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Five f20-somethings friends sit and stand with smiles and airms raised over mountain sunset.

Young British Columbians make bold entrance in parliament, sound alarm for urgent action on climate and nature

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For more information, please contact:
Rippon Madtha
Communications Manager
rippon@cpawsbc.org
604-685-7445 (x23)

May 04, 2022

Young British Columbians make bold entrance in parliament, sound alarm for urgent action on climate and nature 

Youth are asserting their right to a just and livable future, with some of the first in-person provincial parliament meetings since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic

Xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish) and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Territories / Vancouver, BC – On Wednesday, 20 young British Columbians—from Coast Salish (Lower Mainland, Vancouver Island) to Ktunaxa territory (West Kootenays)—are congregating in Victoria’s parliament building to demand action on one of the top issues affecting young Canadians today: climate change, and its threat to nature. 

Throughout the day, the youth are meeting with Cabinet ministers, Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs), and other government officials to express their concerns on the dire state of global warming and species extinction in BC, and demand swift action to halt the twin crises. Their visit includes meetings with the new Minister of Land, Water, and Resource Stewardship, the Honourable Josie Osborne, the leader of BC’s Green Party, Sonia Furstenau, and several other key elected officials. 

With nearly 18% of BC’s population between the ages of 15 and 29, it’s critical that youth—especially those from underrepresented communities, or visible minorities—are included in provincial decision-making. Of these youth, many are also not eligible to vote; yet, their lives will be disproportionately impacted by climate change events relative to older generations. Already, 71% of young Canadians agree that they will suffer from more environmental health problems than their parents.

“As we’re seeing in Victoria today, youth are hungry to have their voices heard. Decisions made by government today will impact their futures for decades to come,” says Brynna Kagawa-Visentin, Youth Engagement Coordinator with CPAWS-BC. “It’s crucial that youth—who belong to BC’s mosaic of underrepresented communities and include visible minorities—are invited into rooms where climate and biodiversity decisions are made. Diversity is the hinge on many doors that could open if youth are actively invited into decision-making spaces.” 

Youth advocating for youth—and pushing for environmental protections—carves space out for future conservation leaders to uplift the community’s voices and build careers that support conservation initiatives. With Canada’s commitment to protecting 25% of lands and waters by 2025 and 30% by 2030, and an effective Nature Agreement to be signed between the federal and provincial governments, strong voices for nature are needed more than ever. BC is home to over 1900 species-at-risk, and both Indigenous Knowledge and western science agree that safeguarding more habitat for BC’s biodiverse plant and animal life is key to slowing down climate change.

“My hope is that these meetings set a precedent by showing other civically-interested youth that your voices won’t reverberate in an empty room. Leaders are listening for your fresh ideas and input to help protect BC’s incredible wildlife and landscapes, and build a better future for all,” says Kagawa-Visentin. “We look forward to seeing government officials further engage with young British Columbians on future biodiversity and climate change projects, including those informed by the upcoming Nature Agreement.”

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For more information, contact:
Rippon Madtha
Communications Manager
604-685-7445 (x23)
rippon@cpawsbc.org

Background and Key Facts:

  • 70% of the youth lobbying in parliament today identify as part of an underrepresented group or visible minority
  • According to Ipsos polling, 4 in 10 young Canadians state that they have been impacted by climate change
  • In 2020, the youth unemployment rate was 15.5%—more than the US or UK. Real life experience and training opportunities—like advocating for conservation in government meetings—are key to elevating youth out of unemployment and into green careers that address climate change and biodiversity loss
  • In February 2021, the BC and Canadian governments announced the development of a Nature Agreement. Negotiations have been underway since then. The agreement is expected to act as a framework for bi-lateral collaboration, and include recovery measures for at-risk species including Spotted Owl and caribou

Resources

Environment and Climate Change Canada. (2021, February 25).  Canada and British Columbia launch development of a new Nature Agreement [Press Release]. Retrieved from: https://www.canada.ca/en/environment-climate-change/news/2021/02/canada-and-british-columbia-launch-development-of-a-new-nature-agreement.html

Ipsos. (2021, October 15).  Young Canadians’ Attitudes on Climate Change [Polling]. Retrieved from: https://www.ipsos.com/en-ca/news-polls/canadian-youth-climate-poll

Statistics Canada (2022, April 27). Census Profile, 2021 Census of Population. Retrieved from: https://www12.statcan.gc.ca/census-recensement/2021/dp-pd/prof/details/page.cfm?Lang=E&SearchText=British%20Columbia&DGUIDlist=2021A000259&GENDERlist=1,2,3&STATISTIClist=1&HEADERlist=0

Youth Climate Lab. Youth & Climate Jobs are Critical to COVID-19 Economic Recovery [Brief]. Retrieved from: https://static1.squarespace.com/static/59ec036ef9a61ebf918040ac/t/603e78cb17f1c46b2f12c414/1617222570484/Research+Brief%3A+Youth+%26+Climate+Jobs+Critical+to+COVID-19+Economic+Recovery

Five f20-somethings friends sit and stand with smiles and airms raised over mountain sunset.
Photo: Heather Filyk

 

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22-04-07-Decl.-Act-Action-plan-10

CPAWS-BC: BC Government’s Historic Action Plan Signals Path for More Indigenous Reconciliation, Two Years Since Adoption of Indigenous Rights Act

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CPAWS-BC: BC Government’s Historic Action Plan Signals Path for More Indigenous Reconciliation, Two Years Since Adoption of Indigenous Rights Act

 April 12, 2022,

Xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish) and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Territories / Vancouver, BC — The Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society – British Columbia (CPAWS-BC) celebrates the BC government’s announcement to implement the Declaration Act Action Plan to fulfil the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) commitments.

