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#200-355 Yellowhead Hwy.Kamloops B.C. V2H 1H1Phone: (250)828-9700

Fax: (250)372-8833

Welcome

The Tk’emlúps te Secwepemc, formally known as the Kamloops Indian Band, was established in 1862 under the direction of Governor James Douglas. At one time the Secwepemc people occupied one large traditional territory covering approximately 145,000 square kilometers. In 1811, after European contact, the colonial government divided the Secwepemc people into 17 distinct groups with specific parcels of land designated to each.

The word “Tk’emlúps” (tik-kumm-loops) means “where the rivers meet” and for centuries has been the home of the Tk’emlupsemc --the ‘people of the confluence.

Tk’emlύps Reserve # 1 is the largest reserve in British Columbia and has traditionally held great economic importance for our Secwepemc Nation as it is the hub of historical traffic and trade routes. Approximately 1,100 members strong, it is one of 17 Secwepemc Nation Bands. Tk’emlύps is regarded as one of the most progressive First Nations in Canada.

“Where the Rivers Meet”Mission Statement

To provide leadership, services, and opportunities to our community by focusing on our people, land, resources organizational structure and asserting jurisdiction.

TteS will accomplish this by ensuring all stakeholders accept individual and collective responsibility and accountability with a focused, supportive approach to service delivery.

Vision Statement

Guided by our ancestors, we, the Tk’emlupsemc ne Secwepemcul’ecw are proud caretakers who strive to secure and protect our lands and exercise our rights for the greatest good for

our people, for future generations

Values Statement

With Teamwork we create action and pride

2 Tk’emlúps te Secwepemc

History

Welcome

History

Chief Louis, born in 1828, was the Tk’emlúps Indian Band Chief (Kukpi7)from 1855 until his death in 1915.

Petit Louis or Hli Kleh Kan, was adominant figure in the development of the Kamloops region and the construction of the St. Joseph’s Church.

He was most recognized as one of the most distinguished chiefs in the interior having made several trips to Ottawa in an attempt to negotiate more land for his people. On one occasion, Chief Louis traveled to England to plead his case in front of Queen Victoria.

His remarkable leadship did much to improve the oppressed condition of his people during the critical period of white settlement. A painted portrait of Chief Louis hangs in the current Chief’s office.

Secwepemctsin is the language of the Secwepemc people

Secwepemctsin contains the cultural, ecological, andhistorical knowledge which includes: values, beliefs, rituals, songs, stories, social & political structures and spirituality of the people. The Secwepemc view all aspects of their knowledge, including language, as vitally linked to the land. This knowledge, passed down to the next generations orally, contained the teachings necessary for maintenance of Secwepemc culture and identity.

Interior Chiefs {1860}Homestead

Tk’emlúps te Secwepemc 3

Chief and Council

In accordance with the Tk’emlúps te Secwepemc custom election regulations, a general band meet-ing is held every three years to select one Chief and a Council to guide the community’s direction and interests. Members of the Tk’emlups te Secwepemc are nominated by community members and then nominees choose whether or not to run for Chief and/or Council. Each elected official is appointed to one primary portfolio, one secondary portfolio and a back-up. Currently, there is one Chief and a Council of seven members. The Chief and Council work to ensure the best interests of the band membership as well as provide leadership and decision making.

Tk’emlúps Indian Band Chief and Council: (From left to right) Rosanne Casimir, Connie Leonard, Fred Seymour, Chief Shane Gottfriedson, George Casimir, Evelyn Camille, Jeanette Jules and Dolan Paul.


Chief and Council

Chief and Council

Chief and Council

Councillor Evelyn CamilleHousing, Education, IRSS, CRM

Councillor Fred SeymourPlanning and Engineering,Business Development, Shared Services

Councillor Jeanette JulesCultural Resource Management, Shared Services, Lands

Councillor Connie LeonardShared Services, Lands, Housing

Councillor George CasimirBusiness Develpoment,Planning and Engineering,Shared Services

Councillor Rosanne CasimirLands, Housing, Business Development

Councillor Dolan PaulEducation, CRM, Planning and Engineering

Chief Shane Gottfriedson

Re-elected in December 2009, Chief Shane Gottfriedson is now serving his 3rd term as Chief of the Tk’emlúps te Secwepemc.

