, the bursary program, and working diligently to bring much-needed training programs to fruition both with our partners and through the Contact North BC (CNBC) Community Learning Centers.

Since September 1, 2022, the TCG Education & Training Department has received ninety applications. Of the ninety applications, the TCG has provided documentation of sponsorship for forty-two students, with thirty-seven students either partially or fully funded in the following categories:

The

CNBC Community Learning Centers continue to gain momentum

and traction

in

supporting capacity

building in territory. Since the last newsletter, several short-term certification courses have been held in Telegraph Creek, Dease Lake, and Iskut.

Eleven community members completed their Red Cross Basic First Aid certification in collaboration with the Telegraph Creek Health Centre. In partnership with the Dease Lake Director, seventeen community members completed the Canadian Firearms Safety Course, and twenty-four were certified in Basic Food Safety Level 1. Additionally, CNBC has eleven clients registered to take online math and English upgrading for their Adult Dogwood diploma and seven more to complete their application and start in the second week of January.

CNBC is currently in dialogue with Coast Mountain College and the First Nations Technology Council to arrange fundamental computer training for twentythree interested clients in Dease Lake, Iskut, and Telegraph Creek. CNBC is ecstatic to report that they

have nineteen community members registered and supported in their online coursework for the winter semester in Tahltan Territory. With twenty-seven more ready to sign up in January and February for upgrading or computer training.

In other partnership news, the TCG has signed the contract for the Dease Lake Trades Sampler to take place at the Dease Lake School starting mid-February to the end of May. The delivery of the program has been adjusted to encompass Grades 8 through 12 as we are committed to being inclusive of all students interested in accessing hands-on experience in four different trades. We continue to strive to provide opportunities for various career pathways. Initiatives such as the Trades Sampler would not be possible without the generosity of our partners with the Industry Training Authority BC (ITABC), Galore Creek Mining Corporation, Newmont Canada, NexGen Mechanical, and Arrow Transport, all providing financial resources. The TCG will also financially invest in our Youth’s futures through the Education & Training Program.

Another exciting partnership initiative is the Heavy Equipment Operators (HEO) course, which will begin taking applicants mid to late January. The program was initiated by the TCG and the Tahltan Nation Development Corporation (TNDC) to address future labour market needs. It has grown to include the ITABC, Red Chris Mine, CNBC, and the provincial government. We aim to build a program that can run for years to come, ensuring we have safe and well-trained HEOs trained by our experienced Tahltan operators who will pass on their knowledge and expertise to the next generation of heavy equipment operators.

In closing, I would like to share that I have accepted the position of TCG Health Director in the newly announced TCG Health Department. The last two years working in Education & Training have been a blessing and an honour. I am grateful for the connections I have made in this position and am incredibly proud of all the Tahltan students who continue to strive toward their educational dreams. I look forward to working with the new TCG Education & Training Director once the position has been filled.

Employment & Business Director Report

Note: you do not have to be a status member to have TCG membership as it is based on your Tahltan ancestry.

TCG membership registration can be found on our tahltan.org website. Our OnTrack Specialist, Lily, will be visiting the Red Chris Mine, to assist with registration of Tahltans on OnTrack in the new year. Help your fellow Tahltans and have them register for OnTrack to gain access to preferential hire.

Ann Ball Employment & Business Director

A site tour of the Cadia Mine in Australia in early December was part of the ongoing development and planning of the block cave undertaking at the Red Chris Mine. A delegation from the Tahltan Central Government (TCG) was invited by Newcrest to come to Australia and not only view the unique underground operations, but also visit successful entrepreneurs that started because of the Cadia Mine. The information presented will be very valuable in the understanding and development of the Red Chris Block Cave. Understanding the differences and types of contracts from this type of mining process is extremely important for all planning phases of employment and business.

ONTRACK

Do you or any Tahltans you know require assistance updating your resume? Lily Sembsmoen is available to assist you through your process. She is available to help write and update your resumes. Her email is otspecialist@tahltan.org and her cell is 867-334-8340. We are continually promoting out OnTrack platform as our site for preferential hire of Tahltans over the coming years, so please encourage all Tahltans and associates to register at ontrack.tahltan.org. It takes a few business days for approval.