This historic announcement further bolsters the provincial governments’ efforts in reconciling with Indigenous Peoples in BC. Premier John Horgan took an empowering step in November 2019 by adopting the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (DRIPA) into law, making BC the first Canadian jurisdiction to implement the UN Declaration through legislation.

The plan outlines 89 measurable actions every ministry in the BC government will undertake to create a more inclusive province for all Indigenous Peoples in British Columbia. Indigenous leadership and meaningful collaboration outlined in the plan supports a bright oath for lands and water conservation. Created in consultation with First Nations, Métis, and Inuit Peoples, the plan claims to reflect the priorities and aspirations of all Indigenous Peoples living in BC. 

“This important announcement ushers in renewed hope for Indigenous communities in British Columbia, knowing that the provincial government is taking a step in the right direction to correct historical injustices, facilitate self-determination, and ensure Indigenous Territories are brimming with healthy landscapes, waters, and biodiversity. These places have been thriving for millennia under Indigenous stewardship,” says Kevin Barlow, Executive Director of CPAWS-BC. “We hope that this significant step-change also looks to fast track conservation projects on the ground and in the ocean, while recognizing unilaterally-declared Indigenous Protected and Conserved Areas (IPCAs) as part of this reconciliatory action plan.”

 

We acknowledge that reconciliation and decolonization is an ongoing process that requires all of us to be actively involved. As we work toward the protection of diverse ecosystems, CPAWS-BC will do so in the spirit of decolonization, recognizing the essential leadership of the Indigenous stewards who have cared for these lands and waters since time immemorial. We are committed to deepening our relationships with Indigenous partners and we recognize that it is our responsibility to support Indigenous Peoples to safeguard their land and water.  

As a team, we are advancing awareness, knowledge, and capacity on our staff and board by providing cultural competency learning opportunities and workshops with Indigenous speakers, Elders, storytellers, and facilitators.

For more information, contact:

Rippon Madtha
Communications Manager
604-685-7445 (x 23)
rippon@cpawsbc.org

 

CPAWS-BC: BC Government’s Historic Action Plan Signals Path for More Indigenous Reconciliation, Two Years Since Adoption of Indigenous Rights Act

 April 12, 2022,

Xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish) and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Territories / Vancouver, BC — The Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society – British Columbia (CPAWS-BC) celebrates the BC government’s announcement to implement the Declaration Act Action Plan to fulfil the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) commitments.

This historic announcement further bolsters the provincial governments’ efforts in reconciling with Indigenous Peoples in BC. Premier John Horgan took an empowering step in November 2019 by adopting the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (DRIPA) into law, making BC the first Canadian jurisdiction to implement the UN Declaration through legislation.

The plan outlines 89 measurable actions every ministry in the BC government will undertake to create a more inclusive province for all Indigenous Peoples in British Columbia. Indigenous leadership and meaningful collaboration outlined in the plan supports a bright oath for lands and water conservation. Created in consultation with First Nations, Métis, and Inuit Peoples, the plan claims to reflect the priorities and aspirations of all Indigenous Peoples living in BC. 

“This important announcement ushers in renewed hope for Indigenous communities in British Columbia, knowing that the provincial government is taking a step in the right direction to correct historical injustices, facilitate self-determination, and ensure Indigenous Territories are brimming with healthy landscapes, waters, and biodiversity. These places have been thriving for millennia under Indigenous stewardship,” says Kevin Barlow, Executive Director of CPAWS-BC. “We hope that this significant step-change also looks to fast track conservation projects on the ground and in the ocean, while recognizing unilaterally-declared Indigenous Protected and Conserved Areas (IPCAs) as part of this reconciliatory action plan.”

 

We acknowledge that reconciliation and decolonization is an ongoing process that requires all of us to be actively involved. As we work toward the protection of diverse ecosystems, CPAWS-BC will do so in the spirit of decolonization, recognizing the essential leadership of the Indigenous stewards who have cared for these lands and waters since time immemorial. We are committed to deepening our relationships with Indigenous partners and we recognize that it is our responsibility to support Indigenous Peoples to safeguard their land and water.  

As a team, we are advancing awareness, knowledge, and capacity on our staff and board by providing cultural competency learning opportunities and workshops with Indigenous speakers, Elders, storytellers, and facilitators.

For more information, contact:

Rippon Madtha
Communications Manager
604-685-7445 (x 23)
rippon@cpawsbc.org

210803 Skagit post-08

CPAWS-BC celebrates step toward protection for the Skagit ‘donut hole’

For more information, please contact:
Tori Ball
Senior Campaigner
tori@cpawsbc.org
604-685-7445 (x24)

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

January 20, 2022

CPAWS-BC celebrates step toward protection for the Skagit ‘donut hole’

 

Unceded Coast Salish Territory / Vancouver, BC – After years of campaigning—CPAWS-BC is celebrating the surrender of Imperial Metal’s mineral tenures in the Skagit donut hole, a patch of wilderness between Skagit Valley and E.C. Manning provincial parks. A new agreement between the BC Government, Imperial Metals, and the Skagit Environmental Endowment Commission (SEEC) will see that Imperial Metals rescind its mining rights to the area (also known as Silverdaisy watershed), providing an opportunity for its protection.

