The BC Craft Farmers Co-op was honoured to be invited onto the traditional, unceded territory of the Syilx Okanagan Peoples to participate in the 1st annual Indigenous Cannabis Harvest Gathering over the weekend.
Hosted by the Syilx Cannabis Coalition, Indigenous community leaders, cannabis farmers, processors, retailers and invited guests responded to the Government of Canada’s invitation to provide feedback on the effectiveness of the Cannabis Act. Health Canada has established a dedicated consultation process for Indigenous Peoples with an interest in cannabis legalization.
The Coalition delivered a policy resolution proposing revisions to the federal Cannabis Act that respect, support and protect the autonomy of Indigenous Peoples. The Resolution was presented to Health Canada and published on the Gathering website here.
In addition to responding to the federal request for feedback regarding the Act, Gathering participants celebrated the annual harvest, shared stories about the medicinal benefits of cannabis, and honoured policies of Indigenous governments and Band Councils. A full summary of discussions and proposed next steps will be posted on the Gathering website in the coming weeks.
Read about the Gathering in the news:
- Global News: “There’s a lot to talk about: Indigenous gathering to discuss Cannabis Act in Vernon, B.C.”
- Castanet: “Syilx Cannabis Coalition wants freedom from Feds”
- Okanagan Edge: “Pot coalition wants autonomy”
- Vernon Matters: “Cannabis harvest gathering in North Okanagan”