Bonaparte First Nation
In honour and recognition of the leadership of the Bonaparte First Nation, this information was prepared not only to show the strength of the people but also to give thanks to each of the individuals who have represented the community throughout the years.
Strength From Community
Traditional Leadership
Kukpi7 is the Secwépemc word traditionally used for Chief.
The role of the Kukpi7 was to work for the people and help ensure that the lands, resources, and well-being of the community were protected for future generations. A Kukpi7 did not stand above the people, but walked beside them.
Community members also had an important role in leadership. They were responsible for sharing their concerns, interests, and guidance with the Kukpi7. The strength of a Kukpi7 came from the strength, trust, and support of the community.
Secwépemc communities were organized through family groupings, and within each family were individuals who demonstrated leadership in different areas. These individuals were respected and trusted for their knowledge, experience, and abilities. They were often considered the “Good People” who took part in discussions and decision-making and then carried that information back to their families.
Today, these leadership roles are reflected in the work of the Tk̓wem7íple7 (Councillors). Tk̓wem7íple7 represent the interests of the people, provide advice, and help make decisions on behalf of the Nation. They are recognized for their knowledge, skills, relationships, and ability to support the community.
The Kukpi7 and Tk̓wem7íple7 work together. The Kukpi7 cannot lead effectively without considering the voices and interests of the people, and the strength of leadership is closely connected to the strength and participation of the community.
Continue to Remember
Our Leadership
Historically, Bonaparte First Nation selected its leaders according to traditional practices. On August 6, 1952, under Order in Council PC 3692, the Nation was placed under the election provisions of Section 74 of the Indian Act.
A significant change came in December 2024, when Bonaparte First Nation members ratified a new Election Code. This marked an important step in strengthening the Nation’s own governance and establishing a community-based process for the selection of Chief and Council.
While leadership structures have changed over time, the importance of family, community, culture, and traditional values continues to be central to St̓uxwtéwsemc.
Over the years, the roles and responsibilities of Chief and Council have also evolved considerably. With the establishment of the Band Office in the 1970s, leadership assumed greater responsibility for matters within the community that had previously involved the Indian Agent. Today, Chief and Council work on community priorities while also engaging with governments, agencies, organizations, and corporations on matters affecting Bonaparte First Nation.
Leadership continues to evolve alongside the needs and priorities of the community.
The strength of St̓uxwtéwsemc is also reflected in its people. Community members continue to represent Bonaparte First Nation through sports, education, rodeo, culture, traditions, and the sharing of knowledge and history.
The accomplishments and contributions of our children, youth, adults, and Elders are part of the story of our community — past, present, and future.
Let us continue to remember, honour, and build upon those who came before us.
Kukwstsétsemc.
St̓uxwtéwsemc Representatives: Past and Present
Honouring Those Who Have Served
These are the people who have served St̓uxwtéws in leadership. They are listed by last name as a way to recognize the families they come from and to preserve their names for future generations.
Over the years, St̓uxwtéwsemc has had many individuals who have demonstrated their commitment to the community through their years of service. Their time in office contributes to the continuity, history, and collective memory of Bonaparte First Nation and has helped provide a foundation for the Nation’s continued growth and success.
Serving as Kukpi7 or Tk̓wem7íple7 is not an easy responsibility. Once a person is selected to serve as a leader, their time and commitment become closely tied to the community and the people they serve.
The immediate families of these leaders — their spouses, children, grandchildren, and extended family — also deserve recognition for the support and sacrifices they have made throughout those years of service.
This list therefore honours not only the leaders themselves, but also the families who stood beside them and supported them in carrying out their responsibilities to St̓uxwtéws.
Kukwstsétsemc to all who have served, and to the families who supported them.
*Indicates that the individual is deceased
- Allen, Jenny
- Antoine, Archie
- Antoine, Chester Joseph
- Antoine, Dave
- Antoine, Frank
- Antoine, Neal
- Antoine, Tracy
- Antoine, Wanda Rose
- Antoine, Wilbur William Leroy
- Basil, Cara
- Basil, Nelson*
- Basil, Saul McKenzie*
- Basil, Tommy Francis*
- Basil, Tony*
- Billy, Cherlyn*
- Billy, Kristopher
- Billy, Richard
- Billy-Minnabarriet, Verna
- Billy, Wilbur Ross
- Brown, Tammy Rose
- Day, Ryan
- Dick, Basil*
- Etienne, Gerald Francis
- Etienne, Jim*
- Gaspard, Johnny
- Gaspard, Percy
- Gaspard, Sandra*
- Herbert, Tracy
- Johnson, Shannon
- Minnabarriet, Nina
- Morgan, Arthur Douglas
- Morgan, Dean
- Morgan, Dianne
- Morgan, Felix*
- Morgan, Felix Terry Jr.*
- Morgan, Johnny*
- Morgan, Matilda
- Morgan, Merle*
- Morgan, Valerie Dale*
- Perry, David*
- Perry, Della*
- Perry, Frank*
- Pierro, Brad
- Pierro, Herbert Johnny*
- Pierro, Joanne Melina
- Pierro, Johnny*
- Pinchbeck, Andy*
- Porter, Billy*
- Porter, Jimmy*
- Porter, Leo
- Porter, Mary*
- Porter, Randy
- Porter, Roger*
- Porter, Terry
- Retasket, Mike
- Stewart-Perry, Ace
- Stewart-Michel, Kim
- Van Stone, Gary
- William, Antoine*
- William, Bert
- William, Dave Kenneth
- William, Earl
- William, Edward*
- William, Gerald Gordon
- William, Howard Lee
- William, Nelson Sr.*
- Zabotel, Anastasia*
- Zabotel, Joe Vance*
- Zabotel, William*
- Zabotel, William Keith