Headline: Skwlāx te Secwépemcúl̓ecw First Nation Commemorates Resilience One Year After Bush Creek Wildfire
In a remarkable display of strength and unity, the Skwlāx te Secwépemcúl̓ecw First Nation is coming together to mark one year since the devastating Bush Creek wildfire swept through British Columbia’s Shuswap region. Chief Kúkpi7 James Tomma recounts the harrowing experience of fleeing their homes, leaving everything behind. He vividly recalls the struggles faced by his community members as they grappled with the loss of property and the upheaval of their lives in the wake of the destructive blaze.
“I never thought it would happen to us, but when reality struck, we had to start rebuilding from the ground up. It’s been a journey filled with emotions that will stay with me forever,” Tomma shared, reflecting on the resilience displayed by his community in the face of adversity.
The wildfire, which raged for nearly two months from mid-July to September 2023, caused widespread devastation, destroying over 130 properties and partially damaging 37 others. Around 3,500 residents were forced to evacuate, with insured damages amounting to over $720 million, according to the Insurance Bureau of Canada.
To honor the courage and determination of those affected by the fire, the Skwlāx te Secwépemcúl̓ecw First Nation is hosting a commemorative event in Chase, B.C. The gathering will feature speeches, uplifting songs, and a community walk, culminating in a shared meal to celebrate the spirit of rebuilding that has endured in the face of adversity.
As the community continues to rebuild, Chief Tomma shared that three new subdivisions are being constructed to replace the homes lost in the blaze. With 70 percent of the First Nation returning to their lands, Tomma is optimistic about the future, anticipating a full return by December once the final subdivision is completed.
Reflecting on the collaborative efforts during the wildfire response, Sean Coubrough, the regional fire chief of the Columbia-Shuswap Regional District, highlighted the unity shown by local fire departments in protecting communities under threat. He emphasized the importance of communities coming together in times of crisis to support one another.
Amidst the chaos of the wildfire, resident Terri Burris chose to stay behind, braving the uncertainty to help her neighbors and
In a remarkable display of strength and unity, the Skwlāx te Secwépemcúl̓ecw First Nation is coming together to mark one year since the devastating Bush Creek wildfire swept through British Columbia’s Shuswap region. Chief Kúkpi7 James Tomma recounts the harrowing experience of fleeing their homes, leaving everything behind. He vividly recalls the struggles faced by his community members as they grappled with the loss of property and the upheaval of their lives in the wake of the destructive blaze.
“I never thought it would happen to us, but when reality struck, we had to start rebuilding from the ground up. It’s been a journey filled with emotions that will stay with me forever,” Tomma shared, reflecting on the resilience displayed by his community in the face of adversity.
The wildfire, which raged for nearly two months from mid-July to September 2023, caused widespread devastation, destroying over 130 properties and partially damaging 37 others. Around 3,500 residents were forced to evacuate, with insured damages amounting to over $720 million, according to the Insurance Bureau of Canada.
To honor the courage and determination of those affected by the fire, the Skwlāx te Secwépemcúl̓ecw First Nation is hosting a commemorative event in Chase, B.C. The gathering will feature speeches, uplifting songs, and a community walk, culminating in a shared meal to celebrate the spirit of rebuilding that has endured in the face of adversity.
As the community continues to rebuild, Chief Tomma shared that three new subdivisions are being constructed to replace the homes lost in the blaze. With 70 percent of the First Nation returning to their lands, Tomma is optimistic about the future, anticipating a full return by December once the final subdivision is completed.
Reflecting on the collaborative efforts during the wildfire response, Sean Coubrough, the regional fire chief of the Columbia-Shuswap Regional District, highlighted the unity shown by local fire departments in protecting communities under threat. He emphasized the importance of communities coming together in times of crisis to support one another.
Amidst the chaos of the wildfire, resident Terri Burris chose to stay behind, braving the uncertainty to help her neighbors and
