Introduction Lesson: siwɬkʷ Water Declaration
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
“The Okanagan Nation has accepted the unique responsibility bestowed upon us by the Creator to serve for all time as protectors of the lands and waters in our territories, so that all living things return to us regenerated. When we take care of the land and water, the land and water takes care of us. This is our law.” Syilx Water Declaration excerpt
This siwɬkʷ Water Declaration communicates the importance of water and responsibilities we have as Syilx people. The importance of water in Syilx communities and governance is related through captikʷł and the natural laws. Syilx governance systems have always sustainably and respectfully managed water.
Syilx Okanagan oral history provides teachings about the past and being in those places reinforces memories, connections to the land, and instills the importance of ceremony. Sacred sites such as those for fasting, praying, medicine preparation, and burial grounds are spread throughout Syilx territory and each has a long held spiritual and physical significance to the Syilx Okanagan people. Children learn from the land, and thus when taken to those places, they learn how to care for the waters.
There are many sacred aquatic areas and systems within the Territory that contribute to the physical, spiritual, and cultural health of the Syilx Okanagan people and sustain all tmixw. Spiritual practices are rooted in the land and waters of our territory. The tmixw and tmxwulaxw are the connecting threads between our ancestors and each new generation. As part of this connection, Syilx Okanagan people recognize water as a sacred entity and family member that connects all life. The relationship to water is embedded in the language, in the bodies, and in the ways of Syilx Okanagan people. Water has the capacity to bring all people together through gatherings, feasts, and ceremonies.
How can you contribute and uphold the Syilx Water Declaration?
- Learn: Read, understand and share the importance of our roles as caretakers of the land and water.
- Share: this declaration with your class, colleagues and community.
- Act: Be mindful of your water consumption and usage – water is to be shared, not something we own.