Latest news with #Gitxsan
Associated Press
4 days ago
- General
- Associated Press
Siila Watt-Cloutier Offers Radical Hope in a New Podcast Series
VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA, CANADA, July 3, 2025 / / -- The Pacific Institute for Climate Solutions (PICS) at the University of Victoria is proud to present A Radical Act of Hope, a new podcast featuring the story of Inuk climate and human rights advocate Siila (Sheila) Watt-Cloutier, PICS' inaugural Indigenous Climate Fellow. This limited series podcast explores the life, work, and wisdom of one of the world's leading voices on climate change, human rights, and Indigenous ways of knowing and being. Watt-Cloutier calls her approach to climate advocacy 'conscious leadership', which she developed through her experience as an Inuk woman rooted in tradition and culture, and refined as she became a global thought leader on environmental issues and climate change. 'Indigenous wisdom is the medicine the world needs,' says Watt-Cloutier. 'Our values, experience, and relationship to the natural world help us to imagine and tell a different story for humanity and the planet, which can guide us towards a more sustainable and equitable future for all,' she says. The podcast blends memoir and advocacy, showing how lived experience can be a powerful tool for both personal transformation and policy change. It is hosted by Watt-Cloutier, along with PICS Executive Director Ian Mauro, her longtime colleague and friend, and Gitxsan and Cree-Métis climate researcher Janna Wale, PICS' Indigenous research and partnerships lead. 'Siila Watt-Cloutier's pioneering work to connect climate change and human rights changed the way the world thinks about and addresses climate change; her message comes from the Arctic and has global impact,' says PICS Executive Director Ian Mauro. 'In this podcast, we take a deep dive into Siila's leadership, how it developed, and how it can be a model for current and future generations.' Over its four episodes, the trio of hosts are joined by Indigenous women leaders and changemakers Leena Evic, Nicole Redvers, and Aleqa Hammond. Together, they discuss climate conscious leadership as Watt-Cloutier models it — an approach that prioritizes consensus, intergenerational wisdom, and long-term stewardship. Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, the PICS website, or wherever you listen to podcasts. 'Working alongside Siila Watt-Cloutier and the PICS team to bring this story to life has been one of the most impactful projects of my career. Siila's voice is a beacon — clear, grounded, and profoundly needed in today's world. This podcast is more than a series — it's a movement built on respect, wisdom, and the power of storytelling to change hearts and minds.' — Jennifer Smith, President & CEO, Everything Podcasts A Radical Act of Hope is produced by the Pacific Institute for Climate Solutions and Everything Podcasts, with support from The Gordon Foundation and the University of Victoria. Watt-Cloutier's work with PICS, including the podcast, supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically #3 (Good Health and Well-Being), #5 (Gender Equality), #10 (Reduced Inequalities), and #13 (Climate Action). Learn more about the SDGs at UVic. The Pacific Institute for Climate Solutions (PICS) catalyzes and mobilizes research, partnerships, and knowledge that generate climate action. PICS is hosted and led by the University of Victoria (UVic) in collaboration with Simon Fraser University, the University of British Columbia, and the University of Northern British Columbia. Media contacts: Cindy MacDougall (PICS Communications) at 250-853-3626 or [email protected] About the University of Victoria The University of Victoria is a leading research-intensive institution, offering transformative, hands-on learning opportunities to more than 22,000 students on the beautiful coast of British Columbia. As a hub of groundbreaking research, UVic faculty, staff and students are making a significant impact on issues addressing challenges that matter to people, places and the planet. UVic consistently publishes a higher proportion of research based on international collaborations than any other university in North America. Our commitment to advancing climate action, addressing social determinants of health, and supporting Indigenous reconciliation and revitalization is making a difference—from scientific and business breakthroughs to cultural and creative achievements. About Everything Podcasts Launched in 2019, Everything Podcasts delivers innovative, creative, and award-winning audio production and global distribution. It features strategic planning infused by research, and partnerships designed to launch, grow, and accelerate the expansion of content across multiple platforms. Everything Podcasts is a world-class podcast production and media company dedicated to enabling businesses to harness the power of podcasting for communication, engagement, and growth. Everything Podcasts offers comprehensive podcasting solutions and strategies that empower brands to connect with their audience in a meaningful and memorable way. Led by Founder & CEO Jennifer Smith, and fueled by their team of passionate storytellers and award-winning media experts, Everything Podcasts brings innovation and expertise to a new media frontier. Everything Podcasts is also the recipient of numerous accolades including 2023's Quill Award for Best Podcast Agency, Most Creative Branded Podcast and Best B2B Branded Podcast. And the 2024 Quill Awards for Most Creative Branded Podcast, Best Business Podcast, Best News Podcast, Best Interview Podcast, and Best Medical Podcast. Plus, the bronze Circle of Excellence from the Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE) for Podcasts (Occasional) and the gold 2024 Prix d'Excellence from the Canadian Council Advancement of Education (CCAE) for Best Podcast. Media Contact: Theodora Jean Coldwater Communications Inc. [email protected] Jennifer Smith Everything Podcasts +1 604-377-7922 [email protected] Visit us on social media: YouTube LinkedIn Instagram Facebook Bluesky X Legal Disclaimer: EIN Presswire provides this news content 'as is' without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the author above.
