Coast Salish Territory/ Vancouver, BC – The leadership of the First Nations Summit is concerned that the collective will of the Tla’amin (Sliammon) Nation finds expression in Tuesday’s vote on the Tla’amin final agreement without further delay and be conducted in a safe and respectful environment.
“We understand that the Tla’amin Government has secured an injunction from the courts against the blockade of the voting center. Further, they will be defending the integrity of the referendum voting process once again today in court where those that have physically blockaded are now asking the courts of law to assist them in stopping the Tla’amin people from voting. We support the Tla’amin Chief and Council and the Ratification Committee in their efforts to provide an opportunity to vote to all Tla’amin members on this important issue”, said Grand Chief Edward John of the First Nations Summit political executive.
“As the First Nations Summit Chiefs have stated time and time again we come together in an atmosphere of respect and support the autonomy and decisions of each First Nation. In that spirit, we applaud the Tla’amin people for taking the time to cast their vote tomorrow to determine the direction of their Nation”, added Chief John.