This is a significant step towards protecting biodiversity in BC—and creating more large, contiguous, protected landscapes—as Canada pushes towards protecting 25% of its lands and waters by 2025.

“We’re thrilled that the threat of mining has been resolved in the Silverdaisy watershed and Skagit Headwaters,” says Tori Ball, Senior Campaigner with CPAWS-BC. “We’ve worked alongside an international coalition of First Nations, Tribes, and conservation and recreation organizations to halt logging and mining threats to the area. This huge success is thanks to the thousands of people who spoke up for this special area.” 

The 5,800 hectare donut hole falls on the Traditional Territory of the S’ólh Téméxw (Stó:lō), Syilx (Okanagan), and Nłeʔkepmx Tmíxw (Nlaka’pamux) Nations, who have depended upon the area’s forests and streams since time immemorial. It also provides habitat for key species like grizzly bears, salmon, spotted owl, and +200 bird species, and includes Skagit River’s sparkling headwaters and lush forests. 

“The Skagit headwaters hold a special place in the hearts of many. This agreement is one more step towards meaningful, lasting protection for these waters,” says Kevin Barlow, Executive Director with CPAWS-BC. “The area holds deep cultural meaning for several First Nations, Tribes and British Columbians, with numerous species like salmon depending on the health of these ecosystems.” 

This announcement comes off the heels of relentless efforts by an international coalition made up of nearly 300 conservation and recreation organizations, Tribes and First Nations, elected officials and local businesses, as well as over 6,000 individuals, who have opposed Imperial Metals’ application to mine in the Skagit. 

The agreement to protect the Silverdaisy watershed and Skagit Headwaters is good news for recreation and wildlife in BC and to our neighbours to the south in Washington. We applaud the BC government and SEEC for their work to bring this area one step closer to protection.

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For more information, please contact:
Tori Ball
Senior Campaigner
tori@cpawsbc.org
604-685-7445 (x24)

ID: Patch of wilderness between mountain peaks.
Photo by: Wilderness Committee

 

About CPAWS-BC:

The CPAWS British Columbia chapter (CPAWS-BC) works to protect wilderness in every corner of BC and deep into the ocean. We have been defending BC since 1978, and are dedicated to keeping BC’s natural environment thriving forever. Nature is BC’s best hope.

CPAWS-BC’s office is located on the ancestral and unceded territory of the səl̓ílwətaʔɬ (Tsleil-Waututh), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam) Nations. 

Visit: cpawsbc.org | Follow: @CPAWSbc

 

 

In the coming months, we hope to see the BC government work closely with local First Nations to fully protect BC’s favourite donut hole. Let’s encourage them to stay on the right path! 

Join us in sending them a quick thank you note.

 

Send a note of thanks
ID: close-up of glass sponges are white funnel-like tubes.

All Átl’ka7tsem/Howe Sound Glass Sponge Reefs Now Protected From Bottom Contact Fishing

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For more information, please contact:
Rippon Madtha
Communications Manager
rippon@cpawsbc.org
604-685-7445 (x23)

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

January 19, 2022

All Átl’ka7tsem/Howe Sound Glass Sponge Reefs Now Protected From Bottom Contact Fishing

Five new fisheries closures have been implemented to protect newly confirmed living glass sponge reefs in Átl’ka7tsem/Howe Sound

Unceded Coast Salish Territory / Vancouver, BC – The Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society – British Columbia (CPAWS-BC) is pleased to see five new protections announced for glass sponge reefs in Átl’ka7tsem/Howe Sound. These new fishing closures prohibit bottom contact fishing such as trawling and prawn trapping from destroying these rare and ancient ecosystems. These protections extend 150 metres around the reefs. This buffer prevents sediment kicked up from trawls and traps from choking the sponges.

“With this new announcement, all of Átl’ka7tsem/Howe Sound’s glass sponge reefs are now protected by 15 fishing closures,” says Carlo Acuña, Ocean Campaigner for CPAWS-BC. In 2019, nine glass sponge reefs in Átl’ka7tsem/Howe Sound were protected from bottom contact fishing. These new fishing closures protect the additional living reefs confirmed by Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) report with the aid of the Marine Life Sanctuaries Society in 2020.

The Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation) played a key role in securing these protections. They agreed to prohibit Indigenous bottom contact Food, Social and Ceremonial fishing activities for the closures announced in 2019. Consultations are ongoing regarding Food, Social and Ceremonial bottom contact fishing in the five new closures.

These protections safeguard biodiversity, improve ocean health and support the local economy. “Glass sponge reefs are ocean superheroes,” adds Acuña. “They provide habitat for rockfish and shrimp, store carbon in the ocean floor to fight climate change, filter bacteria out of the water, and fertilize ocean water for plankton and marine plants.”