The Province
5 days ago
- Politics
- The Province
On Canada Day, Gitxsan Nation reflects on responsible land development
A new campaign to highlight principles of traditional Gitxsan Ayook (laws) aims to open opportunities for dialogue as controversial pipeline project gets green light to move ahead without environmental assessments Chief Simoogit Geel at her home in Vancouver. A new campaign to highlight principles of traditional Gitxsan Ayook (laws) aims to open opportunities for dialogue after a controversial pipeline project got a green light to move ahead without additional environmental assessments. Photo by Arlen Redekop / PNG On July 1, Gitxsan hereditary Chief Simoogit Geel is thinking about the land, and about Ayook , the Gitxsan system of laws governing their people's relationship with each other and with the land. This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. THIS CONTENT IS RESERVED FOR SUBSCRIBERS ONLY Subscribe now to read the latest news in your city and across Canada. Exclusive articles by top sports columnists Patrick Johnston, Ben Kuzma, J.J. Abrams and others. Plus, Canucks Report, Sports and Headline News newsletters and events. Unlimited online access to The Province and 15 news sites with one account. The Province ePaper, an electronic replica of the print edition to view on any device, share and comment on. Daily puzzles and comics, including the New York Times Crossword. Support local journalism. SUBSCRIBE TO UNLOCK MORE ARTICLES Subscribe now to read the latest news in your city and across Canada. Exclusive articles by top sports columnists Patrick Johnston, Ben Kuzma, J.J. Abrams and others. Plus, Canucks Report, Sports and Headline News newsletters and events. Unlimited online access to The Province and 15 news sites with one account. The Province ePaper, an electronic replica of the print edition to view on any device, share and comment on. Daily puzzles and comics, including the New York Times Crossword. Support local journalism. REGISTER / SIGN IN TO UNLOCK MORE ARTICLES Create an account or sign in to continue with your reading experience. Access articles from across Canada with one account. Share your thoughts and join the conversation in the comments. Enjoy additional articles per month. Get email updates from your favourite authors. THIS ARTICLE IS FREE TO READ REGISTER TO UNLOCK. Create an account or sign in to continue with your reading experience. Access articles from across Canada with one account Share your thoughts and join the conversation in the comments Enjoy additional articles per month Get email updates from your favourite authors The chief, also known as Catherine Blackstock, is thinking about the health of her Wilp, or house, and the salmon, the forests, the minerals and wildlife on her nation's ancestral territories. She is also thinking of the recent provincial decision to allow the Prince Rupert Gas Transmission pipeline to go ahead without renewing its expired environmental certificate or requiring consultation with First Nations. The proposed pipeline would transport natural gas from northeastern B.C. to a liquefied natural gas facility on the west coast, cutting through 50 kilometres of Gitanyow territory. Although an agreement with the Gitxsan nations has been in place since 2013, the American-backed project has raised controversy and legal challenges over its environmental impact. Essential reading for hockey fans who eat, sleep, Canucks, repeat. By signing up you consent to receive the above newsletter from Postmedia Network Inc. Please try again This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. Its 11-year-old environmental certificate expired last fall. On June 10, the Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs, led by Grand Chief Philip Stewart, condemned the decision to move the pipeline ahead without engaging in consultation: 'Once again, it feels like we are headed into a long, hot summer.' 'We don't want to see a repeat of what happened with the Wet'suwet'en, with the armed police invading their pointing guns at people,' said Geel. 'No injunctions.' By respecting the traditional process of Ayook , and engaging in dialogue with the Gitxsan, Geel believes that could be avoided. 