A former Ironworker with a strong entrepreneurial inclination, Shane Gottfriedson is the Tk’emlúps te Secwepemc’s 12th Chief.

He diligently seeks to create economic opportunities to benefit Tk’emlúps people in a meaningful, sustainable economic environment that creates jobs and partnerships that provide economic growth for our region.


Departments and Services

The Tk’emlúps te Secwepemc Band employs approximately 125 people and up to 150 people in the summer months. Of these, more than 70% are Band members -- a proud tribute to the community’s concentrated effort to build capacity and provide training opportunities for our people. Each department is commited to providing professional and effecient attention to the programs and services it is responsible for.

Administration

The Administration department is one of the organizations largestdepartments. The administration department is made up of reception, executive assistants, secretaries, recording secrataries and filing. This deparment makes sure that the organization runs as smoothly and efficiently as possible.

Business Development

The Business Development department looks to develop new business/economic developments on the Tk’emlúps te Secwepemc Reserve. The Tk’emlúps Indian Band is interested in forming joint venture investment partnerships related to commercial, industrial and residential development opportunities, as well as entertaining land lease tenant opportunities. They look to establish employment and business opportunities for Band members and are economically diversified. The department head is Niel Leonard and the Ec. Dev. officer is Robert Corman. For more info call (250)828-9758.

Cultural Resource Management

The Cultural Resource Management department provides a range of services aimed at developming the long-term stability and sustainability of the natural resources within TteS traditional territiry. Forests, watersheds, fish, wild-life, archeology and culturally-significant sites and language curriculum all fall under the mandate of CRM., Department Head is Linda Thomas. For more info call (250)314-1586.

Education

The Education department administers the education funding recieved each year from Indian Northern Affairs Canada (INAC). They also develop policies and guidelines for the Band so members recieve fair and equitable treatment. They are guided by the philosophy that education is a privelege gained through responsibility. The department head is Diena Jules. For more information on education, funding or scholarships call (250)828-9721.

Finanace

The Finance department manages the financial aspects of the band including: budgeting, audits, accounts receivable, accounts payable, administration of transfers, and payroll. The deparment head is financial controller (CFO) Andrina Benazic and their is also a finance manager, two intermediate accountants, accountants for accounts payable and receivable, payroll clerks and a collections officer.





Housing

The Housing department works to make sure that there is adequate on reserve housing for Band members, an issue plagueing many First Nations people. The deparment looks after elders homes, renovations, housingdevelopment, first time infrastructure and works closely with INAC on NORHA, RRAP and HASI projects. The housing department head is Dan Rodgers. For more information call (250)828-9737.

Human Resources

The Human Resources department aspires to provide a comprehensive human resource function to the TteS and its entities in support of the organizational strategic plan. The HR department consists of an HR manager, hr coordinator, hr assistant and the Occupational Health and Satety Officer. Support is provided in areas of recruitment and selection, employee relations, staff evalutation, wellness and organizational strategic planning. The HR department head is David Leroux. For more info call (250)372-9847.

Lands, Leasing and Taxation

The Lands, Leasing and Taxation department manages leasing, and land administration under the bands delegation of authority, sections (53)1 and 60 of the Indian Act. The department is also responsible for property taxation, building, and the development approval process. The department head is lands administrator Freda Jules. For more information call (250)314-1539.

Social Development

The Social Development department offers a broad range of services to community members. The services range from income assistance, homemaking for the elderly and disabled residents, community recreation, counselling, and provides a community library. The department also runs programs for youth, such as a youth group, counselling, and a variety of personal growth workshops. This department also funds, coordinates and delivers community events -- such as the community picnic, health fair and woman’s retreat. Sandra Seymour is the S.D. department head.

Planning and Engineering

The Planning and Engineering department oversees the development of new capital and infrustructure projects. It is responsible for the management of the Tk’emlupsemc water treatment plant and all band maintenance services which include road building and maintenance, snow removal, garbage pick-up, grounds up-keep as well as security, janitorial and by-law services. The department head is Jim Nastrom.


Cultural Education

Tk’emlúps te Secwepemc Band members recognize that education is the fundamental key to continued survival and success. We seek to empower our youth through education and social programs, and enhance young spirits by encorporating our traditions and culture into every program. The Band has gone to great lengths to ensure that proper education and training opportunities are available to Band members to help ensure prominant futures for the people of Tk’emlúps.

