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Joint Indigenous and Local Government Initiatives and Relations
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Bridging the gap: Williams Lake leaders engage with First Nations community for better understanding
It was about people, not politics.
Those were the words Esk'etemc cultural and language co-ordinator Irene Johnson chose as she welcomed members of Williams Lake city council, and some other guests, to the Esk'et powwow arbor Tuesday, July 7 for dialogue and a sweat ceremony.
"We are here to see how we can work together and all learn from each other," said Irene as she looked around the circle, which also included about 25 people from her community.
During the meeting, the guests had a glimpse of what it is to be First Nations and to have held onto the culture and traditions, language and ceremony, Chief Fred Robbins added.
"For city council to partake was well received, I felt, the council left with more of a understanding of the trials and difficulties First Nations have in dealing with modern society, and still hold onto the fundamental truth. We are not going anywhere, and we need to work together, to protect the rich history and culture."