Media Resources

Who We Are

Llenllenéy’ten (High Bar) First Nation is a member of the Secwepémc Nation, one of 17 Secwepémc communities whose territories span the interior of British Columbia. The Nation’s territory sits within the Fraser Canyon and Cariboo region. Llenllenéy’ten people have lived on, cared for, and governed these lands since time immemorial. That relationship to land, water, and territory is not historical. It is present and ongoing.

 

The Nation is governed by Kúkpi7 (Chief) Jamie Fletcher and Council, who serve as the elected Leadership and primary voice of Llenllenéy’ten on all matters of governance, territory, and public affairs. Kúkpi7 is the designated spokesperson for the Nation.

 

Land and Territory

Llenllenéy’ten (High Bar) First Nation holds both reserve lands and a broader traditional territory. These are distinct but related.

 

Reserve lands are federally recognized lands held by the Crown for the use and benefit of the Nation. The Nation’s current reserve lands are located along the Fraser River. Because portions of those lands lack access to essential infrastructure, including electricity and potable water, the Nation is actively pursuing Additions to Reserve and land acquisitions to establish a permanent community at Clinton, B.C.

 

Traditional territory extends well beyond reserve boundaries and reflects the full scope of Secwepémc land stewardship, use, and governance that predates colonization. This territory is not defined by federal land registry. It is defined by history, culture, and the Nation’s ongoing presence and responsibility.

 

Media and external communicators are asked to distinguish between reserve lands and traditional territory, and to avoid language that implies the Nation lacks land or territorial standing. Both forms of land relationship are real and legally and culturally significant.

 

Governance

Llenllenéy’ten (High Bar) First Nation is a self-governing Nation. Elected Leadership, Kúkpi7 and Council, are accountable to the Nation’s citizens and govern in accordance with Secwepémc values and the Nation’s own laws and policies.

 

In 2025, the Nation achieved Financial Management System (FMS) Certification from the First Nations Financial Management Board, the highest level of financial certification available based on internationally recognized standards. This reflects the Nation’s commitment to transparent, accountable governance.

 

The Nation’s governance interests and activities include forestry, mining, road construction, and emerging green energy opportunities, as well as active pursuit of infrastructure development to support the return and resettlement of citizens.

 

Community

Llenllenéy’ten citizens live across British Columbia, the Northwest Territories, the Yukon, and the United States. The largest concentration of citizens is in the Clinton area, where the Nation is building a community with the housing, health, and administrative infrastructure needed to bring people home.

 

Cultural vitality is central to the Nation’s identity. The Secwepemctsín language and Secwepémc traditions are actively maintained and celebrated. Community events, cultural programming, and intergenerational knowledge-sharing are priorities of the Nation’s governance.

 

Language Note for Media

The Nation’s full name is Llenllenéy’ten (High Bar) First Nation. On first reference, use the full name. On subsequent references, Llenllenéy’ten First Nation or HBFN are acceptable. High Bar First Nation alone omits the Secwepemctsín name and is not preferred.

 

The title for the elected Chief is Kúkpi7. The title for elected Councillors is Tkwenem7íle7m. These Secwepemctsín titles are used in place of English equivalents in all official communications.

 

When referencing the Nation’s land and relationship to territory, avoid phrases that imply absence or lack. The Nation has land. The Nation has territory. Accurate language respects both the legal record and Secwepémc history.