B.C. officials and community leaders have strongly criticized a gathering of white supremacists on the Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc reserve near Kamloops. Kúkpi7 (Chief) Rosanne Casimir informed CBC News that the nation had received reports of approximately 20 to 30 men wearing white masks and black caps, carrying flags on the reserve.
According to a news release by Casimir, individuals affiliated with Second Sons Canada, a group associated with white supremacist beliefs, were observed within their community. Casimir emphasized that the presence of white supremacists will not instill fear in the survivors and intergenerational survivors who have long endured fear.
Video footage circulating on social media has been verified by CBC News to show members of Second Sons Canada on the Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc reserve. The reserve’s security asked the men to disperse, but they only left after the RCMP intervened.
RCMP Superintendent Jeff Pelley described the incident as a clear attempt to intimidate, provoke fear, and sow division, emphasizing that such behavior will not be tolerated. The RCMP is actively investigating the matter and encourages anyone with information to come forward.
Prime Minister Mark Carney condemned the gathering, labeling it as abhorrent and emphasizing the need to confront the dark legacy of the residential school system. NDP Leader David Eby and B.C. Conservative Party’s interim leader Lorne Doerkson also denounced the event, expressing solidarity with the Tk’emlúps First Nation.
Despite the incident, Chief Casimir affirmed that the nation’s events for Truth and Reconciliation Day on Sept. 30 will proceed as planned. She reiterated the community’s commitment to moving forward with reconciliation efforts and urged vigilance against racism and discrimination.
Casimir highlighted the importance of community safety and encouraged members to remain vigilant and report any concerning incidents. She underscored the ongoing significance of Truth and Reconciliation work in the face of such challenges.
Efforts to reach out to Second Sons Canada for comment were unsuccessful at the time of publication.
If you or someone you know needs support related to residential school experiences, a national crisis line is available at 1-866-925-4419. Mental health counseling and crisis support are also accessible through the Hope for Wellness hotline at 1-855-242-3310 or online chat.
