The ʔaq̓am community is advising band members to take extra precautions when travelling to the United States (U.S.), citing reports of increased scrutiny towards Indigenous travellers at the border.
In a notice posted Friday, Jan. 30, ʔaq̓am says there have been reports of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers and the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) not recognizing Indigenous-specific documentation.
The advisory notes that while the Jay Treaty affirms the right of Indigenous Peoples to freely cross the border, they say enforcement and interpretation can vary by officer, and entry into the United States remains at the discretion of U.S. authorities.
Members are being encouraged to carry all available identification, including passports, status cards, and band-issued documentation, and to inform a family member or friend of their travel plans.
The community is also asking members to report any concerning incidents at the border to administration.
ʔaq̓am says assistance is available for members needing help with identification applications, including passports, status cards, and driver’s licences.
For assistance, members can contact the office at reception@aqam.net or 1-250-426-5717.
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