Mayor Walter Despot; Mr Alex Atamanko, MP for the Southern Interior; Chief Joe Dennis, Lower, Similkameen Indian Band; Don Ashton and Joe Nitsch from the Regional District of Okanagan:

Reconciliation is of major importance to me and the Red Bridge is a symbol for the changing times we are in - the need to break down social barriers and to build bridges. Aboriginal people have faced the isolation of Indian Reserves, conversion from their traditional ways, assimilation from Federal Government policy and economic marginalization. We now are coming into a time when we all recognize a need for reconciliation, a time to turn the page on the past and begin to look to the future for positive solutions to present challenges.

I like the red colour, it’s a symbol of the red nation and of the east tradition that brings the spring and renewed life. I like to fact that this Red Bridge is covered, protected from the elements to foster a cool and stable environment inside. I like the fact that the bridge was once used for the railway, and today is still used for modern conveyances like cars and people.

Congratulations to Keremeos and the Similkameen Band for this celebration. It really symbolizes exactly what this whole year is about - a celebration of our common history, our common locality and our common aspirations for a brighter future for all. Thank you.

LOCATION:1401 Rockland Avenue
Victoria, British Columbia
Canada V8S 1V9

PHONE:(250) 387-2080

FAX:(250) 387-2078

EMAIL:ghinfo@gov.bc.ca

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