A public Business Policy meeting occurred November 8, 2022. From this, a feedback period of two months was put forth to membership with all feedback to be sent by January 16, 2023. We must ensure that we are not just adding barriers for our Tahltan businesses instead of giving them opportunities. This policy is a very important policy for our Nation, and we want to ensure that the process is fair and transparent. The draft policy was placed in the Members Only section of tahltan.org for review and feedback from Tahltan membership. If the policy is approved by the TCG Board of Directors, a process for validating Tahltan businesses using MNP LLP requirements will begin with a secure portal set up for confidential documents they require.

The United Steelworkers Union applied for mediation in mid-summer 2022 with no strike vote taken with the Red Chris Mine; Red Chris has declined the mediators draft agreement but it is important to make sure our Tahltan membership knows that this is going forward. The TCG is taking a firm stance to protect our Impact Benefits Agreement with the Red Chris Mine. The Union will include “employees at and from the Red Chris Mine, except office, administrative and technical employees.” At this time, all parties involved are awaiting a decision from the Labour Relations Board on how they perceive the information collected by all interested parties in the union negotiations of a collaboration agreement.

Part of the Employment & Business Director’s role is to advocate for our Tahltan workforce at any of the sites within Tahltan Territory. Some of our members have utilized this area of the department, and in some cases, there have had highly successful outcomes. It is important for our Tahltan people to know that if

you feel you have not been treated fairly, been subject to racism or discrimination, or are in a situation that requires assistance, that we are here to support you and will do our best to ensure fair treatment. Part of this process involves sending an email requesting assistance with the situation in which you feel you have been treated unfairly or are dealing with. Please email the Employment & Business Department at the address provided below, and we will do our best to assist in all aspects.

Please feel free to contact me any time regarding both employment and business-related issues, at employmentdirector@tahltan.org, or by phone at 778-772-6355.

Left: Cassandra Puckett and Ann Ball tour Cadia Mine to learn about block caving. Panuara, Australia.

Tahltan Membership

Not yet registered as a Tahltan member or Associate?

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Need to update your information?

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Membership & Genealogy Director Report

Fellow Tahltans. A call out to update.

Is it easy to do? Yes, it is very easy to do and you can do it anytime by going to our website: www.tahltan.org

What do I need to do exactly? Simple.

1 Go to the TCG website.

2 At the top of the home page (upper right) click on Tahltan Membership.

3 Scroll down to the Contact Update Form section and click on Contact Update Form.

4 Fill out and click Submit

How often should I update my information?

Shannon Frank

Membership & Genealogy Director

For additional information please contact:

Shannon Frank

Director of Membership & Genealogy membershipdirector@tahltan org

Darcie Louie

Membership Specialist

membershipspecialist@tahltan org

We need you to update your contact information regularly so we can keep you informed. We distribute updates not only regarding elections, but also with critical information for you and your family, such as Impact Benefit Agreement (IBA) votes, employment and training opportunities, scholarships, education, and much more.

Are there any other reasons to update my information?

Yes! And this is especially true for:

Teenagers and Young Adults – When registering children, parents use their own email addresses and phone numbers. As those children grow older and begin to think about future education and training opportunities, they need to update their email, phone number, and address to stay current and to receive information.

Married Recently/Name Change – If you have decided to change your legal name you must update your information and report your name change.

Babies and Children – If you have a new baby, or if you have children that may or may not be registered, please complete and submit a new membership form on their behalf. This ensures their registration and their eligibility for TCG programming.

Moved/Moving – If you have moved it is very important to update your information.

Passings – It is important for our vital statics to be accurate. Please register the passing of any Tahltan members with us to guarantee our information is correct.

Transparency is very important to us. Therefore, please register and update your information regularly to stay current on all things affecting Tahltans.

Dease Lake Community Director Report

The Christmas season brought extra sparkle and cheer with opportunities to gather and be with friends and family. I am grateful for everyone who made it to the planned events, the Ladies’ Christmas Tea, and the Elders’ Christmas Luncheon.

I would like to thank everyone who came out and joined the events and activities throughout 2022. The new year will bring plenty of opportunities for art, crafts, sewing, and other fun activities and I look forward to seeing everybody. If you have any thoughts and ideas of activities you are interested in, please feel free to contact me and we can discuss them.

Wishing you all the happiest new year!

Christina Callbreath Dease Lake Community Director

Hello everyone!

