siwɬkʷ is sacred as the source of all life on the tmxʷulaxʷ

The importance of water in Syilx communities is related through captikʷł and the natural laws. Through culture and language, water is a valued component that serves as a reminder of following protocols for future generations to survive in harmony with all living things. The importance of water is translated through oral narrative that teaching the basic notions of living on the land in a sustainable cycle.

siwlɬkʷ is the nsyilxcən word for water. The meaning comes from (siw) and (ɬkʷ)ˑ

• The (siw) from siwst-to drink (human)
• The (ɬkʷ) from ɬkʷitkʷ-to lap (animal)
• Together the two parts identify the Syilx ethic that the right to water is equal for animals and humans

From intensified droughts to transboundary political negotiations, mounting water challenges in the Okanagan and Columbia River basin cannot be addressed by any single entity, but demand that the diversity of perspectives and values on water be coordinated to create more resilient and dynamic responses to water management. These issues are further intensified by a number of environmental and social stresses that are particularly put on the Headwaters of our watersheds

Water centric planning has been a long standing concept that Syilx people continue to practice as fundamental guiding principles. A place-based stewardship approach has been utilized for many thousands of years to ensure that those with the most knowledge and understanding of siwɬkʷ within a specific region of the Territory are responsible for ensuring that proper measures of respect are carried forward.

The Syilx people envision a sustainable territorial land, culture, and way of life for hundreds of years from now. By managing our land responsibly, we aspire to entrust our future generations to a healthy land base.

See Also

Water

Suggested Resources

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.

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Okanagan Nation Declaration

"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.

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ntytyix Chief Salmon

Importance of ntytyix (Chief Spring Salmon) and the sacred connection to Syilx people.

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kɬlil̕xʷ Spotted Lake

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. 

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