Taylor Joe, Merritt Secondary student and member of the Lower Nicola Indian Band, carried the Olympic flame resplendent in traditional dress.

Over 600 people were in attendance to witness the Olympic torch relay in Shulus on Saturday, Feb. 6.

Prior to the torch’s arrival a traditional feast offering bannock and salmon, a pow wow and a free skate were offered to celebrate the arrival of the flame in Lower Nicola.

Attendees were encouraged to come dressed in traditional native attire.

Also in attendance were MLA Harry Lali, MP Stockwell Day and Westside-Kelowna MLA Ben Stewart representing the Premier.

A large contingent of native protesters was also there to greet the flame.

“I told the protestors they were welcome and invited them to come eat,” says Lower Nicola Indian Band Chief Don Moses.
“We had no animosity towards them and share many of their sentiments.”

“I also said let’s put the tomahawk down for one day and celebrate the Olympics.”

Moses believes strongly in the Olympics as an event that promotes understanding and co-operation between nations.

“The Olympics is all about people getting along of all nationalities.”

“Watching the opening ceremonies made my heart happy seeing the level of participation of First-Nations.”