International Day for the World's Indigenous Peoples 

August 9th is the 'International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples'! This day serves as a way to recognize, celebrate and affirm the identities, cultures and histories of Indigenous peoples, while also recognizing the historic and ongoing harm that Indigenous peoples face worldwide.

Quick facts:

• According to the United Nations, there are an estimated 476 million Indigenous persons across the globe, who speak roughly 7000 languages. 
• In the Canadian context, the term 'Indigenous' refers to individuals who self-identify as First Nations, Inuit and/or Métis.
• According to the 2016 census, there are an estimated 1.7 million individuals who self-identify as Indigenous in Canada. *Updated data is expected to be released in September 2022.*
• Language and youth are a powerful combination: 50% of Indigenous youth reported that language was either 'important' or 'very important' to them.
• In British Columbia, the First Peoples' Cultural Council has done significant work to support language revitalization and protection efforts.

Last month, BCTC travelled to Terrace to facilitate a Youth Treaty Simulation with Kitselas First Nation!

Ranging from ages 11 to 18, participants worked in teams to come to agreement on a core part of a fictional treaty -- the Education Chapter. 

Some highlights from the day included hearing from Senior Kitselas Treaty Negotiator, Dr. David Try, and listening to youth express in their own words why this experience was so important to them.

Kitselas, who negotiates alongside Kitsumkalum, is in Stage 5 of the treaty process. This simulation served as an opportunity for youth to learn more about their Nation's treaty journey, while also continuing to develop their strong leadership skills.

Recently, the Government of Canada announced changes to Section 87 of the Indian Act.

The changes mean that Canada will no longer require First Nations to relinquish certain tax exemptions in Modern Treaties. In the past, Modern Treaties contained clauses often referred to as the "8" and "12" clauses, which changed taxation practices after 8 and 12, respectively.

Indigenous governments can choose to maintain existing tax arrangements or take up direct tax powers on their own timelines, consistent with the principle of self-determination.

Consultation is underway to determine how best to implement these changes.

Truth and Reconciliation

Did you know that September 30th is the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation? You can register now for a week-long learning opportunity through the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation.

This week of national programming will be geared towards all ages -- including K-12 and educators.

Days 1 to 3 feature pre-recorded videos and a live Q & A session. On September 30, students will be able to view a live televised broadcast for Orange Shirt Day from their homes. 

All sessions will be held virtually on Hubilo. Registration is required to stream live and pre-recorded sessions and to participate in the Q & A segment.

Day 4 features an in-person gathering which will stream live for all those who are unable to attend.

Register here, free of charge.

You are not alone. For confidential support, the following resources are available to you:

• The National Indian Residential School Crisis Line provides 24-hour crisis support to former Indian Residential School students and their families toll-free at 1-866-925-4419.

• Individuals impacted by the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls crisis are encouraged to contact the MMIWG Crisis Line toll-free at 1-844-413-6649.



• First Nations, Inuit and Métis seeking immediate emotional support can contact the Hope for Wellness Help Line toll-free at 1-855-242-3310, or by online chat at hopeforwellness.ca.

Need to talk? The Indian Residential Schools Crisis Line is available 24-hours a day. Call toll free at 1-866-925-4419.