Areas of interest
Indigenous Archaeology, heritage legislation, GIS and the protection of Indigenous rights and materials.
Education
- Simon Fraser University, Archaeology, 2004
- Southern Alberta Institute of Technology, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), 2011; BCAPA Associate 2019
Introduction
Weytkp! (Hello!) I am a member of the Pelltiq’t te Secwépemc Nation and currently the Assistant Manager, Culture and Heritage of the Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc Natural Resources Department. As an Archaeologist and Geographic Information Systems analyst I work with First Nations, local communities and various levels of government. I have produced multiple GIS solutions for forestry, archaeology, land title, specific claims, First Nations use and occupancy, and biodiversity including web mapping applications. As an Archaeologist, I have conducted various archaeological assessments throughout Secwepemcúĺecw for forestry, mining, construction, residential, oil and gas, hydro and telecommunications developments.
MA Research
My research focuses on how Indigenous peoples define and identify cultural landscapes and how they can use this knowledge to implement the United Nations Declaration of the Rights of Indigenous Peoples with regards to Heritage Management within Indigenous Nations in accordance with Traditional Indigenous Law.
Part of my research will involve the teachings of stsptekwle (Secwepémc oral traditions) and how Secwepémc law guides the definition and identification of cultural landscapes by Secwepemc as a key component to managing their cultural heritage in accordance with Secwepemc law and truly implementing UNDRIP.
Other Activities
My broader research interests include new technologies, community-based research, and Aboriginal Traditional Knowledge (ATK).
