Times-Chronicle Staff
Chief Clarence Louie says what the Osoyoos Indian Band has accomplished over the years is on the shoulders of their ancestors.
Louie made this statement to the Times-Chronicle after the University of BC (UBC) recently bestowed him with an “Honorary Degree.”
He now joins others on the list such as climate change activist Greta Thunberg and Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry.
“I wish they would have given the honorary degree to the Osoyoos Indian Band; that is where my recognition truly comes from,” Louie said.
The UBC stated that since Louie’s election in December of 1984, he has “consistently emphasized economic development as a means to improve his people’s standard of living.”
“Under his direction, the band has become a multi-faceted corporation that owns and manages 11 businesses and five joint ventures, employing approximately one thousand people.”
The UBC added that Louie has demonstrated his belief that First Nations leaders have a responsibility to incorporate First Nations language and culture in all socio-economic initiatives as a means to preserve Indigenous heritage.
Louie said the public recognition comes from the business name OIB has built, going back to the early 1960s.
“Everything OIB has done and accomplished comes from a group of people. I am not the individual entrepreneur. I did not start any of the businesses or leases on my own, it is always a team effort and OIB membership who approves.”
The fact is some of the businesses and leases came to fruition before Louie’s time.
He said many past Chiefs, councils and membership built the foundation from which he and economic development staff have benefited from.
“Where we are and what we (not me) have accomplished truly is on the shoulders of our ancestors.”