I hope you are all enjoying nice quiet days staying warm and cozy when the cold sets in, and that you are also able to take advantage of the warmer days by enjoying the outdoors.

This winter, we have been able to hold a few more courses in the community that were very well attended. We had a Possession and Acquisition (PAL) course taught by one of our local Dease Lakers, Ken Cook. We appreciate him taking the time to be there for the community. There was also a Food Safe course brought in jointly with Contact North BC and Caitlin Nicholson, that was fun and successful.

I had a chance to help organize and bring some of our Youth to Whitehorse for the Blue Feather Music Festival in November. In collaboration with School District 87 and Bria McLean, we were able to provide a great musical experience for our young musicians. Highlights of the trip were attending the sound check for Bria Rose, the jam session at The Lab rehearsal studio, the tour of ShakatMedia Creative House, skating, the Japan Festival, and meeting the festival headliners Bernard Fowler, who toured with The Rolling Stones, and Stevie Salas, who is a famous Indigenous guitarist, song writer, producer, director, and film composer. Salas is also noted for working/touring with Rod Stewart.

Tourism Director Report

stronger lines of communication and partnership. This has included numerous meetings with outfitters and joining in on wildlife meetings, such as the Wild Sheep Foundation Summit in Prince George.

To encourage more Youth to get involved with outfitting, we will also bring a group of young Tahltans to Safari Club International’s annual convention in Nashville this February. This show is the largest of its kind in North America and brings together thousands of guideoutfitting professionals, businesses, and organizations from around the world, and is well-attended by guide outfitters from Tahltan Territory. Youth will help outfitters at their booths, learn about the industry and employment opportunities, and be provided with opportunities to work in outfitting this upcoming hunting season.

TOURISM SIGNAGE

Alex Buri Tourism Director

Belated happy new year, everyone. I hope this finds you well and on track with your new year’s resolutions. It was great to spend time in the communities before Christmas, attending the Christmas dinners and meeting new faces. These dinners clearly set a high bar for great draw prizes (not to mention amazing feasts). I am looking forward to spending more time with everyone in the territory in the year ahead.

TOURISM INVESTMENTS

This past winter, the Tourism Department has continued to focus on key investment opportunities and ensure we have the right legal entities in place for such investments going forward. This is an important step in ensuring we have the proper framework to diversify and invest in tourism going forward. As mentioned in previous updates, we are currently in the process of finalizing and conducting due diligence on specific investments.

YOUTH TRIP TO NASHVILLE

Given the rich legacy of guide outfitting in Tahltan Territory, we have begun working more closely with the Tahltan Guide Outfitters Association (TGOA) and individual outfitters across the territory to establish

As mentioned in the last update, a working group has been established to start improving signage throughout Tahltan Territory and we are pursuing funding to support this project. This will include signage for rest stops, cultural areas, local trails, and other wayfinding signage to help guide visitors to key sites around the territory. Gathering input and direction from the communities will be the first step in identifying which places and stories we want to share with visitors. This is an exciting project that will span multiple TCG departments, the Tahltan and Iskut Bands, and communities to connect stories with landscape to better showcase Tahltan culture and territory.

OPPORTUNITIES FOR YOUTH

This is a continued callout to Tahltan Youth who are interested in getting out on the land this summer and fall. We will be conducting numerous scouting trips across the territory, and we can also help facilitate positions or placements on various river, hiking, or outfitter trips.  If you know anyone who might be interested in joining one of these trips and learning basic skills in a safe environment, please let me know at tourismdirector@tahltan.org.

THIS IS OUR LAND. WE ARE THE LAND.

The Tahltan Stewardship Initiative (TSI) will support our Nation in asserting self-determination and fulfilling our inherent stewardship responsibilities for Tahltan Territory. The TSI will help us to build our engagement, governance, and stewardship plans.

This vital work is needed to ensure we take care of our territory now and for future generations.

The Tahltan Stewardship Initiative (TSI) is our opportunity for transformative change based on the recognition of Tahltan Title and Rights.

Now, we have a say in decisions that matter for our people in accordance with our values and knowledge. We decide how to protect our culture, care for our lands, water, air, fish, and wildlife. We decide how to sustainably manage our territory.

TSI means Tahltans working together to transform how things are done. Through TSI, the rules are changing, and we are shaping the process.

