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New Indigenous program put to test after bear struck near Keremeos

The program will see local First Nations respond when a skəmx̌íst, black bear, is struck by a vehicle
pib_guardians
Penticton Indian Band Guardian members Dean and Clint, who helped transport a black bear that was killed in a vehicle collision on Nov. 6.

A new program by the Lower Similkameen Indian Band to respond to bears that are hit by vehicles was immediately put into action. 

The recovery procedure came into effect on Nov. 5, and the next day, the LSIB was contacted after a vehicle strike between Olalla and Keremeos.

The skəmx̌íst, black bear in the syilx language, was recovered by the LSIB and taken to a resting place after any salvageable aspects are traditionally harvested. 

The new procedure is an agreement with AIM Roads, which notifies the LSIB if there are any collisions with a skəmx̌íst, the LSIB, Upper Similkameen Indian Band and Penticton Indian Band. 

Following the skəmx̌íst being taken to a resting place, an Elder will assist their journey forward by offering tobacco, prayers to the Creator and a small ceremony
thanking them for their contributions to the lands and all living things. 

"In our oral history, Chief skəmx̌íst is one of the Four Food Chiefs for the sməlqmíx of the sukanaʔqínx/syilx," said the LSIB. "Honouring Chief skəmx̌íst for giving their life for the 'People-To-Be' - current humans - is a large part of that history, and a further reason why skəmx̌íst is honoured."

The skəmx̌íst that was struck on Nov. 6 was transferred to the Penticton Indian Band to allow a PIB Elder to assist it on its journey.



Brennan Phillips

About the Author: Brennan Phillips

Brennan was raised in the Okanagan and is thankful every day that he gets to live and work in one of the most beautiful places in Canada.
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