Sk’elep School of Excellence-

The Sk’elep Elementary School is one of the largest First Nations schools in B.C

The school offers elementary grades (full time)kindergarten to grade seven, with a vision of combining tradition with the tactics of modern education in order to provide our children with an encompassing future.

We believe the union of Aboriginal tradition and academic excellence can live in one house, in harmony, for the betterment of all. The future of holistic native education lives here in this house, our house.

Little Fawn Nursary-

Little Fawn Nursary offers quality care for children ages 3-5. Little Fawn helps prepare children for the transition to kindergarten with programs that encourage early social and cognitive development and cultural pride. For more about Little Fawn Nursary call (250) 828-9734.

Little Fawn Daycare-

Established in 1980, Little Fawn Daycare is a fully licensed facility providing a safe and confortable environment for children aged three months to 12 years. Traditional drumming, singing, crafts, outings, hiking adventures and activities at the Pow-Wow grounds help the children become familiar with Secwepemc language and culture. Fore more information on the daycare contact Rosemary Casimir at (250)828-9767.


Learning Opportunities

Cultural Education

Learning Opportunities

TteS is commited to supporting quality education programs for all of our students from pre-school through adulthood. The following initiatives, combined with a growing awareness of the life-long value of education, help to account for the significant increase in the number of students enrolled in, and successfully completing, secondary and post-secondary programs. The Band is also currently working on developing more educational opportunites for our people, specifically in the area of trades and technology.

After School Tutoring Program -

The after school tutoring program runs weekly at the Full Circle Youth Cen-tre. A private tutor works with the students if they need assistance with their school work, and the Centre provides a comfortable place forstudents to get their work done.

Grad Incentive Program -

The grad incentive program provides high school students with an incentive to thrive during their high school careers through graduation. The program offers graduating students an incentive of $250 for completing their studies, whilst providing a copy of their high school transcripts. The program is a great way to show the youth that the Band is supporting their education.

Youth Summer Employment Program-

The Summer Employment Program hires approximately 20 students a summer who work in TIB departments job shadowing. There they learn how to work in a realistic job setting and find an area of specific interest.

There are also training programs offered to the youth so that when they do reach their designated job post they will have some work skills. The training for the program starts in mid April and the working starts at the end of June. The program was started in 2007 and will hopefully continue into the future. It creates work ethic, confidence and skills that are a stepping stone to success. Students leave at the end of the summer with a sense of pride and accomplishment.

Early Childhood Education and Nutrition Course -

This is a three week course offered through NVIT which has been condensed into six days put on through the Education Department and NVIT. This is to provide training to those working in or who wish to work in early childhood education. This is one of the core courses that is necessary to work in the childcare facility. Individuals who complete the course receive a certificate. The Education Dept. is looking to put on more courses like this one in the future.

Summer Camps-

Summer camps are a great learning opportunity for both those attending camp, and those working the camps. The Band offers Tkeel Stem Summer Camp and the Mad Science Program, both are great programs that teach kids that learning can be fun. Each summer the camps are filled with the youth and instructed by camp councillors who are Band members. The camps provide an exceptional platform for learning while also providing summer employment to Band members.


Services & Programs

The Tk’emlúps Social Development Department offers a long list of services and programs available to their members. Throughout the year they also put on a number of community events, workshops and courses.

Recreation and Sponsorship - To encourage our mem-bers to explore a variety of recreational opportunities, TteS provides financial assistance to help provide op-portunities to participate in local athletics and perform-ing arts programs.

TteS recently hired a Recreation Coordinator to help provide a greater variety of opportunities formembership at little to no cost.

Opportunities available include - First Nations snowboard team, cross country skiing, speed skating, curling, First Nations Jr. golf academy, canoe camp, and lacrosse while also sponsoring youth to participate in everything from hockey to karate. The Social Develop-ment Dept. is a large sponsor of the Tk’emlups Cup hockey tournament, bringing First Nations youth from across North America together.