Vision Statement

The vision of the Tahltan Stewardship Initiative is for the Tahltan Nation to fulfill its inherent stewardship responsibilities for all lands, water, air, wildlife, fish, and natural resources within Tahltan Territory. We will accomplish this vision through the work being done on our projects including the Tahltan Stewardship Plan (TSP) and direction from Tahltan membership. The TSP is being developed for Tahltan Territory and will be based on Tahltan knowledge and worldview on how to properly care for our land.

TAHLTAN STEWARDSHIP INITIATIVE WEBSITE

Get Involved!

If you do not have a lot of time to commit but would like to contribute – you can. There are many ways for you to stay informed and be a part of this important work. Visit: tsi.tahltan.org at any time to learn about each of our projects, connect with our project team, complete project surveys and mapping exercises, watch previous engagement sessions, and more – whenever it works for you!

Interested in learning more or getting involved?

Ȗ Reach out to us: communications@tahltan.org

1980s

The Tahltan Ancestral Study with Elders

2003

Out of Respect Report

2013

The Shared Decision-Making Agreement with the Province of British Columbia

2016

Wildlife Department formed within the TCG

2018–2021

The Collaborative Stewardship Framework with the 3 Nations and the Province of British Columbia

2020

Fisheries Department formed within the TCG

1987

Resource Development Policy

2005

Formation of the Tahltan Heritage Resources Environmental Assessment Team (THREAT)

2015

Lands Department formed within the Tahltan Central Government

2017

The Klappan Plan and the Klappan Management Board

2019

Culture & Heritage Department formed within the TCG

Each of these projects and efforts has helped to advance our Nation and support our unified goals founded on the principles of mutual respect, recognition, and reconciliation of Tahltan title and rights. Together, we work to protect the environment, safeguard our culture and heritage, ensure shared revenues and other benefits from sustainable development, and strengthen the well-being of our Tahltan Nation family.

Resource Development Policy Statement

April 7, 1987 – In history as well as in mythology, the Tahltan Indian people have always been acknowledged as the original inhabitants of the Stikine River Watershed in northern British Columbia. Archaeological evidence has determined that the Tahltan people have continuously occupied this area for thousands for years, perhaps as many as 10,000. This is what is often referred to in poetic terms as “since time immemorial.”

The first white person to come into Tahltan country was Samuel Black who arrived in 1821 exploring for the Northwest Trading Company. Our people never met Black and so it wasn’t until 1838 when the second white person, Robert Campbell of the Hudson Bay Company, entered our territory that European contact with our people was first made.

Tahltans had an elaborate trading economy already established when the Hudson Bay Company first encountered our tribe. Although the H.B. Co. was very interested in immediately setting up a competing trading operation in Tahltan country, our people blocked them for approximately forty years so as to protect our own established trading economy. At that time Tahltans had an active commercial network based on our position as a middleman between the coastal trade and the tribes living north and east of Stikine country. We also traded our own fish and furs and other natural resources such as obsidian to all peoples who came into our country.

Tahltan people are very proud of our tradition of commercial enterprise and equally proud that we were able to protect our interests against the mighty H.B. Co. empire for those many years. It wasn’t until the 1870’s Cassiar gold rush was in full swing that the H.B. Co. was able to open its first trading post in Tahltan traditional territory.

Even though our people have lost the monopoly position of business in our own country, we are still active on many business fronts. Our present tribal objective is to increase our participation in all business that develops within the borders of our tribal territory so that we can again enjoy a self-sustaining healthy and enterprising economy.

We wish to make it very clear that Tahltan people and the Tahltan Tribal Council are not inherently opposed to any specific type of business or resource development within our country. However, we do feel strongly that any development within our tribal territory must adhere to some basic principles that the Tahltan Tribal Council has developed.

We appreciated that most private developers “just want to conduct their business.” They do not want to have any discussions or participate in any actions that have overtones of aboriginal rights or native politics. We in one sense sympathize with that wish of developers because we, as businessmen, also experience frustration when politics begin to directly affect our business endeavors. However, the reality is that if our tribal objective of achieving substantial participation in business

development within our country is to be realized within a reasonable time, we must combine politics and business when dealing with developers wishing to establish themselves within Tahltan country. Developers will have to come to terms with this reality if they expect to function successfully within our territory.

