Assembly of First Nations National Chief Shawn A-in-chut Atleo will be one of several special guests at an event hosted by Tla’Amin (Sliammon) First Nation on Thursday, May 10. The event takes place from 1 to 4 pm at Sliammon Salish Centre, just five weeks before Tla’Amin members cast their votes on a proposed treaty.
Joining Atleo will be Tsawwassen First Nation Chief Kim Baird, whose members ratified BC’s first urban treaty agreement five years ago.
Also attending will be leaders from the five Maa-nulth treaty nations on Vancouver Island’s west coast whose treaty came into effect one year ago. As well, Sophie Pierre, chief commissioner of BC Treaty Commission, will attend.
Tla’Amin’s favourite son, Dr. Evan Adams, who is BC’s deputy provincial health officer, rounds out the list of attending dignitaries.
Tla’Amin Chief Clint Williams said anticipation of the June 16 vote is growing in his nation. “We are honoured to have Chief Atleo and other leaders with us as we make the final push toward voting day.
“It has been a long journey for us since we entered stage one of the BC treaty process in 1994. Sadly, we have lost several of our key elders during the process, but we are strengthened by the growing numbers of our youth who see treaty as essential to their futures.”
Atleo commended the leadership and strength of all Tla’Amin members in asserting their rights and continuing to forge a path for this and future generations. “We must all move forward with a keen eye on the past, reflecting on where we’ve come from and also with a strong focus and vision of where we’re going,” he said. “The full involvement and active engagement of all of the citizens of Sliammon First Nation is key in taking next steps together as a community and nation. This is how our decision making has always been done and I support and encourage all first nations coming together to shape their path for the future.”
