The T鈥橲ou-ke First Nation is showing the way for aboriginal and non-aboriginal communities in B.C., embracing both new technologies and traditional values.
Perched on the shore of Sooke Basin, the 250-person First Nation is hemmed in by residential areas and a highway, and seems to have few resources to build a future for its children. But instead of stagnating, the band has made itself a leader in solar energy, and is pushing for a $750-million wind-power project with TimberWest Forest Corp.
The ball started rolling when T鈥橲ou-ke sat down as a community to create a common vision. Members agreed they had four priorities: energy security, food security, cultural renaissance and economic self-sufficiency.
Its conversion to solar power has been so successful that its program has been the model for Colwood, the Capital Regional District and other First Nations in B.C.; it was the first aboriginal community in the world to be designated a solar community.
At the same time, T鈥橲ou-ke is reviving traditional values and traditional foods. A garden and greenhouse provide are both a step toward food security and a way to save native plants. A plan for a wasabi plantation offers hope of economic stability.
Perhaps the small size of the First Nation made it easier to reach agreement on goals and put them into effect. Whatever the reason, T鈥橲ou-ke started its journey by giving everyone a voice in deciding the priorities, and everyone shares in the benefits.
This small community is teaching others about how to build a future.
