Hello Everyone,
Today marked a historic new beginning for the St'at'imc when a ceremony to celebrate the signing of the Ratification Agreement was held in Xwisten (Bridge River) at the the Administration office. The Signing Ceremony was precluded by an Evening Sweat yesterday evening, which plays an important role in the beginning of any major agreement. Today's agenda began with a PIpe Ceremony this morning in T'it'q'et behind Julianne Hall. After the Pipe Ceremony, everyone travelled to Xwisten to finish the celebration. There was an opening prayer done by Carl Alexander, followed by a feast. Once everyone was full of delicious food, St'at'imc Chief Negotiator Mike Leach welcomed everyone with some opening remarks. Bev Van Ruyven, Deputy CEO and Executive Vice-President of BC Hydro was the first speaker, followed by Hon. Barry Penner, Minister of Aboriginal Relations & Reconciliation, as well as the Chief Negotiators from both BC Hydro, and the St'at'imc Chiefs Council respectively. The day ended with some singing and drumming followed by a closing prayer. The mood was great, and everyone is looking forward to moving from 'talking' to 'doing,' as we begin the next stage in this exciting process: the community information sessions! -Juli
