‘This feels like déjà vu’: Nations launch new TMX legal challenge

First Nations whose territories cover much of the Trans Mountain pipeline route in B.C. have launched appeals on the recent re-approval of the expansion project. 

Leaders from six communities announced on July 9 that they had filed documents at the Federal Court … Read More

Tla’amin member opens ‘tattoo spa’ in Powell River

When envisioning a stereotypical tattoo shop, many people would imagine things like skull decor, blaring rock music and bright neon lights.  But Tla’amin member Francis Jr Luaifoa wanted to open a shop that made the experience of getting a tattoo more like a relaxing trip … Read More

T’Sou-ke moves forward on gas station project

T’Sou-ke First Nation is preparing to open a new gas station, convenience store and Tim Hortons on its land. 

The nation broke ground on the project in late 2017 and final touches on the development are now being made. The businesses are expected to open soon.  

During a … Read More

K’ómoks installs solar array at I-Hos Gallery

K’ómoks First Nation is one step closer to its goal of net zero energy consumption with a recently-installed solar array. 

The solar panels installed at the community’s I-Hos Gallery in Courtenay, B.C., will generate 75 per cent of the electricity used … Read More

Malahat Nation partners on proposed ‘skywalk’ in territory

Malahat Nation has partnered in plans for a new elevated “skywalk” that would give tourists a stunning view of their territory on Vancouver Island.  

The proposed wooden Malahat Skywalk is a 650-metre forest pathway leading to a tower with a climbing spiral ramp, inspired by elevated forest walks in Europe. 

… Read More

Salish Eye Productions opens studio at Halalt

Photo: Salish Eye owner Tricia Thomas.

A Coast Salish digital design company has opened the doors of a new studio space at Halalt First Nation. 

Salish Eye Productions is owned by Halalt member Tricia Thomas (Laxelewetstnaat) and offers photography, videography, website design and more. 

… Read More

Malahat artwork added to Mill Bay ferry terminal

Photos: BC Ferries

Artwork created by two Malahat First Nation members is now on display at the BC Ferries terminal in Mill Bay. Jeremy and Jordan Harry painted two panels on the terminal’s wooden enclosure. One features two killer whales breaching … Read More

TFN receives $7.2M for housing project

Photo: Selina Robinson, B.C.’s housing minister, announced the new funding at Katzie Nation in late November. Photo courtesy of B.C. government.

Tsawwassen Nation has received $7.2 million in provincial funding that will go towards a new multi-family rental housing project. 

The grant will allow the … Read More

U.S. Coast Salish leaders travel to Canada for NEB hearings

A group of U.S. Coast Salish leaders travelled to Victoria to testify at the National Energy Board’s oral evidence hearings on Nov. 28. 

Representatives from Lummi, Swinomish, Tulalip and Suquamish travelled across the border to present their concerns to Canada’s energy regulator alongside their Canadian relatives. 

… Read More

Stz’uminus elders describe orcas as ‘family’ at NEB hearings

By Cara McKenna 

When Pearl Harris of Stz’uminus First Nation was a child, she learned to see the killer whales who would pass by her territory as family. 

The elder said southern resident orcas would often come up to shore of Shell Beach, and she would watch and listen to them.  

With guidance from her grandmother, Harris learned … Read More