Honouring Responsibilities and Opportunities: CNA at Highland Valley MLE Groundbreaking

On September 11, leadership and staff from the Citxw Nlaka’pamux Assembly (CNA) and K’en T’em Limited Partnership attended the groundbreaking ceremony for Teck’s Highland Valley Copper Mine Life Extension (MLE) Project.

The event, held at Teck’s Highland Valley operations, marked the beginning of work under the approved MLE. Chief Christine Walkem of Cook’s Ferry Indian Band and Chief Lee Spahan of Coldwater Indian Band represented the CNA, joining fellow Indigenous leaders, Premier David Eby, and Teck CEO Jonathan Price for the ceremony.

Chief Christine Walkem delivered remarks that highlighted both the responsibilities and opportunities connected to the Highland Valley. She spoke about the deep ties of nłeʔképmx to tmíxʷ, emphasizing that decisions in the territory must respect and include the voices of our people. She reflected on the importance of creating pathways for future generations, ensuring that employment, training, and business opportunities go hand in hand with stewardship and care for the land.

The CNA has been actively engaged throughout the environmental assessment process for the Mine Life Extension, ensuring that community knowledge and leadership helped shape the project. Our presence at the September 11 event reflected that same commitment: to make sure the nłeʔképmx perspective remains central as the project moves ahead.

The Highland Valley is more than a mine site, it is part of our history who we are as nłeʔképmx. CNA will continue working to ensure that opportunities for our members are realized while our responsibilities to the land, water, and future generations remain at the forefront.