The work to protect Átl’ka7tsem/Howe Sound’s glass sponge reefs does not end with these fishing closures. Fishing closure designations do not ensure permanent protection like marine protected areas (MPAs) do, as they are more easily removed. The 300 prawn traps found in a glass sponge reef fishing closure near Sechelt last year also indicates the need for stronger enforcement.

These protections show Canada’s intent for strong ocean conservation. With the 5th International Marine Protected Area Congress being held in Vancouver this September, CPAWS-BC looks forward to even bolder announcements to reach the government’s target of protecting 30% of the country’s ocean by 2030.

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Resources:

Strait of Georgia and Howe Sound Glass Sponge Reef Conservation Initiative, Fisheries and Oceans Canada. (2022). Overview of Strait of Georgia and Howe Sound Glass Sponge Reef Conservation Initiative: https://www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/oceans/ceccsr-cerceef/closures-fermetures-eng.html

Fisheries and Oceans Canada. (2022). FN0039-Glass Sponge Reefs – Pacific Region – Area 28 – Bottom Contact Fishery Closures – Effective January 17, 2022 [Fishery Notice]. Retrieved from: https://notices.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/fns-sap/index-eng.cfm?pg=view_notice&DOC_ID=254231&ID=all

Fisheries and Oceans Canada. (2022, January 17). Government of Canada releases draft 2022-23 Prawn and Shrimp by Trap Integrated Fisheries Management Plan [Press release]. Retrieved from: https://www.canada.ca/en/fisheries-oceans/news/2022/01/government-of-canada-releases-draft-2022-23-prawn-and-shrimp-by-trap-integrated-fisheries-management-plan.html

For more information, please contact:
Rippon Madtha
Communications Manager
rippon@cpawsbc.org
604-685-7445 (x23)

ID: close-up of glass sponges are white funnel-like tubes.
Photo by: Kim Conway

ID: newly protected glass sponge reefs are highlighted blue on howe sound map.

About CPAWS-BC:

The CPAWS British Columbia chapter (CPAWS-BC) works to protect wilderness in every corner of BC and deep into the ocean. We have been defending BC since 1978, and are dedicated to keeping BC’s natural environment thriving forever. Nature is BC’s best hope.

CPAWS-BC’s office is located on the ancestral and unceded territory of the səl̓ílwətaʔɬ (Tsleil-Waututh), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam) Nations. 

Visit: cpawsbc.org | Follow: @CPAWSbc

Mamalilikulla map-03

CPAWS-BC applauds Mamalilikulla First Nation’s new Indigenous-led protected area

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CPAWS-BC applauds Mamalilikulla First Nation’s new Indigenous-led protected area

Xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish) and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Territories / Vancouver, BC – The Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society – British Columbia (CPAWS-BC) congratulates Mamalilikulla First Nation in declaring gwaxdłala (Lull Bay)/‘nalaxdłala (Hoeya Sound) as an Indigenous Protected and Conserved Area (IPCA).

Near Knight Inlet on the central coast of British Columbia, this 10,416 hectare protected area is almost the size of the city of Vancouver, and contains watersheds that support critical species like grizzly bears, eagles, and salmon. It also houses a one-of-a-kind underwater sponge and coral reef. Without protection and sustainable management, this biodiversity risks being lost.

“Indigenous Peoples—like Mamalilikulla First Nation—have stewarded rich and healthy landscapes since time immemorial. This announcement is a re-assertion of the stewardship role they’ve held,” says Kevin Barlow, Executive Director of CPAWS-BC. “I look forward to seeing the crown governments uphold their commitment to the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) and the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (DRIPA) by formally recognizing this IPCA.”

In addition to protecting biodiversity and cultural values—including settlement sites—this IPCA is an important step forward in protecting 25% of BC’s lands and waters by 2025 in order to stem the climate change and biodiversity crises affecting communities across the province.

ID: Decorative

The ocean waters of the IPCA are proposed as a strongly protected component of the planned Northern Shelf Bioregion Marine Protected Area Network. This network, led by 17 First Nations including Mamalilikulla First Nation, aims to protect the species and ecosystems underpinning their ocean economy in the north Pacific coast of BC.

With their expertise protecting nature, CPAWS-BC looks forward to more Indigenous-led conservation initiatives.

Kevin Barlow
Executive Director, CPAWS-BC

To learn more about the Mamalilikulla First Nation, visit mamalilikulla.ca.

 

CPAWS-BC applauds Mamalilikulla First Nation’s new Indigenous-led protected area

Xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish) and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Territories / Vancouver, BC – The Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society – British Columbia (CPAWS-BC) congratulates Mamalilikulla First Nation in declaring gwaxdłala (Lull Bay)/‘nalaxdłala (Hoeya Sound) as an Indigenous Protected and Conserved Area (IPCA).

Near Knight Inlet on the central coast of British Columbia, this 10,416 hectare protected area is almost the size of the city of Vancouver, and contains watersheds that support critical species like grizzly bears, eagles, and salmon. It also houses a one-of-a-kind underwater sponge and coral reef. Without protection and sustainable management, this biodiversity risks being lost.

“Indigenous Peoples—like Mamalilikulla First Nation—have stewarded rich and healthy landscapes since time immemorial. This announcement is a re-assertion of the stewardship role they’ve held,” says Kevin Barlow, Executive Director of CPAWS-BC. “I look forward to seeing the crown governments uphold their commitment to the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) and the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (DRIPA) by formally recognizing this IPCA.”

