Located in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, the Kootenay Plains are part where the North Saskatchewan River Valley is shaping its edges over a long period of time.
Historically, this area has been part of human habitation and culture for thousands of years, starting with the arrival from North, the ancestors of first modern Indigenous peoples of Americas.
Before this land was colonized, hunting was far more than a subsistence activity; it was an integral part of daily existence, spiritual practice, foundation for cultural identity and a belief that the land is a sacred, living entity that cannot be "owned" by any individual, but rather cared for and respected by all.
The core principles and values of this campaign focus on acknowledging and honoring the past users of the Kootenay Plains land.
Save The Kootenay Plains is not a formal organization, but rather an expression of the commitment to reconciliation and respect for the region's cultural heritage. This initiative it's all about creating space for a variety of ideas, backgrounds, and experiences to be heard and respected. These can only lead to richer discussions, more innovative solutions, and a deeper understanding of Kootenay Plains complex issues.
Kootenay Plains' Future is at stake!
Proposed commercial development and land changes jeopardize the historical, cultural, environmental legacy and current use of this area. If we act now, we can protect the Kootenay Plains, the North Saskatchewan River Valley and burial grounds under Abraham Lake, its history, the environment, and this area to be continued be used by everyone and the generation to come.
“The process of reconciling Aboriginal interests with the broader interests of society as a whole is the raison d’être of the principle of justification. Aboriginals and non-Aboriginals are “all here to stay” and must of necessity move forward in a process of reconciliation (para. 186). To constitute a compelling and substantial objective, the broader public goal asserted by the government must further the goal of reconciliation, having regard to both the Aboriginal interest and the broader public objective”.
Tsilhqot’in Nation v British Columbia, 2014 SCC 44 at para. 82, [2014] 2 SCR 257:
respecting the natural environment
Land, Forest, Animals, People
There is a tree that has been growing on Kootenay Plains for almost 3,000 years. It grows from a rock on the banks of the North Saskatchewan River, and it is a symbol of endurance, strength, and the deep connection between the land, the forest, the animals and the people.
integrate traditional knowledge
Facts build knowledge and the truth helps to believe.
A single story can provide a powerful lens to reflect on life, and the narratives can help find a much deeper understanding of ourselves and the natural world around us. It can provide the courage not to be afraid to take the action.
The stories from the North Saskatchewan River Valley are about human connection and are authentic. They foster empathy and validate a deep sense of belonging to this region. The narratives are rooted in the real experiences and serve to bridge to understanding of the past, the time now and plan the future.
legal and political recognition
Ready to take the next step?
If we look at how far we’ve come and how much we, both Indigenous and non-Indigenous Peoples, have learned we can move forward together along the path to reconciliation. Yes, we have much ground to cover but if we walk together the path for mutual respect will be smoother.
Alberta Trails for Mutual Respect Tour is raising awareness and appreciation that builds community and political support for Save the Kootenay Plains campaign.
Learn from the past, live in the now, and plan for the future
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Reflect and gain wisdom, forgive and let it go. Let’s meet up in real life and talk about the Sacred beauty of the Kootenay Plains and Northern Saskatchewan River Valley.
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