TteS Youth Group - The Youth Group was formed with the intention of helping young people better understand and cope with the pressures faced by First Nations youth today. The youth group meets to share in a wide variety of leisure, life skills and social experienc-es. The youth choose topics they are interested in and help with the planning and fundraising. The Full Circle Youth Centre was developed as a meeting place and a spot for youth to come and feel comfortable.

Events - The Social Development Department puts on numerous events throughout the year including but not limited to -- The annual women’s retreat, the elders retreat, monthly elders luncheons, elders trips, a health and wellness conference, community picnic, Sun Run training group, family fun days at various locations and numerous workshops - such as meat canning, bannock making, drinking and driving awareness and more...


Cultural Heritage

Services & Programs

Cultural HeritageSecwepemc Museum and Heritage Park

The Tk’emlups Indian Band owns and operates its very own Museum and Heritage Park showcasing attractive museum exhibits which offerinsight into the lifestyle and culture of the Secwepemc people. Museum displays incorporate the oral history and legends of the Secwepemc people, along with historical photographs, illustrations and artifacts.

Cultural displays extend in a 5 hectare Heritage Park located on the banks of the South Thompson River. More than a km of trails lead visitors through the archeological remains of a 2000 year old Shuswap winter village site and unique ethnobotanical gardens featuring important markers about traditional plant use. The village features four reconstructed winter pit houses, summer tule mat lodges and various other structures.

Summer HoursJune 15th. to Labour Day WeekendSeven days per week 8:30 am to 4:30 pmClosed Statutory Holidays.

Winter HoursLabour Day to June 15th.Monday to Friday 8:30 am to 4:30 pmClosed weekends and Statutory Holidays.


Self Governing Initiatives

Tk’emlúps te Secwepemc has established a number of initiatives aimed at achieving self-sufficiency and independence. Bylaws to regulate the management of resources and the administration of operations direct legislation at the community level serve as important cornerstones to self-government. Ttes is one of the most self reliant Bands in all of Canada and has worked hard to take the steps necessary to achieve this.

Taxation Bylaws -

When the TteS established the Mt. Paul Industrial Park in the 60’s the land was conditionally surrendered under section 37 of the Indian Act. Further, the province had the right to collect taxes from third party interests. In 1986, through the Kamloops Amendment, the Indian Act was amended allowing First Nations to implement bylaws, assert jurisdiction, and levy taxes and other fees on designated lands. In 1991, the Band collected property taxes from leasehold interests for the first time.

In addition to property taxation, the Band implemented the Kamloops Indian Band Sales Tax (KIBST) on liquor, toboacco, and fuel purchases on our reserve lands. The KIBST is applicible to the goods and services tax portion, and to both status and non-status persons.

Douglas Reserve Initiative (DRI) -

The Tk’emlúps te Secwepemc is one of 17 Bands within the Secwepemc Nation. The Specific Claim of the TteS rises from the facts that our Secwepemc people occupied and controlled these lands prior to European contact. After contact, the settlers created their own form of Gov-ernment and one of the things they did was to create the Band system and a reserve system for our people. The peoples occupying the Kamloops area were placed onto a list and an area of land was set aside for their use and benefit. The original TteS reserve was 136,200 acres in size.

Several years later, our reserve lands were reduced without the consent of the people or without compensation. The TteS never accepted this reduction and in fact vigorously protested it until 1927 when the government adopted laws to prevent the band and other First Nations from actively pursuing land claims. More than 140 years have passed since our reserve was cut-off. Our band members have never given up hope that one

day the provincial and federal governments would return these lands to the reserve as originally intended.

We have followed the process and policies that the government has developed to try and resolve our specific land claim. Not surprisingly, these processes have not been successful or productive. Our Band feels that it’s time to start thinking outside the box, that is, take the initiative to put forward a proposal, from our own people, that will show/illuminate the path that will need to be taken in order for this matter to be put to rest.

The Tk’emlúps te Secwepemc has filed a claim in British Columbia Supreme Court to lands that were set apart as a reserve for them under the administration of Governor James Douglas in 1862. The land, referred to as the “Douglas Reserve”, is adjacent to the Tk’emlúps Band’s current main reserve located along the North and South Thompson Rivers.

