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First Nations blockade continues at Hwy. 1 Sicamous bridge, over workers' rights

On May 12, the Splatsin First Nation and Splatsin Development Corporation began a blockade using dump trucks to obstruct both entrances of the new bridge project along Highway 1 near Sicamous, British Columbia.
The blockade was launched in response to ongoing exclusion and unfulfilled promises by the two construction firms contracted for the project, who have been accused of neglecting to involve Indigenous workers and businesses in this government-backed initiative.
The protest highlights concerns that Aecon and Emil Anderson sideline Indigenous partners to cut costs, offering only short-term work despite public commitments to Indigenous participation within Secwepemc territory.
Splatsin Kukpi7 Mike Christian described the blockades as their primary means to draw attention to their concerns, while CEO Grahame Go expressed disappointment that the project has resulted in only a short-term opportunity—approximately three months—for meaningful Indigenous involvement.
The Ministry of Transportation has committed to collaborating with involved stakeholders to promptly address the raised concerns, while other Secwepemc Bands have shown their support, expressing hope that increased focus on the matter will result in fair and inclusive outcomes for Indigenous communities.

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