In addition to protecting biodiversity and cultural values—including settlement sites—this IPCA is an important step forward in protecting 25% of BC’s lands and waters by 2025 in order to stem the climate change and biodiversity crises affecting communities across the province.

decorative

 

The ocean waters of the IPCA are proposed as a strongly protected component of the planned Northern Shelf Bioregion Marine Protected Area Network. This network, led by 17 First Nations including Mamalilikulla First Nation, aims to protect the species and ecosystems underpinning their ocean economy in the north Pacific coast of BC.

With their expertise protecting nature, CPAWS-BC looks forward to more Indigenous-led conservation initiatives.

Kevin Barlow
Executive Director, CPAWS-BC

To learn more about the Mamalilikulla First Nation, visit mamalilikulla.ca.

2021.11.08 - Wetʼsuwetʼen statement cover (preview)

Statement of Solidarity: Wet’suwet’en Land Defenders

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Statement of Solidarity: Wet’suwet’en Land Defenders

Content warning: Contains mentions of police violence and settler colonial violence

November 23, 2021, Xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish) and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Territories / Vancouver, BC – CPAWS-BC stands in solidarity with Wet’suwet’en clans who have re-occupied and taken control over their Yintah (territory) and condemns the arrests of land defenders and journalists.

Those occupying the land do so under Inuk Nuatden (Wet’suwet’en law) and Canadian law. In 1997, the Supreme Court of Canada issued the Delgamuukw-Gisday’wa decision, which asserted that the Wet’suwet’en people, as represented by their hereditary chiefs, had not given up rights and title to more than 20,000 square kilometres of territory in northern British Columbia. Despite this ruling, the colonial Canadian and British Columbian governments continue to permit resource projects without the free, prior, and informed consent of Wet’suwet’en Hereditary Chiefs.

Like many, CPAWS-BC applauded the BC government’s commitment to uphold the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) through the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (DRIPA) in 2019. UNDRIP protects against all forms of violence and discrimination for Indigenous Peoples of the world. However, the province continues to deny Wet’suwet’en and other Indigenous Nations across British Columbia these human rights. 

CPAWS-BC Executive Director Kevin Barlow said, “The main purpose behind UNDRIP, and by default DRIPA, is to prevent resource extraction from Indigenous territories without their full consent. Throughout the world, over 50 per cent of Indigenous people now live in urban areas due to encroachment, primarily from resource extraction. Government has a great responsibility to handle these situations with integrity and without armed force.” 

The increased and on-going RCMP action on Wet’suwet’en lands in recent days is deeply concerning. As the climate crisis intensifies with record floods, fires and heatwaves, so does the violence against land defenders and the journalists sharing their stories. Providing safe access for journalists to cover events falls well within their charter rights. Indigenous voices and stories have historically been, and continue to be suppressed in mainstream media as a measure to uphold colonial systems and capitalist agendas. The RCMP must end these acts of aggression immediately. 

 

ID: Decorative

 

BC is currently in the grips of a crisis. Across the province, highways and roads have been completely destroyed, huge swaths of agricultural land are under water, thousands have been evacuated, and many more were stranded far from home without adequate food, water, and shelter. Yet the province deployed emergency resources that could have been directed to relief efforts to instead intimidate, harass, and arrest Indigenous Peoples who are exercising their rights to self-determination and stewardship of their lands—and opposing the very type of fossil fuel extraction project that worsens the catastrophic weather we’ve recently experienced. 

CPAWS-BC urges the immediate withdrawal of the RCMP from Wet’suwet’en Territory and the release of those detained. We stand in solidarity with the Wet’suwet’en and all Indigenous Peoples who are reasserting their relationships with land and water in order to strengthen their culture, traditional practices, and stories. We are grateful for their leadership and vision for a just future.

We encourage all Canadians to:

  1. Donate to the Wet’suwet’en Land Defenders http://go.rallyup.com/wetsuwetenstrong
  2. Amplify the Wet’suwet’en Peoples struggle through your social media handles, and conversations with family, friends, and co-workers. 
  3. Keep up to date as the events unfold by following:


Kevin Barlow (Mi’kmaw)
Interim Executive Director, CPAWS-BC

 


Quick Facts: Wet’suwet’en, B.C. and Canada launch path to implement rights and title

  • Wet’suwet’en means people of the Wedzin Kwe River (Bulkley River) Yintah means territory. Inuk Nuatden means Wet’suwet’en laws.
  • The Wet’suwet’en Yintah, is located in the central Interior of B.C. around Smithers, Burns Lake, Broman Lake, and François Lake.
  • Wet’suwet’en Nation is comprised of five clans: Gilseyhu (Big Frog) Laksilyu (Small Frog), Gitdumten (Wolf/Bear), Laksamshu (Fireweed), and Tsayu (Beaver).
  • The clans are divided into 13 Houses and each House is represented by a Hereditary Chief.

References:

Statement of Solidarity: Wet’suwet’en Land Defenders

Content warning: Contains mentions of police violence and settler colonial violence

November 23, 2021, Xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish) and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Territories / Vancouver, BC – CPAWS-BC stands in solidarity with Wet’suwet’en clans who have re-occupied and taken control over their Yintah (territory) and condemns the arrests of land defenders and journalists.

