A Groundbreaking Pact
The agreement between Teck Coal and Yaq̓it ʔa·knuqⱡi ‘it First Nation signifies a monumental step towards cooperative efforts in promoting responsible mining and land stewardship in qukin ʔamakis, known to many as the Elk Valley in British Columbia.
Commitments and Collaborations
This stewardship accord outlines commitments for both entities, emphasizing the enhancement of Yaq̓it ʔa·knuqⱡi ’it’s capacity for stewardship projects that benefit the territory. It also highlights the joint efforts to advance governance and reconciliation initiatives that uphold the well-being of all ʔakanuxunik.
Moreover, ongoing engagement and relationship-building under this agreement aim to bolster the region’s economic prosperity while ensuring the preservation of the environment.
A Pledge to Uphold Values
Both Yaq̓it ʔa·knuqⱡi ‘it and Teck have pledged to sustain collaboration and engagement guided by principles of trust, respect, transparency, and meaningfulness, as stated in a recent news release by the Canadian miner.
“These agreements are an opportunity for all of us to do better by our land and our people,” Nasukin Heidi Gravelle, Nasuʔkin of Yaq̓it ʔa·knuqⱡi ‘it, remarked. “As the stewards of the land hosting Teck’s operations, we hold a duty to safeguard all living beings to secure the land’s legacy for future generations.”
Gravelle further emphasized the significance of reshaping mining practices to embark on a journey of reconciliation by prioritizing the well-being of the land and its inhabitants. She hailed Teck’s dedication to steering mining activities towards a path of virtue, offering a chance to revolutionize existing norms in the industry.
Robin Sheremeta, president of Teck’s coal business unit, also provided insights into the profound impact of the agreements, acknowledging the learnings from Yaq̓it ʔa·knuqⱡi ‘it and their vision for the future. He stressed the commitment to collaborate on the Nation’s socio-economic, stewardship, and cultural imperatives while endorsing responsible resource development in the region for the long haul.
