To the University of British Columbia Okanagan community, faculty, students, and the broader public:
We, Westbank First Nation (WFN), are deeply aware of the strong and ongoing relationship we share with the University of British Columbia Okanagan (UBCO). This relationship is rooted in a history of mutual respect, cooperation, and the recognition of the pivotal role that syilx knowledge keepers have played in shaping the academic landscape of UBCO. We are proud of the meaningful engagement we have had with UBCO, and we believe it serves as an exemplary model for how academic institutions can meaningfully honor Indigenous peoples and their land. It is through our shared commitment to understanding, respect, and reconciliation that we have forged this valuable partnership.
This is a truth that we stand by: the history of Indigenous peoples in Canada is one of resilience, strength, and survival in the face of centuries of colonialism, marginalization, violence, and genocide. Our relationship with UBCO is one of progress, where syilx knowledge and Indigenous perspectives are welcomed, validated, and integrated into the academic fabric of the institution.
However, we are deeply concerned by recent developments in which a group of UBC professors, including several from UBCO, are challenging the university's commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, as well as the institution's recognition of its location on unceded Indigenous land. The petitioners argue that these actions stifle academic freedom, yet it is clear to us that their claims veiled under the banner of "academic freedom" are, in fact, a thinly disguised attempt to perpetuate harmful rhetoric rooted in racism, bigotry, and historical denialism.
Too often, in the current political and media climate, individuals who resist the most basic principles of reconciliation and human rights attempt to cloak their actions under the guise of free speech. But as the ways of our people, past and present, have taught us: k̓ʷst̓lap iʔ stɬtaɬt - the Truth Shows Itself. History will undoubtedly look back on those who seek to undermine Indigenous rights and the pursuit of justice as self-serving individuals who weaponize the fundamental steps toward reconciliation for their own promotion.
At the heart of this dispute lies a commitment to truth and reconciliation, something we hold in the highest regard. To declare that UBCO’s recognition of unceded Indigenous land is somehow political or controversial is to dismiss the lived experiences of Indigenous peoples who have fought for their rightful place in this land for generations. Such positions only serve to erode the hard-fought progress we have made together with UBCO, and they send a dangerous message that reconciliation is negotiable or optional.
We unequivocally stand in solidarity with UBCO as they face this legal challenge. We believe that the values of inclusion, equity, and respect for Indigenous land and knowledge are fundamental to building a better future for all. These values should not be seen as political or divisive, but as critical to advancing a just and inclusive society. The syilx knowledge keepers and leaders who have contributed to the academic and cultural fabric of UBCO have done so with a deep sense of responsibility and care, and we will continue to support them in their efforts.
The relationship between UBCO, WFN, and the syilx / Okanagan Nation should be a model for other institutions—one built on mutual respect, collaboration, and a shared commitment to truth and reconciliation. The Memorandum of Understanding entered into by the Okanagan Nation Alliance and UBCO stands as a testament to the enduring collaboration and mutual respect between our organizations, reflecting our commitment to working together in good faith. We encourage other universities and academic institutions to look to UBCO as a leader in fostering an inclusive academic environment where Indigenous voices are heard, respected, and valued.
We stand with UBCO in this moment and remain committed to the ongoing work of reconciliation, education, and truth-telling. Let us all move forward together with a deep understanding that the truth cannot be hidden, and the path toward a more inclusive and equitable future requires courage, honesty, and a commitment to justice.
limləmt,
WESTBANK FIRST NATION