Those occupying the land do so under Inuk Nuatden (Wet’suwet’en law) and Canadian law. In 1997, the Supreme Court of Canada issued the Delgamuukw-Gisday’wa decision, which asserted that the Wet’suwet’en people, as represented by their hereditary chiefs, had not given up rights and title to more than 20,000 square kilometres of territory in northern British Columbia. Despite this ruling, the colonial Canadian and British Columbian governments continue to permit resource projects without the free, prior, and informed consent of Wet’suwet’en Hereditary Chiefs.

Like many, CPAWS-BC applauded the BC government’s commitment to uphold the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) through the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (DRIPA) in 2019. UNDRIP protects against all forms of violence and discrimination for Indigenous Peoples of the world. However, the province continues to deny Wet’suwet’en and other Indigenous Nations across British Columbia these human rights. 

CPAWS-BC Executive Director Kevin Barlow said, “The main purpose behind UNDRIP, and by default DRIPA, is to prevent resource extraction from Indigenous territories without their full consent. Throughout the world, over 50 per cent of Indigenous people now live in urban areas due to encroachment, primarily from resource extraction. Government has a great responsibility to handle these situations with integrity and without armed force.” 

The increased and on-going RCMP action on Wet’suwet’en lands in recent days is deeply concerning. As the climate crisis intensifies with record floods, fires and heatwaves, so does the violence against land defenders and the journalists sharing their stories. Providing safe access for journalists to cover events falls well within their charter rights. Indigenous voices and stories have historically been, and continue to be suppressed in mainstream media as a measure to uphold colonial systems and capitalist agendas. The RCMP must end these acts of aggression immediately. 

 

 

BC is currently in the grips of a crisis. Across the province, highways and roads have been completely destroyed, huge swaths of agricultural land are under water, thousands have been evacuated, and many more were stranded far from home without adequate food, water, and shelter. Yet the province deployed emergency resources that could have been directed to relief efforts to instead intimidate, harass, and arrest Indigenous Peoples who are exercising their rights to self-determination and stewardship of their lands—and opposing the very type of fossil fuel extraction project that worsens the catastrophic weather we’ve recently experienced. 

CPAWS-BC urges the immediate withdrawal of the RCMP from Wet’suwet’en Territory and the release of those detained. We stand in solidarity with the Wet’suwet’en and all Indigenous Peoples who are reasserting their relationships with land and water in order to strengthen their culture, traditional practices, and stories. We are grateful for their leadership and vision for a just future.

We encourage all Canadians to:

  1. Donate to the Wet’suwet’en Land Defenders http://go.rallyup.com/wetsuwetenstrong
  2. Amplify the Wet’suwet’en Peoples struggle through your social media handles, and conversations with family, friends, and co-workers. 
  3. Keep up to date as the events unfold by following:


Kevin Barlow (Mi’kmaw)
Interim Executive Director, CPAWS-BC

 


Quick Facts: Wet’suwet’en, B.C. and Canada launch path to implement rights and title

  • Wet’suwet’en means people of the Wedzin Kwe River (Bulkley River) Yintah means territory. Inuk Nuatden means Wet’suwet’en laws.
  • The Wet’suwet’en Yintah, is located in the central Interior of B.C. around Smithers, Burns Lake, Broman Lake, and François Lake.
  • Wet’suwet’en Nation is comprised of five clans: Gilseyhu (Big Frog) Laksilyu (Small Frog), Gitdumten (Wolf/Bear), Laksamshu (Fireweed), and Tsayu (Beaver).
  • The clans are divided into 13 Houses and each House is represented by a Hereditary Chief.

References:

210930 photo contest - IG-0101

Nature’s Bubble Photo Contest

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210930 photo contest - IG-0101

It’s been quite a year and a half! Despite many restrictions and challenges, nature has been there for us when we needed it most. Nature was ready to welcome us, enveloping us in its safe bubble where we found recreation, rest, and rejuvenation. Whether you enjoyed the greenery from your balcony or ventured into local parks and the untamed wilderness, join us in celebrating the great outdoors by sharing a photo of how you found solace in nature’s bubble!

Prizes

– One $500 MEC gift card (based on judging criteria)

– One of two $250 MEC gift cards (randomly selected at end of contest) 

– One of two survival kits from BMG Industries, awarded randomly and biweekly

How to Enter

  1. Post your photo in nature’s bubble from the last 12 months on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram. Photos must be public so we can see them!

  2. In your caption, tell us why nature matters to you, and what’s special about your memory.

  3. Tag and follow CPAWS-BC and the Guide Outfitters Association of BC. Multiple entries are encouraged—up to one entry a day!
    CPAWS-BC: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram
    Guide Outfitters Association of BC: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram

Make sure that your profile is public so that we can see it. Posts must be put in a feed, unfortunately Instagram stories will not be eligible to win.

Don’t have a social media account? No problem! You can also email parks@cpawsbc.org with subject line “Nature’s Bubble Photo Contest”. 

UPDATE: Contest closes on Friday, November 5, 2021. Find the full contest rules here.

