Aaron Hemens

LAND BACK: Osoyoos Indian Band reclaims sacred salmon fishing site
The Osoyoos Indian Band is celebrating the return of an important piece of land which…

Education project brings syilx teachings into Okanagan classrooms
When European settlement began in syilx homelands more than 150 years ago, the relationship between…

iN PHOTOS: After a century of damage, Okanagan nation caretakers restoring Trout Creek
During the eighth annual syilx siw?k? (Water) Forum, attendees visited a local creek which is…

New harm-reduction program in Kelowna focused on cultural wellness
A new harm-reduction program in syilx homelands aims to create culturally-safe care for Indigenous people…

Boutique adds Indigenous representation to Kelowna’s downtown
In the wake of immense grief, Lisa Luscombe decided life was too short not to…

Caretakers say it’s a crucial time to protect Okanagan Lake, ‘heart’ of syilx homelands
Located in the “heart” of syilx homelands, Okanagan Lake is a lifeline for the people,…

Documentary series explores Okanagan couple’s journey to decolonize wellness
An Indigenous couple on syilx homelands has completed a documentary series that details their wellness…

iN PHOTOS: Known for its healing ‘spots,’ syilx people are protecting this South Okanagan lake
cewel’na Leon Louis of the Lower Similkameen Indian Band unlocks the gate that keeps trespassers…

In new Westbank exhibit, artists answer the question ‘what does it mean to be syilx?’
A new exhibit which looks at syilx identity through the artwork and writings of community…

Paying it forward at the Similkameen powwow
A couple of years ago, after a long drive home from the Neskonlith Powwow in…

INDIGENOUS GUARDIANS: Meet Penticton band’s two-man crew looking out for the land
Since its inception in 2016, the Penticton Indian Band’s (PIB) Guardian Program has evolved from…

At 19 years old, syilx Coyote Cruises manager uplifts young leaders
On any given summer day, you can find a seemingly-endless stream of people trickling down…

Kelowna Museums offers introductory nsyilxc?n course for all learners
In an effort to help preserve nsyilxc?n, the language spoken by syilx people, and to…

iN PHOTOS: Two-Spirit artist builds safer spaces in Okanagan for queer youth
A Two-Spirit artist and storyteller is using stage performance and social media to inspire and…

iN PHOTOS: ‘It’s living, it’s breathing’: Outdoor tours of syilx cultural garden in high demand
Tours of a busy cultural garden in syilx homelands are increasing awareness about syilx plants,…