Indigenous Flags of three First Nations Unveiled at BC RCMP Headquarters

B.C.

2022-09-21 13:00 PDT

The Chiefs of the Semiahmoo, Kwantlen, and Katzie First Nations bore witness to the unveiling of their territorial flags at a special ceremony at BC RCMP Headquarters.

BC RCMP Headquarters sits on the unceded traditional territories of the three First Nations. On September 21, Chief Harley Chappell of Semiahmoo and Chief Marilyn Gabriel of Kwantlen First Nations joined the Commissioner of the RCMP, Brenda Lucki and Deputy Commissioner Dwayne McDonald of the BC RCMP in unveiling a plaque in honour of the three First Nations. The plaque was mounted on a 300 pound cedar post. Chief Grace George of the Katzie First Nation was unable to attend.

Photo of unveiling plaque

Photo of Plaque

This is more than the raising of these three very important flags, says Deputy Commissioner McDonald. It’s also a symbol of the RCMP’s commitment to strengthen relationships with our Indigenous neighbours and partners through action.

Photo of 3 First Nations Flags

RCMP Commissioner Lucki echoed that sentiment. As we approach our 150 anniversary, we are committed more than ever to advancing reconciliation and renewing relationships with Indigenous peoples.

The ceremony opened with an Indigenous prayer and the event ended with the playing of a traditional frame drum. For Indigenous people, the drum represents the universal heartbeat of Mother Earth, the universal goddess, and mother to us all.Photo of Kwantlen FN drummers

Deputy Commissioner McDonald added, While the RCMP have made strides in welcoming Indigenous peoples into our policing environment, we acknowledge that unless we see Indigenous peoples among us, working shoulder-to-shoulder, we are not experiencing the change that must occur to foster acceptance and to embrace a new, different police force in the future.

Photo of Commissioner and Deputy Commissioner beside plaque

The flags are now on permanent display in the lobby of BC RCMP.

Released by:

Cpl. Madonna Saunderson
District Advisory NCO (Media Relations)
North District
4020 5th Avenue, Prince George, BC V2M 7E7
Office: 250-561-3166
Cell: 250-301-3521

Email: madonna.saunderson@rcmp-grc.gc.ca


 

 

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