Land Acknowledgements
The Syilx Okanagan People’s territory is a diverse and beautiful landscape of deserts and lakes, alpine forests and endangered grasslands. It extends over approximately 69,000 square kilometers. The northern area of this territory was close to the area of Mica Creek, just north of modern day Revelstoke, BC, and the eastern boundary was between Kaslo and Kootenay Lakes. The southern boundary extended to the vicinity of Wilbur, Washington and the western border extended into the Nicola Valley.
By recognizing the enduring relationship between Syilx Okanagan people and our traditional lands, we honour the deep connection to the land and our ongoing stewardship of it. This recognition involves not only a verbal statement, but a commitment to understanding and respecting the history and culture of Syilx Okanagan people. It is not only good to give a verbal acknowledgement, but to have following actions with that. As well as helping spread awareness and use this gesture of respect to step toward building a more inclusive and informed society.
Verbal: “I would like to acknowledge that we are gathered today on the traditional, ancestral, unceded territory of the Syilx Okanagan people.”
Written: “We/I acknowledge that our community/business is located on the traditional, ancestral, unceded territory of the Syilx Okanagan people.”
For territory acknowledgement and introduction of an Syilx Okanagan representative:
‘I would like to acknowledge that we are gathered today on the traditional, ancestral, unceded territory of the Syilx Okanagan people. I will now ask (name and title of representative) to bring a welcome on behalf of the Syilx Okanagan.’
Why are land acknowledgements important?
First, land acknowledgements demonstrate your commitment to the Truth and Reconciliation movement and recognizing Syilx people are still here.
Secondly, to recognize that the Okanagan territory is unceded. Which means our land was never surrendered, our land was just stolen.
Requesting a Territorial Welcome and Prayer
Elders are and have always been our knowledge keepers. They are responsible for sharing knowledge and providing guidance with respect to the natural world. It is traditional Syilx protocol to invite an elder from the community we are in to give an opening prayer to show respect to the community and the land.
Drumming and dancing are one expression of Syilx history, spirituality, and culture. Although enjoyable, it should not be requested solely for entertainment purposes as it is considered a sacred ritual of prayer-offering.
To request a Syilx Nation representative to provide a Welcome and/or Opening Prayer, please contact the nearest Syilx Okanagan Member Community in the area of your event or meeting.
- Westbank First Nation: West Kelowna, Kelowna, Peachland
- snpink’tn Indian Band: Summerland, Penticton, Kaledan
- Osoyoos Indian Band: Oliver, Osoyoos, Okanagan Falls
- Okanagan Indian Band: Vernon, Spallumcheen, Lake Country
- Lower Similkameen Indian Band: Cawston, Keremeos
- Upper Nicola Band: Merritt, Quilchena, Douglas Lake
- Upper Similkameen Indian Band: Hedley, Princeton