Before a resource development project can commence within Tahltan tribal territory, it will be necessary for the developer and the Tahltan Tribal Council to enter into a project participation agreement that encompasses the following elements and basic principles:

1 assurance that the development will not pose a threat of irreparable environmental damage;

2 assurance that the development will not jeopardize, prejudice or otherwise compromise the outstanding Tahltan aboriginal rights claim;

3 assurance that the project will provide more positive than negative social impacts on Tahltan people;

4 provision for the widest possible opportunity for education and direct employment-related training for Tahltan people in connection with the project;

5 provision for the widest possible opportunity for employment opportunities for Tahltan people with respect to all phases of the development;

6 provision for substantial equity participation by Tahltans in the total project;

7 provision for the widest possible development of Tahltan business opportunities over which the developer may have control or influence;

8 provision of the developer to assist the Tahltans to accomplish the objectives stated above by providing financial and managerial assistance and advice where deemed necessary.

If resource developers and the Tahltan Tribal Council can reach agreement embracing the points noted above, then we believe that Tahltans, the developers and all other Canadians will enjoy equitable benefits from each resource development undertaken and there will be business harmony within Tahltan traditional tribal territory.

Signed: Vernon Marion, President Tahltan Tribal Council – April 7, 1987

TAHLTAN TERRITORY OVERVIEW

The Tahltan Territory spans 95,933 square km of Northwest British Columbia or the equivalent of 11% of the province. The territory is rich in natural resources and continues to garner international atttention for its mineral potential and diverse, iconic wildlife.

TAHLTAN TERRITORY IS HOME TO:

Ȗ Approximately 70% of BC’s resource rich Golden Triangle;

Ȗ Two of BC’s 10 operating mines or theirshared footprint;

Ȗ Approximately 53% of BC’s exploration activities by expenditure, 14% of Canada’sand 3% of the world;

Ȗ Annual exploration expenditures on projects is currently estimated at approximately $295 million, with production values for active mines estimated to be approximately $1 .05 billion

LEGEND

COMMUNITIES EXPENDITURES

Personal Profiles

John Nole

we are in water for the first nine months of our lives in our mother’s womb. Water and earth combined form our Earth-Mother who cares for us like a mother. She feeds us, supports, and protects us.

John worries about the land and the food it provides and believes the Tahltan Nation, and people are capable of being global environmental leaders. John views the water, tributaries, rivers, creeks, and water ways as human veins connected to our heart. Our sacred headwaters and all the waterways connected to them are important to Tahltans and have been since time immemorial. Our ancestors’ strength came from the life that our waters provide. John believes that Life in Tahltan Territory comes from our fish, wildlife, flora and fauna, and Tahltans have a duty to speak for the unspoken. Our land and life have many voices and sounds that speak to us through the knowledge of our ancestors and spirits.

Our Elder, John Nole, is a Tahltan leader whose heart can teach Tahltans and others many things. John was born in Telegraph Creek and at four months, he moved to Iskut and has lived there ever since. John spent time learning from his Elders and family as a young man and has since applied those teachings and experiences to protecting Tahltan cultural ways of life and land. John’s grandfather taught him that Tahltans are no different from the tree roots on the land; we belong to the land.

Growing up in Iskut and learning from his grandparents on the land in Klabona territory, his love and advocacy for the territory began with fighting against BC Hydro’s major project that was the Iskut-Stikine Dam Proposal, and later against Shell’s natural gas projects in Tahltan Territory both of which put the sacred headwaters at risk. John remembers camping and living at Eddontenajon Lake, Tatogga Lake, Kinaskan Lake, and Natadesleen Lake; all the headwaters of the Iskut that provide Tahltans and our neighbours with life.

The water in Tahltan Territory is very precious and sacred to John and all Tahltans and he believes we must work together to protect it. John says water is life-giving and if we destroy our water and harm the land, fish, and wildlife, we are committing suicide and a long process of self-harm. Water takes care of us, as

John remembers growing up in the mountains and Tahltans had no worries about clean drinking water. Our wildlife populations and ancestors survived because the food that they ate, the plants, and medicine they would harvest were usable because they were from a healthy ecosystem with all the necessities of life.

John’s dream is for Tahltans to come together and speak with one unified voice for each other and those with no voice. If we are to come together and speak as a unified voice, John believes Tahltans must work within the two worlds we live and use all the technology and tools available to capture Tahltan language, history, stories, and relationships.