'We want to work on things as they come up,' said Geel. In 2024, Gitxsan hereditary chiefs called for the resignation of B.C. Supreme Court Chief Justice Leonard Marchand Jr., for allowing industries to use B.C. courts to obtain injunctions that lead to enforcement by the RCMP on Gitxsan territory. This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. Geel, and 11 other hereditary Gitxsan chiefs launched an awareness campaign this week to highlight traditional Gitxsan Ayook, or laws, and their essential role in guiding responsible land development and economic growth on Gitxsan Laxyip, or traditional land. The Gitxsan Nation covers about 35,000 square kilometres in northwestern B.C. including the Hazelton area in the watersheds of the upper Skeena and Nass River region. Its communities include the Kispiox, Glen Vowell, Kitwanga, Kitwankool and Gitsegukla. 'As a hereditary chief, I have a responsibility to take care of the land. We have our own system. We have our own laws,' said Geel. 'The industries are pretty good and knowledgeable about knowing who they should come to, and who they should talk to, but we need more respect from the government,' said Geel. This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. The B.C. NDP's new fast-track law, which gives the provincial government broad power to override regulatory hurdles, has raised concerns. 'We still stand by our authority,' said Geel. ' You can't push something through without us.' While the original pipeline agreement is still in place, Geel said it needs to be revisited since so much time has passed. 'We do have to consider there have to be potential impacts and turn over every stone to address any concerns.' Respect for the Gitxsan traditions and culture means conversations with each of the wilps, or house groups, of the nation, each of which holds the responsibility of preserving the sanctity and safety of their traditional territories. 'We are matrilineal, so how you receive your lineage is through your mother,' said Geel. The head chief of each Wilp has the authority over a specific piece of land, but works with other chiefs and community members to come to a decision. This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. 'If you belong to a house or wilp and that house is tied to a piece of land and the land you use to sustain yourself and have a concern about what is happening, they need to come to me and talk to the Wilp and work things through.' Paramount is preserving the sanctity of the process, respecting the voice of each Wilp . The system, with its guiding principle of Ayook , has worked since time immemorial, said Geel, who emphasized that land management decisions are based on traditional knowledge combined with science. 'We were asked to take care of the land, and each of us take it very seriously.' dryan@ Read More
Vancouver Sun
5 days ago
- Politics
- Vancouver Sun
On Canada Day, Gitxsan Nation reflects on responsible land development
On July 1, Gitxsan hereditary Chief Simoogit Geel is thinking about the land, and about Ayook , the Gitxsan system of laws governing their people's relationship with each other and with the land. The chief, also known as Catherine Blackstock, is thinking about the health of her Wilp, or house, and the salmon, the forests, the minerals and wildlife on her nation's ancestral territories. She is also thinking of the recent provincial decision to allow the Prince Rupert Gas Transmission pipeline to go ahead without renewing its expired environmental certificate or requiring consultation with First Nations. Start your day with a roundup of B.C.-focused news and opinion. By signing up you consent to receive the above newsletter from Postmedia Network Inc. A welcome email is on its way. If you don't see it, please check your junk folder. The next issue of Sunrise will soon be in your inbox. Please try again Interested in more newsletters? Browse here. The proposed pipeline would transport natural gas from northeastern B.C. to a liquefied natural gas facility on the west coast, cutting through 50 kilometres of Gitanyow territory. Although an agreement with the Gitxsan nations has been in place since 2013, the American-backed project has raised controversy and legal challenges over its environmental impact. Its 11-year-old environmental certificate expired last fall. On June 10, the Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs, led by Grand Chief Philip Stewart, condemned the decision to move the pipeline ahead without engaging in consultation: 'Once again, it feels like we are headed into a long, hot summer.' 'We don't want to see a repeat of what happened with the Wet'suwet'en, with the armed police invading their pointing guns at people,' said Geel. 