Tla’amin Nation leadership is expressing deep concern about a disturbing incident that has occurred at lɛχʷamɛn (Pocahontas Bay) on Texada Island, where Tla’amin private property has been vandalized with racist remarks directed to the nation and its citizens.
According to a media release, lɛχʷamɛn has profound significance for Tla’amin Nation. Its citizens have used the lands and resources for thousands of years for social, cultural and ceremonial purposes, and this particular bay was used historically as an important place of refuge to weather seasonal storms, the release stated.
During the summer months, Tla’amin youth camps use this area to learn about the nation’s cultural history and practices, a critical part of promoting and revitalizing Tla’amin culture, according to the release. lɛχʷamɛn is also protected by Tla’amin’s treaty with British Columbia and Canada, and its rights to the land and resources are protected by provincial, federal and Tla’amin laws.
Texada Island residents are granted access to lɛχʷamɛn by contacting the Tla’amin lands department for permission. Signs were installed at the entrance to remind visitors to clean up after their visits and to respect the land by not cutting down trees, and to report any infractions to Tla’amin government staff.
“This act of racism is a reflection of the systemic discrimination that Tla’amin citizens continue to experience on a daily basis,” stated hegus John Hackett. “It is very unfortunate that people continue to disrespect our nation and lɛχʷamɛn. I don’t think the residents of Texada and the broader qathet region appreciate this kind of negative attention.”
qathet Regional District does not condone racist or discriminatory acts of any kind, stated regional board chair Patrick Brabazon.
“Every member of our region should feel safe, regardless of age, gender, ethnicity or background,” stated Brabazon. “We stand united with our friends, neighbours and partners, the Tla’amin Nation, and condemn this destructive and callous act of vandalism. Those who inflict their hateful comments upon others of our community achieve nothing of consequence, the pain they cause will pass, and the reality of our collective goodwill will triumph.”
Powell River-Sunshine Coast MLA Nicholas Simons stated that he is disturbed to know people would have such disrespect in their hearts toward Tla’amin.
“We know that racism exists in our communities and it needs to be called out whenever we see or hear it,” added Simons. “Most of us are honestly learning how essential it is to acknowledge past wrongs and take strides towards reconciliation. I’m thinking of Tla’amin and I stand with all those who are hurt when they see this kind of racist vandalism.”
Everyone has the right to feel welcomed, secure and respected in their community, stated North Island-Powell River MP Rachel Blaney.
“Vandalism and racism are criminal acts and have no place in our society,” added Blaney. “Honouring property lines, picking up your garbage and respecting the First Peoples of the territory is never too much to ask. I stand with Tla’amin Nation in condemning this racist act of violence.”
The nation is asking people to contact Tla’amin lands development at 604.414.5557, or the RCMP, if they witness acts of hate and racism or vandalism of Tla’amin property.
