Penticton Indian Band members called racist slurs, physically attacked

PENTICTON (NEWS 1130) – The Penticton Indian Band calls a racist incident along the river channel “irresponsible behaviour that will only generate more anger and division.”

In a joint statement with the City of Penticton, it says the disturbing incident involved teenaged members of the Penticton Indian Band, who work with Coyote Cruises.

“These young student employees were subjected to racist slurs and a minor physical altercation by intoxicated and belligerent guests floating the river channel. The racist slurs and comments included mention of the 215 graves of children discovered at the Kamloops Residential School site.”

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“We really don’t need this kind of ugliness … these were pretty much children they engaged with,” Chief Greg Gabriel said, adding they were traumatized.

“These individuals [who made the racist remarks] were well above their age and they took it very hard, to the point where one … gave her notice that she doesn’t want to work there anymore,” Gabriel said.

The other teen still works with Coyote Cruises, but Gabriel says he has has asked to be put into a role where he doesn’t have to deal with the public.

Floating the river channel from Okanagan Lake to Skaha Lake is a popular activity in the area. Gabriel says it’s not unusual to see someone drink too much, “but this year makes it totally different because of the racism involved.”

He says this is unacceptable and can’t be tolerated.

“We already have much anger in all First Nations Communities as a result of the initial 215 graves being discovered. This type of irresponsible behavior will only generate more anger and division between communities,” he said, describing the behaviour as “belligerent.”

Penticton Mayor John Vassilaki says there is no place for racism in his city, especially against teens or children.

“Each of us must stand up and call out racism of any sort, anytime we witness it,” he said.

The case was reported to RCMP and an investigation is underway.

“Our communities will not accept racist, derogatory or hate motivated comments or actions directed to anyone in our area. These insensitive actions especially towards our youth, will not be tolerated and have been reported to the Penticton RCMP” Supt. Brian Hunter said.

Gabriel says the Penticton Indian Band has a good relationship with their neighbours, and he wants people to enjoy the area in a respectful and responsible way.

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