'No injunctions.' By respecting the traditional process of Ayook , and engaging in dialogue with the Gitxsan, Geel believes that could be avoided. 'We want to work on things as they come up,' said Geel. In 2024, Gitxsan hereditary chiefs called for the resignation of B.C. Supreme Court Chief Justice Leonard Marchand Jr., for allowing industries to use B.C. courts to obtain injunctions that lead to enforcement by the RCMP on Gitxsan territory. Geel, and 11 other hereditary Gitxsan chiefs launched an awareness campaign this week to highlight traditional Gitxsan Ayook, or laws, and their essential role in guiding responsible land development and economic growth on Gitxsan Laxyip, or traditional land. The Gitxsan Nation covers about 35,000 square kilometres in northwestern B.C. including the Hazelton area in the watersheds of the upper Skeena and Nass River region. Its communities include the Kispiox, Glen Vowell, Kitwanga, Kitwankool and Gitsegukla. 'As a hereditary chief, I have a responsibility to take care of the land. We have our own system. We have our own laws,' said Geel. 'The industries are pretty good and knowledgeable about knowing who they should come to, and who they should talk to, but we need more respect from the government,' said Geel. The B.C. NDP's new fast-track law, which gives the provincial government broad power to override regulatory hurdles, has raised concerns. 'We still stand by our authority,' said Geel. ' You can't push something through without us.' While the original pipeline agreement is still in place, Geel said it needs to be revisited since so much time has passed. 'We do have to consider there have to be potential impacts and turn over every stone to address any concerns.' Respect for the Gitxsan traditions and culture means conversations with each of the wilps, or house groups, of the nation, each of which holds the responsibility of preserving the sanctity and safety of their traditional territories. 'We are matrilineal, so how you receive your lineage is through your mother,' said Geel. The head chief of each Wilp has the authority over a specific piece of land, but works with other chiefs and community members to come to a decision. 'If you belong to a house or wilp and that house is tied to a piece of land and the land you use to sustain yourself and have a concern about what is happening, they need to come to me and talk to the Wilp and work things through.' Paramount is preserving the sanctity of the process, respecting the voice of each Wilp . The system, with its guiding principle of Ayook , has worked since time immemorial, said Geel, who emphasized that land management decisions are based on traditional knowledge combined with science. 'We were asked to take care of the land, and each of us take it very seriously.' dryan@
Cision Canada
6 days ago
- Politics
- Cision Canada
Gitxsan Hereditary Chiefs Advocate for Respect of Indigenous Laws to Safeguard Cultural Heritage
HAZELTON, BC, July 1, 2025 /CNW/ - As Canada Day prompts reflection on reconciliation, twelve Gitxsan Hereditary Chiefs are launching a vital awareness campaign. This initiative highlights Gitxsan Ayoo k (laws) and their essential role in guiding responsible land development and fostering self-determined economic growth on Gitxsan Laxyip (traditional land). The campaign aims to deepen understanding and foster greater awareness among Gitxsan youth and all Canadians, fostering connection to Gitxsan culture and way of life. The Chiefs recognize that upholding ayoo k is crucial for preserving unique Gitxsan culture, traditions and sanctity of their laxyip. Their commitment to the Gitxsan Nation's long-term well-being and prosperity is rooted in millennia of traditional stewardship, which must continue to be respected today. "For generations, our responsibility has been to ensure a thriving future for the huwilp (Gitxsan houses) and the Gitxsan people," says Simoogit Geel, Catherine Blackstock. "This means protecting our land, our culture, and our way of life while also building an economically strong nation. Today, we seek balance: development that strengthens our community so our children and grandchildren can continue to live and prosper on our ancestral lands, and respect for our environment and laws so we can lead our own way forward." The Gitxsan Nation has presided over 35,000 square kilometres of Gitxsan Laxyip in Northwestern British Columbia since time immemorial. This campaign ensures Gitxsan Ayoo k is understood and respected, safeguarding the land and its resources for future generations. "Our ayoo k are living systems governing our relationship with the land and with each other," explains Simoogit Gwiiyeehl, Brian Williams. "This campaign reflects our commitment to protect our laxyip for future generations. Respect for these laws is essential to true reconciliation and the survival of our way of life." Delgamuukw, Geel, Gitluudaahlxw, Gwiiyeehl, Gyetm Galdoo, Kliiyeem Lax Ha, Luutkudziiwus, Mauus, Wii Eelast, Wii Mukwilixw, Wosimlaxha and Yagosip
