that is currently active in British Columbia.

The communities of the Chilcotin are gravely concerned about the impact that title land negotiations between the Tsilhqot'in Nation, the Government of Canada, and the Province of British Columbia may have on non-Tsilhqot'in residents, who are currently being left out of the discussion. The results of these talks will impact our homes and livelihoods, our children and grandchildren, and generations to come.

While we remain in favour of reconciliation and have long-standing, positive relationships with many First Nations groups, we are appalled at the lack of transparency and inclusiveness with respect to negotiations that could adversely impact our entire existence.

We recognize acutely that now is not the time for a lengthy debate as our province, our nation, and our globe face much larger humanitarian challenges ahead. Additionally, the Tsilhqot'in National Government has declared a State of Emergency to deal with this health crisis. lt is with this in mind that we appeal to you and all levels of government to reassure our communities that these life-altering negotiations will cease to take place until the COVID-L9 pandemic has been dealt with and normalcy has returned. Nobody at this critical time should have to bear the extra burden of fear, helplessness and uncertainty being created by these secret negotiations.

We request a written response ensuring us that negotiations will be put on hold until a reasonable and fair opportunity arises to continue this critical discussion, and that our request for a seat at the table will be addressed. Sincerely, aw Petrus

President West Chilcotin Tourism Association Box3377

Anahim Lake, BC VOL 1C0 250-742-2077

CC: MLA , Leader of the Official Opposition (BC) MP Andrew Scheer, Leader of the Official Opposition (Canada) Honourable Chrystia Freeland, Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs (Canada) Honourable , Minister of Tourism (BC) MLA Donna Barnett, Cariboo-Chilcotin MP Todd Doherty, Cariboo-Prince George MLA , Cariboo North MLA Jackie Tegart, Fraser-Nicola Margo Wagner, Chair, Cariboo Regional District Gerald Kirby, Director Area J, Cariboo Regional District Lynda Price, Chief, Ulkatcho First Nation Keith Henry, CEO, Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada Marsha Walden, CEO, Destination British Columbia Walt Judas, CEO, Tourism Industry Association of BC Amy Thacker, CEO, Cariboo Chilcotin Coast Tourism Association Walt Cobb, Mayor, City of Williams Lake Peter Coleman, President & CEO, National Citizens Coalition Val Litwin, CEO, British Columbia Chamber of Commerce Duff Conacher, Director, Democracy Watch (Canada) Tom Hermance, President, Bella Coola Valley Tourism Anahim Lake Community Association Nimpo Lake Community Association Tatla Lake Area Community Association Alexis Creek Community Association Puntzi Lake Community Association Anahim Round Table Stakeholders West Chilcotin Tourism Association Board of Directors