John believes our next generation needs to know about their family relations and the history of their ancestors. John, an avid musician, credits listening to an old cassette tape of his cousin playing music as a Youth as being his inspiration for learning and performing music.

Left: John and his grandson.

Chayce Tuton

The Tahltan Central Government (TCG) is proud to introduce Chayce Tuton as this winter’s Healthy Active Tahltan. Chayce is in Grade 11 at F.H Collins Secondary School in Whitehorse, Yukon where he plays hockey. He recently represented Team Yukon in Prince Edward Island in the 2023 Canada Winter Games and Mustangs Hockey.

Chayce and his teammates broke several records at the Canada Games. Chayce became the highest-scoring defensemen, Jase Johnstone tied Sidney Crosby’s point total, and Gavin McKenna broke the points record helping Team Yukon finish in tenth place.

Speaking with Chayce, his success at the Canada Games and his love of hockey are all about relationships. The friendships that he has made through the game he credits as having had the biggest impact on this life and playing career thus far. Chayce relishes the moments when you are battling with your brothers and the dry land training banter and practice shenanigans. It is in these moments Chayce has built unity and relationships for life thanks to hockey.

Chayce’s reflection on his journey to the 2023 Canada Winter Games starts with his family and friends’ love and support. Having a strong “house family” his mother, father/coach, sister, grandparents and friends are his support system. It is the love and support of his friends and family that helped Chayce through the lows in his playing career, the beginning of which had what he described as a rough start. Chayce worked hard, practicing his skating on the outdoor rinks and at home, and remembers practicing in his basement shooting at a net that eventually moved outside when his shot got a bit more accurate. Chayce credits his hard work, commitment, and maturity towards training and work ethic for his newfound success on the ice.

Though there was a moment a few years back where Chayce lost his passion and love for the game when his peers were heading south for hockey opportunities and he was not going with them, through this tough moment there was an opportunity to mature and learn, and Chayce took full advantage of the chance. He credits this as a foundational moment in both his athletic and life journey. Chayce took his opportunity to play competitive hockey with the Whitehorse Mustangs where he became a leader in the dressing room wearing a letter. Leadership to this healthy active Tahltan means taking responsibility on and off the ice, building team morale, and leading by example in dry land training and on ice practice.

How Chayce became a defenseman is also an example of why he is a fantastic young leader. At an away tournament, a top defenseman was injured badly, and now short defensemen, Chayce, went to the coaches to ask if he could give it a shot in the backend. Chayce thrived in this new role and his willingness to take risks and to try to help his team is an example of top-class leadership. Chayce’s recordbreaking Canada Games play comes down to putting in extra shifts and wearing his heart on his sleeve by playing for his teammates with commitment and passion.

Chayce is demonstrating that he is a young leader who plays with heart and the crest on the front, who walks through life as a humble, hard-working teammate. Chayce is maturing into a fantastic young Tahltan leader, that shows other young Tahltans that success is about chasing our dreams with hard work, sacrifices, and discipline.

Chayce is very proud to represent the Tahltan Nation and Yukon knowing that he is representing his family, friends, and peers. To be a healthy active Tahltan, Chayce puts the work in on and off the ice, knowing that success on the ice requires building healthy team morale. Being a leader is not just putting points on the board but making it your lifestyle. Chayce views his hockey team and staff as family and credits his teammates, coaches, and staff who have supported him throughout the highs and lows of the game. Through the difficult times, his Tahltan stubbornness and perseverance kept Chayce playing and waiting for his chance.

Shakita Jensen

recognized a need for coaches in the north and knew she had valuable knowledge to pass on. The hockey community had given her so much and she felt it was her obligation to give it back, so after aging out of minor hockey, Shakita knew she wanted to go back and coach. Her coaching career began in 2020, where she helped out with her brother’s under thirteen team for two years, then moved up with him to coach his under fifteen team.

Supporting high-level development for sport across the north and increasing Indigenous female representation in hockey is no small task, but Shakita Jensen is determined to do both and is already making strides in that direction.

Shakita is Tahltan through her dad, Will Jensen’s side of the family. Her grandparents are Jim Jensen and Fern Dennis. Her mom is Sheena Jensen, and she has a younger brother named Ryder who is also a hockey player.

