A document that aims to “foster a stronger partnership, enhance communication, and promote a deeper understanding and respect for each other's governance structures and cultural values” is now official between the Capital Regional District (CRD), W̱JOȽEȽP (Tsartlip), and W̱SIḴEM (Tseycum) First Nations, through the W̱SÁNEĆ Leadership Council (WLC).
The memorandum of understanding formalized the government-to-government relationship, outlining principles for working together and supporting the creation of new processes for respectful and reciprocal government-to-government decision-making.
“W̱SÁNEĆ are a strong people, with unique culture, language, and traditional practices. We must continue to work based upon the guidance of our Elders, so that our children have a future to look forward to on their own territory,” Tseycum Chief Tanya Jimmy said in news release.
The document sets out priority topics for collaboration, including in governance; economic and employment opportunities; protection of ancestral sites; solid waste management; regional and community parks; environmental protection; land acquisition; art, place names and public education; harvesting opportunities; and cultural learning opportunities for CRD board and staff.
“The time has come for local governments to play a significant role in the work of reconciliation. The W̱SÁNEĆ Leadership Council, on behalf of W̱JOȽEȽP and W̱SIḴEM, is working directly with the CRD, not because we want to become like municipalities or regional districts, but because local government authorities make decisions over W̱SÁNEĆ Territory, which our people have a responsibility to protect,” said Tsartlip Chief Don Tom, chair of the leadership board.
“This responsibility stems from W̱SÁNEĆ ancient laws, created by XÁLS, the Creator. These laws and orders have survived colonization. I strongly encourage the CRD to advance the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and respect W̱SÁNEĆ Douglas Treaty Rights. This MOU will aid the CRD in doing just that, and in advancing initiatives that will benefit both W̱SÁNEĆ and the general public.”
Regular points of connection aim to foster stronger relationships and provide tangible, on-the-ground benefits by facilitating direct dialogue and immediate problem-solving. Those include CRD and WLC staff meeting on a regular basis to ensure ongoing communication and implementation of a shared workplan as well as annual government-to-government meetings between leadership and elected representatives.
Including W̱JOȽEȽP and W̱SIḴEM priorities, and First Nations knowledge into CRD initiatives will help foster a more inclusive approach to regional government, according to the CRD, which operates on the territory of the W̱SÁNEĆ people.
"The signing of this MOU represents a mutual recognition of the importance of cooperation. By working together, we can address shared challenges and create opportunities that benefit all members of our communities," CRD board chair Cliff McNeil-Smith said. "This agreement reflects our commitment to fostering a mutually respectful relationship and advancing reconciliation. I look forward to working together to achieve our common goals and enhance the well-being of the region."
