From the Nation Chair, 2021

By Kathryn Teneese
Nation Chair
Ktunaxa Nation Council

This is a report on activities and highlights of the past year and will also include comments on what we've been experiencing since March of 2020. This report is provided on behalf of the Nation Chair and the Ktunaxa Nation Executive Council (KNEC).

The KNEC met as scheduled throughout the year all via Zoom. The last in person meeting of the KNEC was held on March 25, 2020.

Membership at the KNEC table includes the 4 Community Chiefs and the 5 Chairs of the Sector Councils. Since last year's report there have been some changes: Chief Ryan Nicholas from Akisqnuk has joined the KNEC along with Councillor Garrett Gravelle as the Chair of the Education and Employment Sector and Councillor Corey Letcher has returned as Chair of the Social Sector.

This past year has been challenging In that many of the activities that occurred in previous years were not held due to the Covid-19 pandemic and resulting directives from BC's Chief Medical Officer. The efforts of the leadership and staff who were responsible for following up at the local levels are most appreciated.

Although we were not able to connect in person I want to thank and acknowledge everyone who participated in the numerous sessions through the use of technology. Thanks to all the IT staff for their assistance. While this was not the ideal way to interact with each other, we were able to connect at least virtually. One downfall of virtual meetings is the tendency to schedule too many sessions resulting in 'Zoom' fatigue.

In closing, I want to acknowledge the efforts of everyone involved in the advancement of our efforts to achieve our Vision. I also want to take the time to remember the contributions of those who came before us and to remind ourselves of our responsibilities to those yet unborn. As I have stated many times, we all have something to contribute toward making our world a better place for ourselves and our neighbours today and into the future.

A special thanks to all those involved in ensuring our safety in our homes and workplaces during these challenging times. I also want to acknowledge the efforts of all Ktunaxa Citizens for doing their part by getting vaccinated. We have all learned that there are many ways to get things done. I know we're all looking forward to being together with friends and family as soon as we're able.

Taxa,

Kathryn Teneese, Nation Chair