Editor:

It is with absolute regret that this letter is being sent to the media.

I am inspired by the peoples' voices in the Idle No More movement. Injustices and accountability can demanded by memberships. Let's demand rescinding of the resolution for the Coqualeetza Elders Group to be unilaterally "dissolved"; forbidden to use the name "Coqualeetza" and is "no longer affiliated to CCEC's services and program delivery" by the Coqualeetza Cultural Education Centre authority.

Elders have seriously considered ways to resolve issues in a respectful way and were still working on this particular one when a resolution dated Jan. 30, 2013, was received from the CCEC Board of Directors notifying us of the aforementioned.

Elders have been a program of Coqualeetza since 1974 with a proven record of integrity and honour and are well known across Canada and in several countries.

Our purpose is to record and document the Halq'emeylem language, history and way of life of the Sto: lo. Policy provides for continuation of the traditional role of elders as the Wisdom Keepers and providers of advice and guidance. The Terms of Reference states the importance of socializing through the weekly luncheon meetings and exchanges with other groups in the area and throughout B.C. and the United States.

We have been a valuable resource especially to alternate education students and pre-school programs since the on-going development of curricula was curtailed. We are committed to promoting and nourishing wholistic, healthy development of our people and others.

Siyamtelot (Shirley D. Leon) Agassiz