About

The Okanagan Indian Band (OKIB) is a syilx community located in the North Okanagan of British Columbia, near the City of Vernon. The Band is situated within the unceded territory of the syilx Okanagan people, which stretches throughout the interior of what is now known as British Columbia. OKIB is one of seven member communities of the Okanagan Nation Alliance (including Lower Similkameen Indian Band, Upper Similkameen Indian Band, Osoyoos Indian Band, Penticton Indian Band, Westbank First Nation, Upper Nicola Indian Band and the Okanagan Indian Band). 

Today, OKIB has a membership of more than 2,400 people. The Band’s lands include several reserves across the region, including Head of the Lake, Priest Valley, Six Mile Creek, Whiteman Creek, Duck Lake, Swan Lake, and Goose Lake. While many Members live within the community, others live throughout the region and beyond while remaining connected to their culture, land, and community. 

The name Okanagan Indian Band reflects the legal name recognized under federal law through the Indian Act. While the term comes from Canada’s colonial history, the Band continues to use this name in official contexts while affirming its identity as part of the syilx Okanagan people. It also serves as a reminder of the ongoing relationship between Indigenous peoples and the Crown, and the responsibilities outlined in historic agreements such as the Royal Proclamation of 1763. 

OKIB has never surrendered its lands or its responsibilities to care for them. Guided by syilx teachings and responsibilities to the land and water, the Band continues to support the well-being of its Members and future generations. 

Vision

Ensuring the future through cultural, social and economic development.

Mission

To ensure the Okanagan Indian OKIB membership will endure and prosper, we will develop strong individual, family and community self-sufficiency by balancing economic activities with cultural values and progressive social and community enhancement.

Values

We, the OKIB, are guided by the following values. All our decisions and actions will demonstrate these values. We believe that putting our values into practice will create long-term benefits for OKIB and all our members that we serve.

1. Tmixw

Culture and Title and Rights

2. Respect

Valuing all opinions and input, being courteous and polite.

3. Trust

Maintaining and building harmony in respectful relationships.

4. Transparency

Complete, straightforward, and open communications.

5. Accountability

Acknowledgment and assumption of personal and collective responsibility for, and commitment to actions and decisions related to governance, bylaws, policies and programs.

6. Integrity

Good faith and honesty, consistency with value and principles.

7. Ethical

Fair and just.

8. Engagement

Ensure opportunities for membership involvement. 

9. Consensus

Once a decision is made, unity in voice and action.

10. Results

Effective and efficient decision making and implementation. 

11. Courage

The wisdom to see an opportunity and the courage to follow through.