For immediate release: June 25, 2008

SD 71 Trustees voted 5- 2 to move the Nala’atsi Program out of the Wachiay Friendship Centre at their June 24 meeting.

“We are disappointed that the majority of the Board has disregarded the recommendation from the K’omoks First Nation for further consideration of the issue,” says Wachiay Executive Director Wedlidi Speck. “The K’omoks request was supported by Wachiay, MIKI’SIW Metis Association and many Aboriginal elders and families.”

Wachiay representatives were in attendance at the June 24 meeting. As well as being disappointed with the decision, they found some Trustees comments to be patronizing and culturally insensitive.

Also at the meeting, Wachiay enquired when it could expect replies to previous letters to the Board, and as a result of the decision to move Nala’atsi, when discussions would take place regarding a new relationship between Wachiay & Nala’atsi.

For questions or additional comment, please contact:

Wedlidi Speck
phone: 338-7793