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“Since the dawn of history, Spotted Lake or “kɬlil̕xʷ” as we call it, has been a sacred place. Indians from all tribes came to visit the lake for the medicine the lake contains. The ceremonial cairns, too numerous to count that surround the lake testify to that. Some of these are so ancient they have sunk underground and only their tops remain above ground. Some are buried altogether. There are many stories told by our ancestors about the cures this lake has provided, physically and spiritually through its medicine powers.”
– excerpt from the Statement of the Okanagan Tribal Chiefs (1979)
A miraculous lake and natural wonder, it holds deep cultural and spiritual significance as a sacred site of healing and ceremony to the Syilx Okanagan people.
While kɬlil̕xʷ (Spotted Lake) is undoubtedly a geological wonder, fit holds profound significance for the Syilx Okanagan people, serving as a sacred medicinal lake and a protected cultural site. For centuries, Syilx people have gone to kɬlil̕xʷ to seek healing, whether it be physically or spiritually. It has been shared by the Syilx member communities of the Okanagan Nation Alliance since time immemorial.
History
In 1963, Ernest Smith purchased the mineral rights to kłlilx’ʷ. Between 1970 to 1980, kłlilx’ʷ was advertised as a mineral bathing pool and an application was submitted to rezone the area for tourist and commercial purposes. For over two decades, the Okanagan Nation Alliance took legal and political action to oppose development of kłlilx’ʷ and its surrounding area.
In 2001, after several decades of advocacy work from Syilx Elders and Chiefs, the Okanagan Nation Alliance and the Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development successfully finalized the acquisition of the 56-acre site of kɬlil̕xʷ; which is now protected and monitored by its original caretakers – the Syilx Okanagan Nation.
The Syilx Nation has been able to preserve and protect this sacred site from development and restore it as an essential cultural and ecological site.
Ecology
The lake is characterized by 365 circles of various shapes and depths, each having their own distinct makeup of minerals, including dense deposits of magnesium sulfate, calcium and sodium sulfates. The lake also contains high concentrations of eight other minerals and lower amounts of silver and titanium.
During the spring season the spots of kɬlil̕xʷ are covered by groundwater and spring runoff, but throughout the summer most of the water will evaporate to expose the colorful mineral deposits. The color of the spots is determined by the mineral composition and seasonal amount of precipitation, with magnesium sulfate crystals being a major contributor to spot colour.
Visiting kɬlil̕xʷ
The importance of this sacred site cannot be underestimated. In order that it may be preserved for future generations, access to the lake is monitored by the Syilx Okanagan Nation.
Visitors are welcome to observe the lake from the highway, outside the gate. Entering the site is restricted to those with Syilx ancestry for healing and ceremonial purposes. Those who wish visit the lake beyond the gate should seek permission by contacting the Okanagan Nation Alliance.
We kindly ask that members of the public respect the sites cultural and ecological significance and do not disturb the area. limləmt (thank you)
“Spotted lake is the central point of the Okanagan. This lake is chief among lakes, where all water, minerals and salt converge. Our people view the lake as many lakes within a lake… Each circle (spot) has a particular healing quality. Our people have used each circle as a separate medicine. When we are sick or in need of spiritual inspiration, we go down to the lake and use its power. Anyone who goes to the lake will find the right circle if they seek.”
– excerpt from the Statement of the Okanagan Tribal Chiefs (1979)
Syilx Okanagan ceremony protocols focus on respect for the land, ancestors, and Creator, highlighting reciprocity, humility, and responsibility. They are integral to daily life and guide interactions with the environment and one another.
The Syilx Water Declaration serves as a living document on the Syilx relations and values to water. This document communicates the importance of water and responsibilities we have as Syilx people.
"We are the unconquered aboriginal people of this land, our mother; The creator has given us our mother, to enjoy, to manage and to protect;" The Okanagan Nation Declaration is a significant document that embodies the collective aspirations, values, and rights of the Syilx Okanagan people.
