Lhatŝ’aŝʔin Memorial Day: Honouring Courage, Legacy, and Leadership

Lhatŝ’aŝʔin Memorial Day, observed each year on October 26, is a day of remembrance, honour, and reflection for the Tŝilhqot’in Nation. It marks the sacrifice of six Tŝilhqot’in War Chiefs who stood up to defend their people and lands during the Chilcotin War of 1864–1865.

For Central Chilcotin Rehabilitation Ltd. (CCR), a joint venture led by the Tŝilhqot’in people, this day holds deep significance. It is a time to remember the Chiefs’ courage, dedication to protecting their Nation, and the enduring strength that continues to guide Tŝilhqot’in leadership today.

“Lhatŝ’aŝʔin Memorial Day reminds us of the strength and leadership of those who came before us,” shared Percy Guichon, CEO of CCR and elected councillor of Tŝideldel First Nation. “Their courage continues to guide the work we do today; caring for the land, creating opportunities for our people, and ensuring that future generations carry forward the same spirit of perseverance and self-determination.”

In 2018, the Government of Canada formally exonerated the six Tŝilhqot’in Chiefs - Lhatŝ’aŝʔin, Biyil, Tellot, Tahpitt, Chayses, and ʔAhan, recognizing their defence of their homeland and acknowledging the injustice they suffered. This historic moment reaffirmed their place as leaders who stood for sovereignty, justice, and the rights of their people.

Today, Lhatŝ’aŝʔin Memorial Day continues to serve as a reminder of resilience, unity, and strength; values deeply connected to the work CCR leads across the Chilcotin. Through forest rehabilitation, job creation, and Indigenous-led stewardship, CCR continues to uphold the same principles of responsibility and respect for the land that the War Chiefs fought to protect.

More than a day of remembrance, Lhatŝ’aŝʔin Memorial Day is a call to action, to carry forward the lessons of the past, to stand together in stewardship, and to continue building a future that honours the legacy of courage and leadership that defines the Tŝilhqot’in Nation.