Yahoo
09-06-2025
- Yahoo
B.C. Mountie loses bid to stay charges in obstruction of justice case
A Prince George RCMP officer has lost a bid to stay an obstruction of justice charge and will now be sentenced, in a case connected to the death of an Indigenous man in custody. In July 2024, Const. Arthur Dalman was found guilty of obstructing justice for ordering a bystander to delete cellphone video showing the aftermath of the police takedown and arrest of Dale Culver on July 18, 2017. The 35-year-old Gitxsan and Wet'suwet'en man died in police custody 29 minutes after he was arrested, following a struggle with multiple police officers. Dalman is one of two officers who went on trial in the obstruction of justice case. The constable filed an application to stay his 2024 conviction, arguing that lengthy pre-trial delays meant he was denied his Charter rights to a trial within a reasonable in a ruling on May 29, Judge Adrian Brooks dismissed Dalman's application. His next court appearance is on June 19 to schedule a date for his sentencing. The other officer accused of obstruction of justice, Staff Sgt. Bayani (Jon) Eusebio Cruz was found not guilty in 2024. Culver's arrest and death happened nearly eight years ago, on July 18, 2017. That was followed by an investigation by B.C.'s Independent Investigations Office (IIO), an oversight agency that investigates anytime a police-involved incident results in serious harm or death. It filed its initial report to Crown counsel in July 2019, followed by an updated report in May 2020. Close to three years later, in February 2023, Crown prosecutors announced charges of manslaughter against two Mounties and charges of obstruction against three others, the first time the accused were publicly named. Charges against the two officers accused of manslaughter were stayed in April 2024. Charges against one of the officers accused of obstruction were stayed a month later, while the trial for the other two officers accused of obstruction was completed on July 25, 2024, resulting in Dalman's guilty verdict. 'Rare occurrence,' civil rights group says Culver's death and its aftermath have been viewed by civil rights advocates and First Nations leadership groups in B.C. as a key test of the justice system's ability to hold police accountable. The B.C. Civil Liberties Association (BCCLA) hailed the recent dismissal of Dalman's application, with a staff lawyer saying it's uncommon for officers to be charged with criminal offences and even less common for them to be found guilty. "We recognize that this is such a rare occurrence — that not only was Const. Arthur Dalman found guilty of obstruction of justice, but that despite his application to challenge that verdict, the judge upheld his guilty verdict," said Latoya Farrell. "And now we're going to be moving to sentencing, which is monumental in steps towards the police accountability." In a statement shared by the BCCLA, Culver's daughter asked how many people would have to die before the public realized the justice system was broken. "We have been waiting eight long years for this, and I have somehow managed to remain positive about my feelings that eventually someone would be held accountable," Lily Speed-Namox said. However, the National Police Federation's Pacific-North director, Chris Voller, was critical of Dalman's application being dismissed. "I think that this was an error," he told CBC News. "I think it was very clearly demonstrated, throughout the testimony of all involved, that Const. Dalman's Charter rights were clearly denied." Voller said the IIO, which forwarded a report to Crown prosecutors in Dalman's case recommending that charges be laid, made evidentiary errors in the case. "The public of British Columbia want and deserve to have the ability to say the oversight of their police officers is competent, timely and reasonable," he said. "We would request a review of the competency, timeliness and reasonableness associated to both the IIO investigations and charge assessment by the Crown counsel."