Starting hockey at five years old, Shakita is still actively involved in the game at the age of twenty-five. She competed in the Arctic Winter Games in 2012, 2014, and 2016 and very nearly competed in the Canada Games in 2016 until a concussion weeks before the event forced her to withdraw. As a player, she

Interested in joining as an assistant coach in the Canada Winter Games, Shakita applied for the position in 2021 and was disappointed to learn she was unsuccessful in her application. However, not one to give up, she heard about an opportunity with the Aboriginal Apprentice Coach Program which would allow her to attend the Canada Winter Games with Team Northwest Territories women’s hockey. This time, she was successful, and had a busy year with weekly planning and preparation for games, including working to ensure the teams’ fitness was up to par, improving team bonding, working on plays, and more. She recently travelled to Prince Edward Island to support the team as they completed in late February 2023 and described the experience as awesome. Hers was a young team, and while they did not win a game, it was still a blast and incredible to watch all of the other teams and athletes. Naturally drawn to watching how coaches talked to their athletes and asking a lot of questions of her coaching staff, it was an educational experience for the young apprentice coach.

Born and raised in Yellowknife, Northwest Territories, Shakita also works full-time as the Environment and Natural Resources Coordinator for the Northwest Territories Government. She is also working to complete her Bachelor of Science in Environmental Practice through Royal Roads University online, which allows her to continue working and coaching at the same time.

The advice she gives to other young Tahltans comes, in part, from a former Aboriginal Apprentice Coach who spoke to her at the Canada Winter Games, saying, “As Indigenous peoples, you have to get used to being comfortable with being uncomfortable.” She says this summed up exactly how she felt during her experience and really resonated with her. Shakita says to trust yourself and what you know, and know that you belong where you are. Stick with it and opportunities will come. This has proven true for Shakita who since being accepted as an apprentice coach has had calls requesting her to coach women’s hockey at the Arctic Winter Games in Fort McMurray this past January.

While she regrets that she has not yet had the opportunity to visit Tahltan Territory, this is something Shakita plans to do in the near future. She would love to travel there with her dad to help her reconnect with her Tahltan culture and identity. She says that she would be extremely interested in running a hockey camp in territory and working with local coaches to make it happen.

Shakita is grateful to family that has been her biggest support system, guiding her through difficult times and reminding her not to give up with things get hard. Aside from spending time with them and friends, in her free time she enjoys beading, reading, and watching movies.

Above: Shakita winning the 2022 Aboriginal Coach Award through the Aboriginal Sports Circle NWT.

Bottom: Shakita coaching her brother Ryder at the 2023 Canada Winter Games.

YOUNG TAHLTANS

Samuel Burger

After enrolling in and starting his business degree with a major in accounting at the University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC), he started to hear and read about Jeux du Commerce (JDC) West, a prestigious undergraduate business competition in Western Canada. Samuel became interested in the program and contacted the co-captain to find out when the try out was. Though curious, he thought it was a long shot. JDC West is full of Western Canada’s top business students and is highly competitive.

Becoming a parent, especially during the first month while surviving on next to no sleep, is challenging enough on its own. Try adding a full-time business degree, a part time job, and participation in the largest undergraduate business competition in Western Canada. Samuel Burger manages to do it all while remaining positive, motivated, and committed to each, making him an inspiring young Tahltan.

Twenty-three-year-old Samuel was born and raised in Terrace, BC. He credits his time spent in Tahltan Territory for most of his development as a young man. He gets his Tahltan heritage from his dad, Clayton Burger’s side. His grandparents are Charles and Sandra “Collette” Quock.

Every fall, Samuel and his dad went on annual hunting trips to Iskut and Klappan Valley where he learned to hunt. His dad told him his own childhood stories of doing the same thing with Samuel’s grandfather. Despite having a demanding job in forestry, Samuel’s dad never failed to carve out time for these hunting trips and was his son’s mentor, teaching him about business and what it means to be a good and honest man.

Samuel’s business career path began with work in the forestry business sector. Despite working as a chainsaw operator, his dad mentored him during this time, and he gained a ton of practical business experience, learning about business strategy, running job sites, and more.

Like many others, Samuel has suffered from selfdoubt, but with support and encouragement from his girlfriend, Rebecca, Samuel tried out anyway. Much to his surprise, he was actually selected to join the UNBC’s JDC West Business Strategy Team. Competitions are intense and require him to throw aside that self-doubt. With minimal preparation time, candidates present on complex business issues, taking on the role of a business consultant. Audiences are typically in the range of thirty to forty people, when in the past Samuel had found it difficult to present even to much smaller groups. He describes the experience as lifechanging. The connections he has made will last forever and he says it has transformed him from a closed-off person into someone much more confident and outgoing.

