Renowned Indigenous rights advocate and former Kitselas Chief Councillor Sm’oogyet Satsan, also known as Mel Bevan, has passed away.
Bevan also served as councillor, Band Manager, and Chief Treaty Negotiator for the Nation during a political career spanning six decades.
He was also key to the founding of numerous Indigenous-focused organizations in the Northwest, including this radio station.
Over the years, Bevan has also helped to develop multiple legal centres in the region, and fought for more Indigenous housing.
On the national scale, he helped to create the First Nations Fiscal Management Act and establish the Centre for First Nations Governance.
In 2021, he authored the book “Silent Voices: Rule by Policy on Canada’s Indian Reserves”, which examines the struggles to improve Indigenous lives amid colonial laws and policies.
Sm’ooyget Satsan was 82 years old.
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