Sophie Gray
Local Journalism Initiative
Osoyoos Indian Band’s long standing chief has been elected as tribal chair and spokesperson of the Okanagan Nation Alliance.
Chief Clarence Louie has been involved with the Okanagan Nation Alliance (ONA) Chiefs Executive Council for 30 years before this week’s election, dealing with issues related to fishing, hunting, and territory. He was elected by the Executive council to assume the position of tribal chair.
“It’s a great honour of course, anytime your peers elect you to be their voice,” said Louie about the new position.
Louie’s predecessor is Grand Chief Stewart Phillip, who held the position for almost 16 years. Louie said he was able to learn from Phillip in the past.
“He’s always given me advice, and will continue to do so,” said Louie.
Louie has served as chief of the Osoyoos Indian Band for the last 34 years. He is the longest standing chief among the Okanagan/Syilx nation and brings a great deal of knowledge and experience to the role, according to a press release by the ONA.
His first order of business will be to continue the work of the ONA Chief’s Executive Council, looking into the structure of the organization.
“It’s getting into the weeds of how the organization is run now and what contracts are out there, and looking at the organizational structure,” Louie said.
Louie’s role will involve being the spokesperson for the ONA and chairing meetings of the Chief’s Executive Council, which makes decisions about territory disputes, hunting and fishing rights, and contracts with outside organizations.
The council represents the Syilx Okanagan Nation members in such decisions. Their mandate, according to the press release about Louie’s election, is to protect, advance and defend Syilx Okanagan Nation’s collective rights and title.
