On March 8, K’ómoks First Nation members will vote on a proposed treaty that would provide the basis for a new relationship between K’ómoks and all levels of government.
The City of Courtenay, Comox Valley Regional District, Town of Comox and Village of Cumberland offer our heartfelt wishes to the K’ómoks community on this historic day and recognize the contributions of the K’ómoks Treaty Team in arriving at this pivotal point. There are six stages in the BC treaty process and K’ómoks has been involved in negotiations since 1994. The amount of work required to arrive at a ratification vote is monumental and inspiring.
March 8 will be a hugely important milestone for the K’ómoks community as a day when members come together to determine their future. This is a historic and self-determined process for the Nation, and we stand united as allies, partners and friends, ready to walk together down whichever path is chosen by the K’ómoks people.
“This process is a testament to the self-determination of the K’ómoks First Nation. We stand ready to engage collaboratively with K’ómoks, respecting the varied perspectives of its members, and we commit to being a supportive partner, no matter the path chosen,” said CVRD Chair Will Cole-Hamilton, with Mayors Bob Wells, Nicole Minions and Vickey Brown.
Background:
K'ómoks traditional territory spans the Comox Valley in the central eastern part of Vancouver Island, extending into Johnstone Strait. The K’ómoks Nation has approximately 350 members, primarily located in the Comox Valley.
Modern treaties are an important part of advancing reconciliation, righting past wrongs and empowering First Nations self-government. Treaties create certainty for everyone in a region, while supporting partnerships, economic development and the social well-being of communities.
For more information about the K’ómoks Treaty visit: https://engage.gov.bc.ca/KomoksTreaty.
Media Contacts:
Will Cole-Hamilton
Board Chair, Comox Valley Regional District
778-992-0102
Bob Wells
Mayor, City of Courtenay
mayor@courtenay.ca
250-207-0778
Nicole Minions
Mayor, Town of Comox
nminions@comox.ca
250-339-2202
Vickey Brown
Mayor, Village of Cumberland
mayor.brown@cumberland.ca
250-218-0321