In the Statement of Claim, filed December 17, 2009, the Tk’emlúps are asking the Court to declare that crown lands within the claim area are lawfully reserve lands belonging to the Tk’emlúps. They are not asking the court to return privately held lands within the Douglas Reserve but instead are asking for a declaration that Canada and the Province have a duty to make reasonable efforts to acquire those lands for the Tk’emlúps from willing sellers. The Tk’emlúps also seek damages from the Crown for the loss of these lands.The Tk’emlúps have been seeking to resolve this long-standing claim through negotiation in Canada’s Specific Claims process for over two decades but Canada will not negotiate the claim and the Province is not part of the Specific Claims pro-cess. They have therefore decided to take the claim to court.The claim has no effect on the existing Tk’emlúps reserve or any lease-hold interests held by others in the existing reserve. Nor will the case have any effect on the business operations of the Tk’emlúps. This is a long process that our people hope to see resolved in the near future.





Cultural Bylaws-

Several bylaws are in effect to address environmental, eco-logical and cultural concerns. One of these is the Heritage Protection bylaw. This bylaw safeguards the Band’s tradition-al use areas, its sacred spiritual and culturally-significant sites and other areas of historical importace.

Wildlife Conservation Ordinance-

To ensure that members manage wildlife within their territory in a responsible manner, TteS enacted the Wildlife Conser-vation Ordinance. This document states that hunting, fishing, trapping and tak-ing of wildlife is permitted soley for the purpose of food, clothing, ceremonial or religious purposes. If wildlife is killed, it is an offence to leave edible parts.

Currently-significant species are also protected under this ordinance. It is strictly prohibited to hunt, except as specifically identified and with permission of Chief and Council, black bears, grizzly bears, golden eagle, bald eagle, burrowing owl, white pelican, big horn sheep, elk, swan, blue heron, wolf and badger. In the interest of public safety the ordinance also states that no person shall hunt in a manner or vacinity that will endanger the public.

RCMP Tk’emlúps Detachment-

In 1999, the Federal and Provincial governments and three Secwepemc communities signed a tripartite agreement with the RCMP. The agreement recognizes the need for aboriginal involvement and culturally-responsive policing services on reserve.

Policing services are provided to TteS, Wispering Pines, Clinton and Skeetchestn. As part of the agreement the datchment was built on TteS land. The RCMP First Nations community’s individual bylaws established for prevention of crime and the maintanence of peace and order.


Economic Development

MINING - New Gold Partnership

The Tk’emlύps Indian Band, along with the Skeetchetsn Indian Band, signed a historic Mining and Minerals Agreement with the Province of British Columbia.

In 2008, New Gold Inc. and this Kamloops Division of the Secwepemc Nation, jointly signed a Participation Agreement relating to New Gold’s Afton Mine Project.

This agreement represents a first step towards co-management of an important resource on our Territory. Mining and Minerals have always played an important role in our economy so we want to continue to be a major player in the management of the resource and to be a major player in the industry.”

- Chief Shane Gottfriedson

The purpose of the Participation Agreement is to establish a co-operative and mutually beneficial relationship between the participating First Nations and New Gold with respect to the Project and will provide a long-term framework for on-going communication, collaboration and cooperation.

The Agreement will provide the Kamloops Division with more diverse economic opportunities along with other meaningful social and spin off benefits, including employment, education, training and business opportunities.

“We believe that the agreement we have signed with the Kamloops Division is a milestone.. .to ensure that the Project is developed in an environmentally and culturally sustainable manner, recognizing the value that the First Nations place on the cultural, spiritual and historic heritage of the land.”

Mr. Cliff Davis, President and CEO of New Gold

FORESTRY

Tk’emlύps Forestry Development Corporation is working to generate higher and better value added returns from the Band’s timber resources through strategic processing and marketing of timber.

FORESTRY EXPERIENCE

* Successful management of a woodlot in the Kamloops Forest District

* Successful management of a fire salvage license from “Firestorm 2003”

* Jointly managed small wood license specific to commercial thinning of

suppressed Douglas Fir stands

* Currently hold a non-replaceable forest license (54,540 m3 annually for 5

years) for Mountain Pine Beetle Salvage operations in the Interior

* An additional license in process for approximately 42,000 m3 of beetle

uplift volume

The TteS was honoured with the CANDO (Council for the Advancement of Native Development Officers) Award as the 2008 Community Economic Developer of the Year.

