Better dialogue with First Nations could have avoided Joffre Lakes closure, critics say – Times Colonist
Closing of park by two First Nations can be traced to B.C. government’s failure to negotiate treaties with Indigenous communities, Indigenous lawyer says
The closing of a popular provincial park by two First Nations is a consequence of the B.C. government’s failure to negotiate treaties with Indigenous communities, says a prominent Indigenous lawyer.
The Lílwat Nation and N’Quatqua First Nation announced last week they jointly shut down Joffre Lakes provincial park, also known as Pipi7iyekw, because they could not come to agreement with the province on times when they could have exclusive use of the park for harvesting and traditional ceremonies.
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The two First Nations — based north of Whistler — say the park will be shut until Truth and Reconciliation Day on Sept. 30 to allow the communities to harvest traditional foods such as berries and medicines, and carry out spiritual ceremonies.
