Overview

• The Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation filed two lawsuits seeking inclusion in B.C. land-use consultations across Sinixt traditional territory and recognition of Sinixt history in the provincial curriculum.
• The tribes say B.C. downgraded their role from consultation to notification on decisions affecting habitat, resources, and heritage, which they describe as discriminatory.
• Their case cites a 2021 Supreme Court of Canada ruling confirming the Sinixt as an Aboriginal people of Canada despite many members living in Washington state.
• Premier David Eby said the province will contest the litigation and will focus its obligations on Indigenous peoples in British Columbia after discussions with Syilx Okanagan leaders.
• The Syilx Okanagan Nation supports B.C.’s approach, disputes Colville’s claim to be the sole Sinixt successor, and the government has not yet filed its response in court.