Williams Lake, B.C. – Lhatŝ’aŝʔin Memorial Day, observed on October 26, is an important day dedicated to remembrance, honouring, and commemorating the 160th anniversary of the War Chiefs.
“As a joint venture company led by Tsilhqot’in people, our team at Central Chilcotin Rehabilitation Ltd. would like to share with you that we are observing Lhatŝ’aŝʔin Memorial Day on October 26, as it is an opportunity to commemorate the Chilcotin War of 1864,” shared Percy Guichon, elected Councillor of Tŝideldel First Nation and Executive Director of Central Chilcotin Rehabilitation Ltd.
“This day honours our six Tŝilhqot’in Chiefs who fought to defend their territories from colonial governments. These Chiefs were betrayed, captured, and hanged in 1864 and 1865. In 2018, the Prime Minister of Canada exonerated the Chiefs - Chief Lhats’as?in, Chief Biyil, Chief Tellot, Chief Tahpitt, Chief Chayses, and Chief ʔAhan from any wrongdoing. By commemorating this day, we seek to keep this history alive, honour our courageous ancestors, and remember and reflect their spirit of perseverance and leadership in our daily lives and in the work we do to care for the land and our people,” Guichon added.
Photo Credit: Tŝilhqot’in National Government
The Tŝilhqot’in National Government is organizing a special event to honour the War Chiefs- Nits'il?in Lhatŝ'aŝ?in, Nits'il?in Biyil, Nits'il?in Telad, Nits'il?in Taqed, Nits'il?in Chiŝiŝ , and Nits'il?in ?Eghan on the 160th anniversary of their legacy. This meaningful gathering will occur on October 26 at the Fish Trap-Dean Lake Recreational site from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m.
Nits’ilʔin Joe Alphonse will open the event with welcoming remarks, followed by a prayer and traditional drum songs to foster a deep sense of connection.
Tŝilhqot’in Chiefs- Nits’ilʔin Otis Guichon, Vice Chairman (Tŝideldel), Nits’ilʔin Francis Laceese (Tl'esqox), Nits’ilʔin Troy Baptiste (ʔEsdilagh) and Nits’ilʔin Roger William (Xeni) will share their insights on this significant day. Former Chief Ray Hance will discuss the history of Lhatŝ’aŝʔin Memorial Day, ensuring its legacy is remembered.
Leadership voices from neighbouring Indigenous nations will follow, emphasizing shared experiences and unity. Nits’ilʔin Joe Alphonse will then deliver closing remarks. The ceremony will conclude with a prayer and drum song, expressing gratitude for the gathering and safe travels. Attendees can look forward to a complimentary lunch while reflecting on the contributions of the War Chiefs.
This connection to the past serves as a reminder of the resilience and strength of those who came before. By honouring the past, community members are inspired to take action that aligns with the values and teachings of their ancestors.
Lhatŝ’aŝʔin Memorial Day is more than a day of remembrance; it is a call to action, inviting all to carry forward the lessons learned and to nurture the land and people that define their shared identity.
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