Since 1995, the CANDO Economic Developer of the Year was created to recognize and promote recent or long-standing Aboriginal economic development initiatives throughout Canada.

The Tk’emlúps te Secwepemc has been recognized as one of the most economicallyprogressive bands in Canada, taking on large economic undertakings, lease agreements and partnerships.





REAL ESTATE

Sun Rivers Golf Resort Community - In 1995, the Tk’emlύps Indian Band made an important economic development decision and approved the 460 acre lease to Sun Rivers Development Corporation

Today, this prime parcel of real estate overlooks the City of Kamloops and South Thompson River and is Canada’s first all geo-thermal golf\residential community.

Experts consider the head lease agreement to be one of the most comprehensive and most secure of its time.

RETAIL & SERVICES

Tk’emlύps Petroleum Gas BarEnjoy a full-service gas station and convenience store at the corner of East Shuswap Rd and Highway No. 5. TIB completed this project as one of the first successful economic revenue development strategies in 2004.

Tk’emlύps Car WashProud to be “Beyond Green” certified through Ecolab’s Blue Coral program, the Tk’emlύps Car Wash features 1 touchless automatic and 6 self-serve

wash bays.

Water Treatment PlantSince 1999, the Water Treatment Plant has provided our community members with the best quality, portable water that far exceeds the Canadian water standards.

The plant’s capacity more than meets the needs of our growing residential community, as well as those of Mount Paul Industrial Park, the development along the Halston Road Connector, and the Sun Rivers Golf Resort Community.

As the owner of over 33,000 acres of multi-use and developable land, the Tk’emlύps Indian Band is the largest reserve in British Columbia. From highway commercial sites to high density residential neighbourhoods, manufacturing to agriculture to tourism, the potential opportunities with the Tk’emlύps Indian Band are unlimited.

The Band is currently developing the 90 acre Chief Louie Landing site into a mixed use business and residential park. Other large projects include a Waste Water Treatment Plant and a contract with Rocky Mountain Rail Tours as a cultural stop on their cross B.C. bus tours. The Wastewater treatment plant broke ground in 2010 and will hopefully be completed and operational by 2012.

Other Band developments currently in planning: Seven Mile Industrial Park - a 220 acre warehouse and light industrial park and a 20 acre high-density residential waterfront development.

LOOKING TO THE FUTURE


Our Elders

The Tk’emlúps te Secwepemc has more than 70 Elders over the age of 60 living on and off the Reserve. Our Elders and their wisdom, advice and guidance -- play an integral part in the administration, policies and direction of the Band. We make sure to honour our elders with the utmost respect and pay tribute to them through a number of programs and services.

Programs and Services -

Supporting our Elders is a priority among our people. There are many programs available to help assist Elders living on-reserve. Services such as yard and lawn maintenance, seed dollors for gardens, housing renovations and a heatingallowance.

On the first Friday of every month themembership department, which is part of our Social Development department, holds aluncheon for the elders.

As a group, our Elders are given the opportunity to take one trip per year to a destination of their choice. In the past couple of years the Elders have visited Las Vegas and Hawaii. Pictures seen here were taken on the Elders trip to Hawaii.

Many of the Elders also take part in the annual Elders Gathering, held on a different reserve each year. This is an enjoyable event where they get the opportunity to have fun with Elders from all over the province and take part in traditional activities.

The Chief and Council also hold an annual Christmas celebration to honour the Elders with a meal and Christmas gifts. Gifts are also sent to those Elders living off reserve.

Aboriginal Heroes Book -

To commemorate the lives and memories of our Elders the Cultural Resource Department published the Aboriginal Heroes Book. Itrecognizes the outstanding life achievements of our most senior members ensuring theirlegacies will not be forgotten.

Featured is Mildred Gottfriedson, honoured as B.C. and Canadian mother of the year in 1963 and 64’ respectively. In 77’, Mildred was also the first Aboriginal person in Canada to be awarded the order of Canada medal. Other heroes includeRobert LeCamp, the first Band member to graduate from a post secondary institution and George Leonard, a founding member of the Indian Friendship Society.


Events and Attractions

Our Elders

Events and AttractionsKamloopa Pow Wow -

The Kamloopa Pow Wow attracts more than 1,200 dancers, drummers and artists -- and up to 20,000 spectators through the enormous three day event in August. Its considered to be the largest little Pow Wow in the west and has been running more than 30 years.

