Message from the Chief Willie Sellars

Weytk-p,

Spring is in full swing in the territory. Sitting here looking out at the valley has me thankful for the warmer weather, slow melt, and the opening of our waterways. Springtime always has a special place in my heart. Creek fishing, riding bikes, outdoor sports like basketball, hiking and baseball are a big part of our balance as a family. We always have to think about our balance as a people, and I’d encourage you to make sure you’re working towards yours, every single day.

2023 marks the one year anniversary of the SJM investigation announcement and the 93 anomalies that were found in phase one. The investigation has continued into phase two and we announced an additional 66 anomalies on January 25th, 2023. We understand this may be triggering to members and for Indigenous people throughout Turtle Island, but we have to continue to seek the truth if we’re going to heal. The sacred fire, drumming and ceremony that followed the announcement continues to help us strengthen our connection to our culture and our ancestors, while providing supports and outlets for those struggling during these trying times. The feedback from the four-day Sacred Fire was great and with the multiple nations represented, the amount of non-Indigenous supporters we had in attendance, it fills our heart as a Council that there’s hope in this reconciliation journey we’re currently on as a country. Our team is continuing this work into consecutive phases and we plan to keep the community and public informed as we work through the grounds at the SJM site and surrounding area.

The specific claim monies have arrived and our trust is up and running! One of my proudest moments while in leadership at WLFN was having the opportunity to be a part of the ongoing battle for this specific claim. Previous Chiefs and Councils continued to make this a priority and we’ve finally came to a resolution, after almost 30 years of fighting. Fast forward to present day and we now have those monies in our community trust. We’re in a position to realize those benefits for generations. I’d like to hope our Elders and ancestors would be proud of this work and how we structured the trust.

I wanted to close by again stressing the importance of our balance as individuals and as communities. Finding what makes you happy, what feeds your soul should be one of our top priorities. As a part of that balance I also encourage you to pick up that drum, use your voice, learn those songs and remember your culture. Make it a priority this year to participate in ceremony and learn your language. Our community and our nation is getting stronger because of the healing that is happening and I am so thankful to be a part of it.

Please, if you have any questions or concerns, or are curious about something that I have failed to mention, feel free to email me at willie.sellars@ wlfn.ca, or phone me at 250.302.1883.