In May the RCMP launched an investigation into vandalism to several signs erected along the Highway 16 corridor by the Nine Allied Tribes of Lax Kw’alaams outlining their traditional place names and territorial boundaries.
“We wanted to document our oral and tribal history and affiliations with the land and present that as a reminder for guests coming into the territory,” said Stan Dennis Jr., spokesperson for the Nine Allied Tribes.
Around the same time it was reported that the Kasiks Wilderness Resort sign was set ablaze in early April, which is owned by Kitsumkalum.
Territorial conflict due to over lapping land claims along the lower Skeena have a long-standing history in Northwest, B.C. However, tensions are acutely high this time, as some Nations navigate Treaty discussions with the Federal and Provincial governments, while others assert their unceded rights and title to their traditional territories.
