In a momentous ceremony held on Thursday (May 15), Tsawout First Nation and the Capital Regional District (CRD) officially signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU), marking a significant step towards respectful and reciprocal government-to-government relations.
The signing took place within the Elders Room of Tsawout’s Wellness Centre, with photos of respected Tsawout Elders overlooking the historic event.
Tsawout Chief Abraham Pelkey and CRD board chair Cliff McNeil-Smith jointly signed the MOU, which establishes a framework for ongoing dialogue and collaboration.
This framework aims to support decision-making and service delivery that is rooted in respect, reciprocity and most importantly, the upliftment of Indigenous self-determination.
The MOU signifies a commitment from the CRD to integrate Tsawout's perspectives and traditional knowledge into regional initiatives.
This collaborative approach is expected to enhance the effectiveness and cultural sensitivity of regional services, while simultaneously creating opportunities for sustainable economic growth and overall community well-being within the Tsawout First Nation.
"Since time immemorial, we've been here and had a relationship with the land, sea, air and our environment," stated Chief Pelkey, emphasizing the deep connection the Tsawout people have with their territory.
He further noted that the MOU was the result of extensive work and collaboration between the Tsawout leadership and the CRD over the past two years, making the signing a landmark achievement for the community.
McNeil-Smith echoed Pelkey's sentiments, expressing his gratitude for the commitment and collaborative spirit demonstrated by the Tsawout leadership.
He emphasized the CRD's understanding that reconciliation is not merely a topic for discussion, but a principle that must be actively integrated into the CRD's governance and operational practices, including vital services such as water management and parks.
"I believe new approaches that are tangible, for example, working together regarding Island View Beach Regional Park, are hopefully a step to putting reconciliation into action," McNeil-Smith said.
The MOU explicitly recognizes Tsawout's jurisdiction and authority over its lands, waters and resources, affirming the CRD's respect for the First Nation's inherent rights, jurisdiction and law-making authority.
"Although the Local Government Act states engaging or consulting with a First Nation government isn’t mandated, CRD does it anyway," added Pelkey. "We at STAUTW value this effort and our newfound relationship, now and into the future.”
Both parties have committed to collaborating on a range of critical areas, including heritage conservation efforts, reclaiming traditional SENCOTEN place names, consultation processes, docks and foreshore stewardship, land acquisition strategies, and land use management and decision-making.
The signing ceremony was attended by Tsawout Elders, council members and young community members, who participated in a traditional ceremonial blessing through songs.
In keeping with First Nation traditions of community and togetherness, a shared lunch preceded the signing, fostering a sense of unity and celebration.
The spirit of the Tsawout First Nation Elders resonated throughout the room as the sound of the hand drum filled the air, a testament to the leadership's dedication to preserving their land and promoting their cultural heritage.