ID: Sunrise over the water on Vancouver Island

Statement of Solidarity: National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

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Statement of Solidarity: National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

 

September 30, 2021, Xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish) and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Territories / Vancouver, BC – CPAWS-BC stands in solidarity with Indigenous Peoples as we observe the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. We acknowledge the role of colonization on Indigenous Peoples, and we in the conservation movement remain committed to working actively towards healing and reconciliation.

We honour thousands of Indigenous children lost to residential schools by also recognizing September 30 as Orange Shirt Day. We stand with the communities and Nations grieving the confirmation of their long-held knowledge:  215 children at Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc, 104 in Sioux Valley Dakota territory near Brandon, 751 on Cowessess First Nation, 160 in Hul’qumi’num Territory on Vancouver Island and 182 in Ktunaxa Territory. The National Centre For Truth and Reconciliation confirms the identities of 4,117 children. And we sadly acknowledge there will be more gravesites found.

The legacy of residential schools and colonialism continues to negatively impact Indigenous Peoples today. CPAWS-BC has a responsibility as a leader in the conservation movement to take steps that can begin to heal relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples and the lands and waters where we work. 

We recognize that reconciliation and decolonization is an ongoing process that requires all of us to be actively involved and responsible as our collective learning evolves. CPAWS-BC makes a firm commitment to uphold decolonization as a cornerstone in our conservation work. 

As we work toward the protection of diverse ecosystems, CPAWS-BC will do so in the spirit of decolonization , recognizing the essential leadership of the Indigenous stewards who have cared for these lands and waters since time immemorial. We are committed to deepening our relationships with Indigenous partners and we recognize that it is our responsibility to support Indigenous Peoples to safeguard their land and water.  

As a team, we are  advancing awareness, knowledge, and capacity on our staff and board by providing cultural competency learning opportunities and workshops with Indigenous speakers, Elders, storytellers, and facilitators. 

We encourage all Canadians to read the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada (TRC) Calls to Action. You can further support Indigenous communities today by participating in virtual events such as the Tk’emlups te Secwepemc’s Drum for the Children event or the Orange Shirt Day event in Vancouver. If you can, please consider donating to the Indian Residential School Survivors Society, the Orange Shirt Society, or One Day’s Pay. 

Sincerely,

Kevin Barlow (Mi’kmaw)
Interim Executive Director, CPAWS-BC

For more information please contact:

Rippon Madtha
Communications Manager
604-685-7445 (x 23)
rippon@cpawsbc.org

Read our recent blog Hope for the Coast

Let’s honour the ocean with a BC Coastal Marine Strategy

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Let’s honour the ocean with a BC Coastal Marine Strategy

In 1992, Canada first proposed the idea of a World Oceans Day at the Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro, as a day to encourage protection of the ocean and the sustainable management of its resources. Twenty-nine years later, on World Oceans Day 2021, the message of World Oceans Day is needed now more than ever in British Columbia. 

The iconic southern resident killer whales have been listed as endangered since 2001, fishers worry about their livelihoods, and coastal communities in BC are concerned about climate change-induced sea level rise and flooding. Without a strategy to protect and sustainably manage coastal and marine spaces, we are putting the future of the coast at risk. 

However, this year on World Oceans Day, we have hope for the coast. After years of calls from conservation groups, fishers, local governments, and others, the provincial government has recognized that it needs to act to address the challenges facing coastal and marine areas. 

Following the October 2020 election, the British Columbia government committed in ministerial mandate letters to “developing a coastal marine strategy – in partnership with First Nations and federal and local governments – to better protect coastal habitat while growing coastal economies.” Minister of State for Lands and Natural Resource Operations Nathan Cullen is tasked with leading this important initiative. 

The development of a BC coastal marine strategy and law represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to revamp provincial coastal management to ensure marine life and coastal communities get the future they deserve. 

What is a Coastal Marine Strategy and Law?

In the face of accelerating coastal development, greater stressors on ocean resources, and declines in marine ecosystem health, many states around the world have adopted coastal marine strategies to better manage coastal and marine areas. We refer to a coastal marine strategy as a “blueprint for the coast” because it provides long-term directions to guide governments in the planning and management of these areas. 

A strong coastal marine strategy will identify high level goals for coastal and ocean management and include laws and policies to achieve these goals. 

The strategy should ensure that the management of marine and coastal areas is:

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  • Integrated – so that provincial government decision-makers, including local governments, coordinate effectively between themselves and with Indigenous and federal governments;
  • Adaptive – meaning that the provincial government monitors and adapts its decision-making to ensure that the goals of the strategy are being met; and 
  • Sustainable – so that the needs of future generations are not compromised by today’s decisions. 

 

Since the 1970s, the West Coast US states have had in place coastal marine strategies and laws to help manage ocean areas in concert with the federal government, Indigenous tribes, and local governments. They have created commissions or other government bodies in charge of administering their coastal marine strategies, have developed marine spatial plans that detail where activities can occur, implemented networks of marine protected areas to restore fisheries and revive marine ecosystems, and adopted sophisticated monitoring programs. Aside from BC, almost every coastal state and province in the US and Canada has adopted a strategy or law to manage its ocean areas, with Nova Scotia being the most recent, having adopted its Coastal Protection Act in 2019.  

 

Here in BC

While British Columbia exercises significant jurisdiction in coastal and marine spaces, it does not currently have a comprehensive coastal marine strategy backed by a law to direct its ocean management. 

