The first nation of British Columbia reached a proposed $ 135 million agreement with the federal government, 160 years after the settlers began taking over the village.
Leader Williams Selars of Williams Lake First Nation says the lawsuit, which began nearly three decades ago, ended in Canada’s Supreme Court in 2018 before mediation began last year.
Selars says the countryside in what is now Williams Lake was occupied by settlers, contrary to the colonial government’s commitment to creating a reserve, and many of their ancestors were resettled.
Members aged 18 and over will have a chance to ratify the agreement by a vote on June 29, and Selars said three information sessions will be held before that – on May 12, 26 and June 9.
He said the $ 135 million deal was close to the maximum of $ 150 million that could be provided, and called on all members of the First Nation to support it on behalf of future generations.
Selars says most of the money will go to a professionally run public trust, with interest providing annual payments to members, while the rest will fund programs to return cultural ceremonies and infrastructure, including housing and a community center.
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