Sharing who we are

This web site is constructed to invite the Canadian public to appreciate aspects of our Syilx (Okanagan) First People's culture and heritage. The web site is deliberately constructed to reflect the Okanagan oral narrative voice and utilizes the hybrid form of English known by scholars as 'Rez English' (Canada) or 'Red English' (USA), which reflects the rhythm and grammar style spoken in Syilx (Okanagan) communities.

The site will allow the public to gain access to Syilx perspectives on land and ecology, as well as to provide a view into our cultural dynamics as reflected in historical memory, to provide a view into the contemporary and traditional cosmology and epistemology of our people.

Traveling on the site

The Content of the web site features 3 main themes (language, culture, and geography) expressed as a variety of subjects to provide visitors an introductory understanding of who Syilx people are and the land that is their home. The web site calls on traditional knowledge, artistic expression and new media technology that will hopefully "capture" the spirit of Syilx culture.

Places to visit:

* Home provides information regarding the website, the project and sponsors.

* Syilx Communities highlights cultural aspects of member communities of the Okanagan Nation relating to education, business and the community events open to the general public.

* Who We Are includes information about Syilx lifestyles and includes culture, governance, language and history.

* Ecology provides information about Okanagan land terrains, the Syilx seasonal calendar, species and our interpretations of what is commonly known as the four elements and what they mean to us.

* Arts and Literature describes traditional and contemporary dance, music, theatre, visual arts, literature an new media as well as an online gallery of artworks for your convenience.

* Okanaganfirstpeoples.ca provides supplementary materials such as video clips, audio clips, printed materials and photo galleries under 'Media'

* Lessons includes activities which teach visitors of the site about the Syilx people.

We gratefully acknowledge the contribution of Canadian Heritage's 'Canada Culture Online Gateway Program'.