In-SHUCK-ch Nation facts for kids
The In-SHUCK-ch Nation, also known as the Lower Lillooet people, is a group of First Nations communities in British Columbia, Canada. They live along the lower Lillooet River, south of the towns of Pemberton and Mount Currie. The In-SHUCK-ch Nation is a Tribal Council, which means it's an organization where several First Nations communities work together.
The people of the In-SHUCK-ch Nation are part of the larger St'at'imc (pronounced STLAT-lee-um) people. They speak a language called St'at'imcets. While they were once part of the Lillooet Tribal Council, they later decided to form their own separate organization. The name In-SHUCK-ch comes from a special mountain called Gunsight Peak. In their language, Ucwalmicwts, In-SHUCK-ch means 'it is split', describing how the mountain looks.
The In-SHUCK-ch Nation includes three main communities:
- Semahquam First Nation
- Skatin First Nations
- Douglas First Nation
Another First Nation, the N'Quatqua First Nation from D'Arcy, also works closely with the In-SHUCK-ch Nation as part of the Lower Stl'atl'imx Tribal Council.
Contents
Understanding the Treaty Process
The In-SHUCK-ch Nation has been involved in the British Columbia Treaty Process. This is a way for First Nations, the provincial government of British Columbia, and the federal government of Canada to talk and agree on important matters. These matters often include land, resources, and how First Nations can govern themselves.
Signing the Agreement
In August 2007, a big step was taken when the In-SHUCK-ch Nation signed an "Agreement in Principle." This agreement is like a major step before a final treaty is signed. It outlines the main ideas and plans for a future treaty. Leaders from the In-SHUCK-ch Nation, along with government ministers like Michael de Jong (from British Columbia) and Chuck Strahl (from Canada), officially signed this important document.
Land and Resources
As part of this agreement, the In-SHUCK-ch Nation is set to receive about 13,208 hectares (that's about 32,637 acres) of provincial Crown land. Crown land is land owned by the government. They will also keep 1,310 hectares (about 3,237 acres) of their current Indian Reserves. The governments of Canada and British Columbia are also working to buy an additional 59 hectares (about 146 acres) of private land for the Nation.
Besides land, the agreement also includes a "capital transfer." This means the In-SHUCK-ch Nation will receive money to help them build and support their communities. The amount agreed upon was $21.0 million (based on 2005 values). This money helps the Nation develop programs and services for its people.
More About First Nations
- List of tribal councils in British Columbia
- St'át'timc Chiefs Council