Right now, BC manages coastal and marine areas through a patchwork of regulations and laws overseen by different ministries and departments without an overarching vision for those decisions or a centralized body responsible for those decisions. This approach makes it difficult to coordinate with Indigenous nations and federal and local governments and to ensure that the long-term health of coastal and marine ecosystems is safeguarded.

The provincial government has nonetheless created some promising initiatives in recent years to improve management and protection of marine and coastal areas. For example, BC partnered with Indigenous nations through the Marine Plan Partnership (MaPP), a unique partnership to develop plans to manage marine areas from the Alaskan border down to Northern Vancouver Island in an ecosystem-based and adaptive manner. BC is also involved in the creation of a network of marine protected areas in the Great Bear Sea with the federal government and Indigenous nations. 

However, without the backing of a coastal marine strategy and law, the success of these initiatives could be in jeopardy.

 

What’s needed for a strong BC Coastal Marine Strategy

A BC Coastal Marine Strategy can accomplish a number of important objectives for the coastal and marine areas off British Columbia – and the communities that rely on them. 

 

Next Steps

Coastal strategies and laws have been successfully implemented around the world in order to ensure better integrated ocean governance and to safeguard ocean ecosystems. It is exciting to finally be embarking on this journey in British Columbia. 

We know that the development a coastal marine strategy can take a considerable amount of time, so it will be important that the Province, in partnership with Indigenous nations, begin development of the coastal marine strategy as soon as possible. 

Join us this week as we celebrate World Oceans Day 2021, by showing the provincial government that you support the development of a BC coastal marine strategy. Take action by either sending a tweet or email to the provincial government today.

 

Take Action

 

Let’s fulfill the promise of this day and make sure marine life and coastal communities get the future they deserve.  Join us!

CPAWS-BC and West Coast Environmental Law (WCEL) will be following every step of this process, and we invite you to stay up to date and get involved by visiting blueprintforthecoast.ca, signing up for our newsletters or follow us @Blueprint4Coast on Twitter.

By Michael Bissonnette, WCEL Marine Program Staff Lawyer 

2021 April 13- WP Thumb featured image - - youth jobs parks (1)

New youth jobs program bolsters conservation and recreation in BC, say conservationists

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For interviews, contact:
Tori Ball, Senior Campaigner
Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society, BC Chapter
tori@cpawsbc.org
(604) 685-7445 x24 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

New youth jobs program bolsters conservation and recreation in BC, says conservationists

April 13, 2021

Traditional territories of the Coast Salish peoples/Vancouver, BC — The Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society – British Columbia (CPAWS-BC) is praising a new provincial program that will give youth opportunities to work in conservation and recreation. These jobs will help to launch careers in wilderness stewardship while preparing BC’s vast outdoor recreation network to host record visitor numbers through another pandemic summer.

“We’re thrilled to see this much needed capacity lift for nature and outdoor recreation in the province,” says Tori Ball, Senior Campaigner with CPAWS-BC. “We can all breathe a sigh of relief knowing that the province is preparing to better support the health and wellbeing of British Columbians by providing more access to parks, trails and camping opportunities.”

This is the second youth-focused work program the BC government has launched in the last year, both of which included conservation-specific opportunities. Hiring youth to improve parks and nature stewardship will help to meet the increasing need for more trails and campgrounds as people look to escape locally during the pandemic.

Long-standing budget constraints have created bottlenecks in BC’s parks system, from delays in planning to visitor facilities in need of maintenance or waiting to be built. Unfortunately, this resulted in BC’s provincial parks being forced to shut down last spring due to concerns with understaffing and overcrowding.

“Spending time outdoors has been a consistent public health recommendation during the pandemic, and we’re encouraged that the BC government is taking measures to ensure there are safe, well-managed places for people to get outside,” says Ball.

“As people invest in outdoor gear for the long-haul, we hope to see more long-term investments and programs of this kind coming down the pipe to support the vast and diverse nature and recreation systems in BC,” she adds.

 

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For interviews, contact:

Tori Ball, Senior Campaigner
Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society, BC Chapter
tori@cpawsbc.org
(604) 685-7445 x24

ID: DownloadDownload Media Release PDF

 

Resources

As a part of the Stronger BC Future Leaders Program, the BC government is investing in youth conservation jobs to accommodate and support growing demand for outdoor recreation:

  • The Ministry of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development will invest more than $11 million for over 220 jobs in the Natural Resource Youth Employment program and the Recreation Sites and Trails program.
  • The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Strategy will invest $4.6 million to create 37 positions with BC Parks and 46 positions with the Conservation Officer Service, to work in a variety of fields to gain experience and help protect the environment.
  • The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Strategy is creating opportunities for up to 180 young people to help tackle marine debris and plastic pollution in coastal communities. An investment of $5 million in the Clean Coast, Clean Waters program is aimed at youth employment, including youth in Indigenous communities.
  • More information: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/StrongerBC-FutureLeaders 

 

About CPAWS-BC

Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society – British Columbia (CPAWS-BC) is part of one of Canada’s oldest non-profit conservation groups. We protect wilderness in every corner of BC and deep into the ocean. We have been defending BC since 1978, and are dedicated to keeping BC’s natural environment thriving forever. Nature is BC’s best hope.

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