Although the Kamloopa Pow Wow was initiated by the TteS, more than 30 North American Bands take part each year. The celebration fills the valley from morning to midnight and beyond with the sounds of drums, songs, dancing and laughter.

TteS displayed respect to the revival of First Nations culture, heritage, traditions and language by building the finest outdoor Pow Wow facility in North America. The Kamloopa Pow Wow Arbor, designed by a Kamloops Band member, is thelargest free standing log structure in North America. It incorporates Shuswap design and has deepspiritual meaning for the Secwepemc people. The Kamloopa Pow Wow is the biggest event of the year for the TteS and is the main attraction of the summer.

St. Josephs Church -

St. Josephs Church, an idea put foward and brought to fruition by Tk’emlups’ first Kukpi7, Chief Louis, is the oldest church in the Kamloops area. It has served as a regional landmark for more than one and a half centuries. St. Josephs was built in the mid-1840’s and was later restored and expanded in 1985 with the aid of the B.C. Heritage Trust Fund award. The church plays a huge role in the history of the Tk’emlups Indian Band and is a place many go to remember. TteS holds its standing-room-only Remembrance Day Ceremony at St. Josephs Church every year.


HIstoric Information

The TteS Flag

This flag is the “Flag of the People” which displays the Tk’emlúps te Secwepemc code of arms. In the traditional fashion of heredity, this flag, proportioned in the same units as the Flag of the Chief, uses the entire design on the circular shield and rebalances the flag to fill the horizontal rectangular shape. The dominant white and red colors are the traditional colors of theKamloops people.The red and black arms of the cross represent the red path of the spirit and the black path of men. It also is symbolic of the two rivers which flow through the Kamloops lands. The name Tk’emlups means where the rivers meet.The copper circle in the flag represents the collective wealth of the people and the gifts of Chiefs and elders over generations.The hundreds of generations of settlement by the Kamloops people on the great heritage site at the river’s edge is symbolized by the winter lodge set on the gold circle.In the quadrants the fawn and the salmon in red symbolize the traditional foods of the people and the bounty of the earth and the obligation of people to be good stewards of this bounty.

This flag is a great symbol of the Tk’emlups nation.

The Eagle Staff

The physical aspects of the eagle staff includes a long, red, felt-like rectangular cloth attached typically to a cedar or white pine pole four to seven feet in length (other wood is used depending on location). Some are made from trees struck by lightning. Often they will contain 13 eagle feathers, one representing each calendar moon. The TteS staff has an eagle head at the top of it; no two staffs are the same and eachcarries different teachings and colors. There are many types of eagle staffs: veteran’s staffs, community staffs, personal staffs, clan staffs, healing staffs and language staffs. Someone makes eagle staff when they have a vision or dream.

Spiritual aspects of eagle staff includes the eagle feathers, which contain the spirits of eagles. Eagles can communicate with the Creator. There is a teaching that the eagle feather was given to us to help us pray to the creator. People make tobacco offerings to eagle staffs to help answer their prayers. Staff carriers have to think positive and be strong, the spirits of the staffs listen. One must always carry these living spirits with honor and respect

When carrying an eagle staff, any vision or instinct an eagle staff carrier may have should be followed. This means a person must be in a good frame of mind. No mind altering substances should be in an eagle staff carrier’s body in order to have true thoughts. Woman on their moon should not touch the staff or the eagle staff carrier as their body is cleansing. An eagle staff carrier should not be political when carrying the staff. An eagle staff carrier at a tribal council meeting stomped his eagle staff several times when he disagreed with something that was being said and later said the creator made him do it. Was it the creator or his own personal opinion? Carriers must maintain a neutral position when carrying the staff as they carry the staff for their people and our people have different opinions.

Eagle feathers are found or may be given to the eagle staff carrier. Eagle staff carriers are responsible for praying for their staff and offerings. They are also taught not to leave their staff unattended. If they must go somewhere they need to give tobacco to a veteran to watch over their staff. The time of day the eagle staffs should be out is only when the eagle comes (daytime not night).


Changes over time

HIstoric Information

Changes over time


TK’Emlups te Secwepemc“With Teamwork we create action and Pride”

Documents

Public Relations brochure