Union of British Columbia Indian Chiefs facts for kids

The Union of British Columbia Indian Chiefs (UBCIC) is an important organization for First Nations people. It was started in 1969 in British Columbia, Canada. The UBCIC was formed because of a government plan called the "White Paper." This plan wanted to change how the government worked with Indigenous Peoples.

Before the UBCIC, different Indigenous groups in British Columbia found it hard to work together. There were groups from the coast and groups from the interior, and they often had different ideas. But in November 1969, 175 chiefs from across the province met in Kamloops. They all agreed to create the UBCIC to have a strong, united voice. In 1971, the UBCIC officially became an organization with its own rules.

What is the UBCIC?

The UBCIC helps protect the rights and interests of First Nations communities in British Columbia. It works to make sure Indigenous voices are heard by the government. The organization is led by an Executive Committee and a Chiefs' Council. These groups are made up of chiefs who represent their communities.

Leaders of the UBCIC

The UBCIC has had several important leaders over the years.

Presidents of the UBCIC

• George Manuel (1979–1981)
• Robert (Bob) Manuel (1981–1983)
• Grand Chief Saul Terry (1983–1998)
• Grand Chief Stewart Phillip (1998–Present)

Vice Presidents of the UBCIC

• Chief Robert Chamberlin, OWADI (2009–2019)
• Chief Don Tom (2019–Present)

Secretary Treasurers of the UBCIC

• Kukpi7 Judy Wilson (2017–2022)
• Chief K̓áwáziɫ Marilyn Slett (2023–Present)

How the UBCIC Started

In 1969, the Canadian government, led by Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau and Minister of Indian Affairs Jean Chrétien, introduced a plan. This plan, known as the White Paper, suggested getting rid of the Indian Act. It also wanted to end the special relationship between Indigenous Peoples and the Canadian government.

Many Indigenous groups across Canada were worried about this plan. They felt the government did not listen to their ideas. In British Columbia, new Indigenous leaders decided to take action. People like Rose Charlie, Philip Paul, and Don Moses invited First Nations bands from all over the province to a meeting in Kamloops.

This meeting was a big success, with over 140 bands attending. It led to the creation of the Union of British Columbia Indian Chiefs. The UBCIC was formed to focus on important issues like land claims and Indigenous rights.

UBCIC Library and Archives

The UBCIC has a special library and archives. This collection helps people research land rights in British Columbia. It is mainly for First Nations members who are doing research for their communities. Other researchers can also use it if they follow the UBCIC's rules for ethical research. The library uses a unique system to organize its materials. This system, called the Brian Deer classification system, helps reflect Indigenous ways of thinking and knowing.