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Secwepemc Territory, International Human Rights Day, December 10th, 2002 - On international human rights day as the world commemorates the signing of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the Nobel Peace Prize is awarded, the Secwepemc people launch an international appeal to former U.S. President Jimmy Carter, this years winner of the Nobel Peace Prize. Today the Secwepemc also commemorate the first anniversary of the destruction of a house built by the Neskonlith community at Skwelkwek’welt that was home to a young family and the destrauction of the scared sweatlodges.

In their letter they outline grave human rights violations against Secwepemc people and the strong positions of their ancestors. One of their own Secwepemc Chiefs George Manuel has twice been nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize.

Inspired by his vision of a Fourth World Movement for recognition for indigenous rights and the contribution indigenous peoples can make to sustainable development the Secwepemc continue to maintain their rights all the way from the local to the international level.

In their letter to Nobel Peace Prize Laureate Carter they state: We realize many non-Natives consider our problems a domestic issue to be dealt with by the Governments of Canada and British Columbia; however, we will never receive a just and honorable settlement to the outstanding land issue without international pressure placed on Canada.

The Secwepemc will continue to call upon Nobel peace Prize Laureates and the international community to monitor and protect their indigenous and human rights.