It has been revealed that a popular park in southwestern British Columbia will ban non-indigenous visitors on two more occasions in 2025.Joffre Lakes Park was initially closed to the public between April 25 and May 16 to give First Nations time to "connect with the land."In a joint statement, Líl̓wat and N’Quatqua Nations explained that "Reconnection Periods" have been scheduled for June 13 to 27, and August 22 to October 23."Community members are getting to utilize areas where they were previously removed or denied access," leaders said. "This reconnection is integral to the well-being of the two Nations' community members as they look for traditional methods to help cope with grief, addictions, suicide, and mental health."They added that during those times, "a number of cultural practices will take place, such as hunting, fishing, harvesting medicines, and engaging in spiritual activities, which need to be practiced without the presence of park visitors.".According to Líl̓wat Nation Director of Title & Rights Casey Gonzalez, the "Reconnection Periods" have demonstrated "tangible differences" since their implementation in 2018."We are noticing the Whiskey Jacks are becoming less conditioned to approach people for food, and the Pikas are being seen in greater numbers without dogs visiting the park," she said.Líl̓wat Nation Political Chief Kúkwpi7 Skalúlmecw Dean Nelson added that it was First Nations' responsibility to "assert our inherent rights" to "protect the land," arguing that "it's been overused for too long by too many people."Joffre Lakes Park is among the most visited in the province, with attendance peaking in 2019 at 196,300 people..Not everyone has been thrilled by the move to limit access to the park. Political commentator and former BC United candidate Caroline Elliott, for example, pointed out that it could be the beginning of a slippery slope..Popular BC park closed to public to give First Nations time to 'connect with the land'."The Joffre Lakes closure was done on the basis of the park being in the Nation's traditional territory, where Title has been asserted, but not established in the courts," Elliott explained."So for now in a place where the mere assertion of Title confers the right to prohibit public access to public spaces, then we all need to be aware that over 100% of BC's landmass is claimed as un-ceded traditional territory by one or more of the province's 100+ indigenous groups."She called the move "divisive," and warned that it "sets a terrible precedent," opening the doors for attempts to close other public lands.
