B.C. First Nations Issue Travel Advisories Amid U.S. Scrutiny

First Nations in British Columbia (B.C.) have issued travel advisories for their members planning to cross into the United States, citing heightened scrutiny from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The advisories stem from concerns that Indigenous travelers may face wrongful detention and harassment at the border. Diana Moffat, communications officer for the Upper Nicola Band, expressed fears that travelers could be subjected to the poor conditions of U.S. detention facilities, stating, “My fear is that they will be detained and have to face the horrific detention facilities until they can get cleared.”

Okanagan Nation Alliance among Indigenous groups issuing travel advisory to U.S. - Okanagan

The Okanagan Nation Alliance, which represents several First Nations, including the Syilx Okanagan Nation, has urged its members to exercise “extreme caution” when traveling to the U.S. due to the unpredictable nature of ICE's arrest and detention practices. This advisory was echoed by the Citxw Nlaka’pamux Assembly, which canceled its planned attendance at the Celebrating Salish Conference in Spokane, Washington, due to safety concerns.

First Nations in B.C. issue travel advisory for Canada-U.S. border crossings

The travel advisories are particularly significant given the rights afforded to Indigenous peoples under the Jay Treaty, which allows them to cross the U.S.-Canada border freely. John Alan Jack, elected chief of Huu-ay-aht First Nations, emphasized that while Indigenous people have these rights, they may not always be recognized by ICE agents. He noted, “We expect it's not always known or respected by Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents who may not be fully aware of the full suite of rights.”

First Nations in B.C. issue travel advisory for Canada-U.S. border crossings

The Assembly of First Nations has also advised members to carry valid identification, including Status Cards and passports, to mitigate potential issues at the border. Moffat highlighted the importance of having proper travel documents, stating that travelers should ensure their IDs are not expired.

First Nations in B.C. issue travel advisory for Canada-U.S. border crossings

The decision to issue travel advisories has been met with support from community leaders. Terry Teegee, regional chief of the B.C. Assembly of First Nations, noted the growing concern over the treatment of Indigenous travelers, stating, “The biggest concern is having many of our First Nations from Canada wrongfully detained in the United States.” Clarence Louie, chief of the Osoyoos Indian Band, attributed these fears to the policies of the U.S. administration, particularly under former President Donald Trump.

Okanagan Nation Alliance among Indigenous groups issuing travel advisory to U.S. - Okanagan

Madelynn Albert from the Citxw Nlaka’pamux Assembly explained that the decision to cancel their trip was made out of caution and respect for community sentiments. She stated, “We’re community-led and want to respect the wishes of the community.”

B.C. First Nations organization cancels U.S. trip amid travel concerns

The Assembly of First Nations has issued a travel advisory urging members to carry valid identification and be aware of their rights when crossing the border. The Citxw Nlaka’pamux Assembly emphasized that their decision to cancel attendance at the Celebrating Salish Conference was made after considering community feedback regarding safety concerns.

B.C. First Nations organization cancels U.S. trip amid travel concerns

• “My fear is that they will be detained and have to face the horrific detention facilities until they can get cleared,” — Diana Moffat, Communications Officer, Upper Nicola Band

First Nations in B.C. issue travel advisory for Canada-U.S. border crossings

• “This decision was not made lightly. We value opportunities to gather, learn, and strengthen relationships with our neighbors and friends,” — Citxw Nlaka’pamux Assembly Spokesperson

First Nations in B.C. issue travel advisory for Canada-U.S. border crossings

• “We expect it's not always known or respected by Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents who may not be fully aware of the full suite of rights and that's something we want our citizens to be aware of,” — John Alan Jack, Elected Chief, Huu-ay-aht First Nations

First Nations in B.C. issue travel advisory for Canada-U.S. border crossings

• “The biggest concern is having many of our First Nations from Canada wrongfully detained in the United States,” — Terry Teegee, Regional Chief, B.C. Assembly of First Nations

Okanagan Nation Alliance among Indigenous groups issuing travel advisory to U.S. - Okanagan

While many Indigenous groups have reported increased scrutiny and detainment of their members, there are no specific statistics available regarding the number of incidents. Additionally, there is a lack of comprehensive data on how many Indigenous travelers have faced issues at the border, highlighting a gap in the available information regarding the impact of ICE enforcement on First Nations individuals.

Okanagan Nation Alliance among Indigenous groups issuing travel advisory to U.S. - Okanagan