Call out for interviews

CLOSED: This discussion has concluded.

NEWS ANNOUNCEMENT …. by Troy Hunter, Ktunaxa Outreach & Engagement Coordinator

Kiʔsuʔk Kyukyit Ktunaxanin̓tik,

This years’ Salmon Festival is coming May 3 and 4th.

It’s by Zoom and to participate, first pick a session, then register for it at https://columbiariversalmon.ca/events-2022/

I have received word from The Associated Press that they will be sending up a reporter and videographer from Los Angeles in the next month or two, to speak to Ktunaxa people about the river, fish, ceremony, etc.

I am now beginning to take names for interviews.

This will likely have coverage around the globe as it also involves many other countries.

I think from our perspective, we have to remember the Kootenay River is one part of the Columbia River and is very important part of our Creation Story for it is a circle.

There are so many impacts like dams on the system, and others, we are very fortunate to still have Kootenay Falls.

Also, I really like to see the progress being made in Yaqan Nuʔkiy with the revival of the Flatbow Culture, this would be ideal to consider … Let's send a strong voice that we need river ecosystems that support the return of the salmon.

Here is part of what I received:

"… We are working on a series of articles about sacred rivers around the world including in India, New Zealand, Africa, the Middle East and South America. In North America, I’m looking at profiling the Columbia River.

Would you have some time this week to speak with me about the possibility of an article about the sacred nature of the river and the salmon, and how it has been and continues to be a vital part of the tribes’ spiritual identity? We often hear about how these rivers are sacred and being threatened by pollution and climate change. I would really like to delve into the legends, stories and the beliefs that bind the spirit of a community with the river."

If you have something to say on this, please contact Troy Hunter, Bringing the Salmon Home Outreach & Engagement Coordinator Ktunaxa Nation Council, Phone: 250-489-2464 – Extension 3175 or by Email: troyd.hunter@ktunaxa.org

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The Columbia River was once the source of the greatest salmon runs in the world.

For over 80 years, salmon have been blocked by dams from returning to the upper Columbia River in the Kootenay region of British Columbia.

Bringing the Salmon Home: The Columbia River Salmon Reintroduction Initiative, the Indigenous-led collaboration of the Syilx Okanagan, Ktunaxa and Secwépemc Nations, together with Canada and B.C., is exploring innovative ways to bring the salmon back.

Discover more about this vital work through the Bringing the Salmon Home Festival May 3-4, 2022 happening online at ColumbiaRiverSalmon.ca.

All events are free.

Learn about innovative approaches to ecosystem restoration and cultural renewal.

Enjoy diverse presentations from leaders, elders, knowledge keepers, youth, storytellers, artists, musicians, and scientists.

Be first in line to register for the free festival events.

See the full program at ColumbiaRiverSalmon.ca