Samuel is lucky to have supportive family and friends and both parents serve as role models. His mom, Lorie Burger, has been a trail blazer for him and an educational mentor throughout his life. Lorie went back to school to complete her degree right before Samuel finished high school and then followed with a master’s in education.

In the future, Samuel plans to get his Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) certification and then work in the public accounting space for a bit before returning to Tahltan Territory. He strongly hopes to work in Indigenous business and bring his skills back to help the Nation.

Samuel shared one of his favourite quotes in the hopes that it might inspire other Tahltans the way it has him.

“You don’t become confident by shouting affirmations in the mirror, but by having a stack of undeniable proof you are who you say you are.”

Alex Hormozi.

Verna Vance

Verna has worn many hats helping teach and preserve Tāłtān language and culture. Verna worked at the school in Telegraph Creek as a secretary, a special education assistant, and taught Tāłtān language for one year, where she helped create a book on the famous Tahltan Bear Dog and had students create the illustrations. Before her current roles, Verna also worked for the preschool Head Start program in Telegraph Creek.

Verna’s deep passion for teaching and sharing Tahltan culture she credits to how she was raised listening to Tāłtān language in the home. Verna also grew up learning to dance and sing from Johnny Frank who learned from Rosey Dennis. Verna says that there is a powerful spiritual feeling when you put on your regalia and that “you become a different person when you sing and dance, you feel so proud”. Currently, Verna is working to re-establish a Tahltan dance group so future Tahltans in communities like Whitehorse, Victoria, Mayo, and beyond can share song and dance like she did.

Verna Vance was born and raised in Telegraph Creek and remembers growing up on the land with her parents Henry and Janet Vance. Verna also spent a lot of time with her Tsu (grandma), Fanny Woods, on the land learning language and culture. Verna’s fondest memories growing up were fish camp and spending time at their family’s hunting camp on Blueberry Mountain. Her grandma Fanny has been her biggest inspiration in her current work and ignited her passion for teaching, sharing, and preserving Tahltan language and culture.

Verna currently works with the Tahltan Band Council providing language and cultural support and she works part time with the Tahltan Central Government (TCG) Language Department on the Dictionary Project. Verna claims to be a silent speaker, which means she can understand the language better than she can speak it.

Verna remembers the smell of moose hides and listening to her Tsu tell her stories about how our ancestors used to live and share their stories. Verna believes our Elders’ stories have the power to bring you back in time, allowing you to connect with and experience their story. The stories and cultural teachings have shown Verna that to learn the Tāłtān language, you need to learn the land; we cannot have one without the other.

Verna’s son Caleb is also an excellent language speaker who helped record for the Tāłtān Dictionary Project. Caleb is a fine example of Tahltan generational learning who brings immense pride to the Vance family. At eight years old, Caleb has learned the same way as Verna, both from his grandparents on the land and listening to his family speak Tāłtān and share their stories. Verna contributes to Caleb’s success in language using the values and principles that her teachers gave her, including being respectful, a hard worker, and a good listener.

To experience Verna’s passion and excitement for sharing Tahltan culture, ask her about last April’s snowshoeing class she recorded. With the help of modern technology, Verna captured the snowshoeing class and assembly of traditional snowshoes

that will eventually turn into a how-to-video.

Image captions

Cover Page — Ptarmigan on Caribou Pass

Page B — Trapping up Klappan with Guardian Richard Louie and Predator Technician Dwayne Tashoots

Page D — Night sky over Tahltan

Page 5 — Moonrise over Gnat Pass

Page 8 — White-winged crossbill feeding around the Snowrider’s cabin

Page 12 — Rockslide across from Groundhog Blanket

Page 16 — Photo by Guardian Clements Tashoots

Page 31 — In the winter, Guardian Clements Brace travels over 100 km in -20°c+ to check his traps every 2 or 3 days

Page 55 — Looking down the Stikine from Glenora

Page 60 — Heading west over Caribou Pass

Page 71/72 — Night sky to the North of Dease Lake

WINTER NEWSLETTER 2023

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